Tanker pollution 'to become illegal' in the EU

The EU is expected to pass legislation that makes the pollution of water by tankers a criminal offence, it has been reported.

New measures are due to be voted upon in the parliament, which are designed to discourage tankers from polluting the seas upon which they sail.

It also aims to outline definitions of minor and serious offences and what levels of pollution will constitute criminal behaviour.

Though minor incidences would not result in legal action, consequences and regulations surrounding smaller emissions of pollution will be enforced as part of the plans, it was revealed.

In related news, pollution brought about by the spilling of 500-tonnes of oil just off the coast of Ireland this week appears as though it is improving, according to the Irish Coastguard.

It stated that winds are directing it away from the shoreline and as a result, it appears to be breaking up naturally, the Irish Times reports.