Nevertheless, a distinct need still exists to subject substandard operators to more efficient and targeted port state control, as well as to exert renewed pressure on the flag state administrations and classification societies which do not live up to their responsibility of regular control of national flag carriers. Efforts should focus on developing a broader awareness and sense of responsibility, not only among shipowners and national administrations, but also among the customers who fuel the demand for substandard vessels. The health and safety of seafarers is closely related to the working environment, and on Danish ships the working conditions meet the same standards as ashore. Recent EU legislation has resulted in a need to amend landbased regulations and adapt them for application on board ships, as well as to ensure cohesion with existing maritime safety legislation. A second compelling issue, in addition to the urgency of prioritizing safety at sea, is protection of the environment.
Shipping is basically an environmentally friendly mode of transport.
Comprehensive international regulations on environmentalprotection equipment on board ships are in force, but these regulations must be followed up by adequate waste reception facilities in ports. As a consequence of previous oil tanker accidents, numerous new requirements were introduced already in the 1990s, including requirements for doublehulled tankers. First of all, however, it is of paramount importance that existing regulations be strictly enforced, and that the classification societies' control of ship structures must constitute a guarantee of the ship's seaworthiness. A topic that has recently attracted attention in the international shipping industry is the scrapping of ships. In some parts of the world, ships are scrapped with little regard for safety or environmental hazards.