Urgent Action Needed to Stabilize Adrift LNG Tanker
Brussels – The WWF Mediterranean Marine Initiative has issued a critical appeal for immediate action regarding the Arctic Metagaz, a liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker that has been adrift in the Mediterranean without a crew for weeks. The vessel, part of Russia’s shadow fleet, is carrying significant amounts of LNG and diesel, raising concerns about potential catastrophic consequences if an accident occurs. The organization emphasizes that Mediterranean countries and the European Union must act swiftly to prevent a disaster.
Concerns Over Environmental and Economic Risks
The Arctic Metagaz has been drifting towards the Libyan coast since its crew abandoned ship following a series of explosions during a drone attack on March 3. The circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear, with Russia blaming Ukraine, while Kyiv has not responded to the allegations. The tanker is currently in a precarious state, carrying between 700 and 900 tonnes of diesel and large volumes of LNG, which could lead to severe environmental and economic repercussions if not addressed promptly.
Isabella Pratesi, head of the Conservation Department at WWF, highlighted the critical nature of the area where the tanker is drifting. This region is known for its rich biodiversity, housing protected species and vital habitats, as well as serving as strategic migration routes for marine wildlife. The semi-enclosed nature of the Mediterranean exacerbates the situation, as it limits water circulation and slows ecosystem recovery. A leak or explosion could result in extensive marine and atmospheric pollution, creating lethal clouds of cryogenic gas that threaten marine life, igniting fires, and causing long-term contamination of water and seabeds. Additionally, the economic impact could be severe, affecting fishing, tourism, and the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Call for Coordinated International Response
In light of these alarming risks, the WWF is urging Mediterranean nations and the EU to take immediate steps to stabilize the Arctic Metagaz. Their recommendations include avoiding high-risk options such as towing or uncontrolled sinking and ensuring that all decisions are informed by environmental risk assessments and the precautionary principle. The organization also calls for enhanced real-time monitoring and data sharing among countries to effectively manage the situation.
