EMSA offers expertise in the field of environmental protection, helping the European Commission and Member States to address a wide variety of ship-sourced pollution and emission-related issues including carbon dioxide and sulphur emissions, alternative fuels, port reception facilities, ship recycling and shipowner insurance for maritime claims.

EMSA pollution response services are based on a network of chartered commercial vessels which have been adapted and equipped to offer pollution response services. These vessels are on standby all year long and are positioned around the European coastline.