On behalf of the European barge, chemical and oil industries and the International Association of Waterworks of the Rhine, Cefic recently wrote to the Ministries of Transport of Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland to congratulate their governments on having created a new treaty covering the collection and disposal of barge residues and waste on the river Rhine.
The treaty came into force on November 1, 2009, and whilst some elements came into effect immediately, governments have 5 years to implement certain key requirements.
This treaty will undoubtedly make a significant contribution to improving the environment of this important river which acts as both a major transport route for industry as well as providing drinking water for millions of people.