As a series of disasters, such as those caused by the sinking of the Erika and the Prestige, have amply demonstrated, the lack of such rules and sanctions has indeed led to an increase in pollution and prevented timely action being taken to prevent or limit the damage caused.
Ainsi que le démontrent amplement des catastrophes récurrentes, comme les naufrages de l'Erika ou du Prestige, l'absence de telles règles et sanctions a favorisé, de fait, l'accroissement de la pollution et empêché une action diligente de prévention et de limitation des dommages.