- Do you live or work near the port of Marseille and are exposed to air pollution from the port, particularly in the presence of cruise ships?
- If you think, like us, that the polluting emissions, multiplied by cruise ships, that you breathe risk causing health problems (chronic or allergic respiratory infections, breathing difficulties, heart problems, cancer)
We suggest that you file a COLLECTIVE COMPLAINT AGAINST X., for failure to intervene and endangering the lives of others.
Why file a complaint?
A serious complaint has the effect of setting Public Action in motion, that is to say that a Prosecutor will take up the file for investigation.
- This can result in:
- Use state resources to investigate this behavior
- Drawing attention to illegal behavior, controlled communication that can accompany the complaint
- Have these behaviors criminally condemned (action or omission) in the event of a trial
- Allow victims to seek fair compensation (constitution of civil party)
- Serve as support for other future legal actions (civil and administrative jurisdictions)
Are there any risks for the plaintiffs?
This action cannot be considered abusive because the complainants are simply denouncing a health and environmental problem. They report a deterioration in their health linked to the presence of cruises.
There is also no risk of defamation or slanderous denunciation, the complaint being filed against X., it is a Prosecutor who is in charge of identifying possible suspects.
I want to file a complaint, how do I do it?
For the practical aspects of filing a complaint and civil constitution, please write to complaintcollective@stop-croisieres.org.
We will respond to you by giving you all the useful information to integrate this appeal.
No financial contribution is requested from the complainants.
The effects of polluting emissions from cruises on human health
Source: Washington State Department of Ecology
Fine particles (PM)
Particle pollution affects the airways and lungs and can cause problems in other parts of your body. It’s especially bad for people with chronic heart and lung diseases (like asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema), children, and the elderly. It makes these illnesses worse, which can lead to hospitalization or even premature death.
Children are at high risk because their lungs continue to grow and they spend more time at high activity levels. Exercise and physical activity make people breathe faster and deeper, carrying more particles into their lungs.
Even if you are healthy, you may experience temporary symptoms, such as irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory system.
Nitrogen oxide (NOx)
Nitrogen oxide harms the lungs. It irritates the respiratory systems and increases symptoms in people with asthma. Children, the elderly, and people with asthma are at increased risk of health effects after exposure to nitrous oxide. Long-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide can cause asthma in children.
Nitrogen oxides also contribute to a complex chain of chemical reactions that form ground-level ozone and nitrates containing fine particles. Ozone and fine particles are also harmful to health.
Sulfur oxide (SOx)
SOx irritates the respiratory system and causes inflammation and constriction of the airways. Children, the elderly, and people with asthma are at increased risk of health effects after exposure to SOx. Particles containing sulfates can contribute to the formation of haze which reduces visibility.