The National Network of Sea Emergency Volunteers

EcoOcean is spearheading the establishment and operation of Israel’s first national volunteer network dedicated to responding to marine and coastal oil pollution.

Global volunteer networks are recognized as a critical component in preparedness and response programs for such pollution incidents. Volunteers act as a ‘force multiplier’, bringing professional capabilities to help manage oil spill emergencies and mitigate their devastating impacts on communities, marine life, and coastal ecosystems.

The core mission of the Marine Emergency Volunteer Network is to bolster Israel’s local authorities preparedness in the event of an oil spill at sea or along the coastline.

The National Network is a joint initiative of EcoOcean and the National Marine Environmental Protection Unit at the Ministry of Environmental Protection, in collaboration with Mediterranean Sea professionals and coastal authorities .

The Mediterranean Sea is a hub of activity with significant pollution risks – offshore gas platforms, new oil and gas exploration licenses, and heavy traffic from oil tankers and cargo ships. All of the above increase the likelihood of a major spill.

Currently, Israel is only partially prepared to handle a large-scale oil spill or offshore drilling disaster in the Mediterranean. Most local emergency response plans for coastal protection (including shoreline oil spill cleanup) fall under the responsibility of the coastal authorities (regional councils and municipalities) and the Nature and Parks Authority.