Technical report: Exploratory study on environmentally harmful subsidies in the Mediterranean

This exploratory study aims to raise awareness among decision-makers about environmentally harmful subsidies (EHS) in the Mediterranean, focusing on fishing and tourism. It highlights the diversity in definitions and methodologies surrounding EHS, complicating coordinated action for their reform. Estimates of EHS vary considerably and significantly surpass the investments in environmental protection. Despite international and regional agreements to reduce them, their impact persists, jeopardizing ecosystems and local livelihoods. The study emphasizes that for an effective reform, there is a need to increase data availability and extend the study to other sectors, while leveraging international events and tools for environmental fiscal reform. *

*The work for this study was conducted by Plan Bleu in 2021, with revisions in 2023.

Other recent publications

14/11/25

Socio-Economic Impact Study on Implementing Conservation Measures for Cartilaginous Species in the Gulf of Sirte, Libya

This comprehensive socio-economic impact assessment was commissioned by Plan Bleu/RAC and developed in close collaboration with SPA/RAC. It evaluates the potential impacts of implementing conservation

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14/11/25

Towards a Mediterranean NECA: Contextual Foundations and Sectoral Implications for Fisheries and Tourism

The report “Towards a Mediterranean NECA: Contextual Foundations and Sectoral Implications for Fisheries and Tourism”, developed by Plan Bleu, complements the REMPEC technical and feasibility

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12/11/25

From Knowledge to Action: Towards Sustainable Governance of Cruising and Recreational

The Pelagos Sanctuary, a tripartite Marine Protected Area between France, Monaco, and Italy, is a vital habitat for cetaceans, yet it faces increasing maritime traffic

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