IMO regulations
The fixed link will cross international waters which are subject to international law. In accordance with the regulations laid down by the UN’s International Maritime Organisation, IMO, the impact on ship traffic in Fehmarnbelt must be investigated and the international community be informed about the consequences for the ship traffic as a result of changes to navigational conditions in the area.

EIA Directive
Article 7 of the EU Council Directive 85/337/EEC on environmental impact assessment requires that EU member states are informed about potential cross-border environmental effects and that consultations with the neighbouring states are carried out based on an EIA report. Comments which may arise during such hearings must be considered prior to the final approval of the project.

Espoo Convention
The UN Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context requires that the states of the Baltic Sea Region are consulted about potential environmental impacts and about the steps taken to minimise cross-border impact.

The Helsinki Convention
The Convention, which aims to protect the marine environment in the Baltic Sea, including coastal areas, requires that member states likely to be affected by new major projects such as the Fehmarnbelt Fixed Link are to be consulted prior to the approval of the project.