ABSTRACT

The Mediterranean is a crucial hub for maritime trade, rich in oil and natural gas, with high tourism potential, and a highly significant enclosed basin surrounded by the coastlines of developed cities in European Union countries and the borders of many nations experiencing political conflicts. Due to this significance, pollution levels in the Mediterranean and efforts to protect it are also quite substantial. The Barcelona Convention stands out in international law regarding the protection of the Mediterranean Sea, as it covers countries bordering the Mediterranean. The convention aims to reduce pollution and increase sustainability in the Mediterranean. However, as the Mediterranean remains one of the most polluted seas today, questions remain about how effective the convention is in practice. In this context, the study focused on pollution and sustainability in the Mediterranean, particularly within the framework of the Barcelona Convention. The study concluded with recommendations on what needs to be done to make the Barcelona Convention more effective and prevent pollution in the Mediterranean.

Jel Classification: Q0, Q5, Q22