Reduction of Negative Impact of Oil Spills from the Franken Shipwreck

Summary

The project investigated the shipwreck of the German tanker Franken – sunken in World War II in the Gdańsk Bay – with a research expedition. Together with experts from the British Ministry of Defence, our partner created a risk assessment based on the level of corrosion and the estimated amount of fuel contained. Based on this, one action plan was made to secure the Franken in particular, and one as a blueprint for shipwrecks at the Polish coast in general.

The project also made a big effort to raise awareness for the issue of oil spills from the wrecks and potential negative environmental and economic consequences, and to obtain support to implement the prepared plan of action through lobbying and communication activities. 56,000 people signed a petition to the government to act. Also, an audit was carried out by the Supreme Audit Office to diagnose legal loopholes in Polish law, and this resulted in recognition up on EU level.