Implementation of the LOS Convention at regional level:European Community competence in regulating safety and environmental aspects of shipping

At present the European Community is in the process of developing a legislative framework for regulating safety and environmental aspects of shipping activities. This article will examine the growing role of Community law on environmental aspects of shipping activities and the consequences thereof for the relationship between Community law and international law as laid down in the LOS Convention and the IMO Conventions. Three points are addressed: the scope of the internal competences of the Community with respect to safety and environmental aspects of shipping activities; the scope of external powers in this area; and the possible effect that the development of Community law may have for the implementation and enforcement of international law. The article will primarily focus on the competences of the Community with regard to these treaties rather than with regard to the LOS Convention itself. -from Authors