Dubai: The international shipping industry, which carries over 80% of global trade and uses more ocean space than any other sector, is stepping up action to protect the ocean. This year's World Maritime Day, observed globally on 25 September, focuses on the sector's impact on the marine environment, and what it can do to reduce pollution, curb greenhouse gas emissions, and prevent biodiversity loss.
According to Emirates News Agency, United Nations Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres, in his statement, emphasized the importance of safeguarding the ocean and its vital role in global ecosystems. He urged nations to commit to the Nice outcome, invest in resilient maritime industries, and drive the blue economy towards sustainable development. Guterres highlighted that the ocean is not just a commercial route but a life-sustaining force that supports billions of people, regulates climate, and provides employment opportunities.
Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, reiterated the organization's commitment to ensuring the shipping industry contributes positively to environmental protection. He stressed the importance of international regulations, technical support to Member States, and collaboration among governments, industry, academia, and civil society to find global solutions. Dominguez called for the maritime community to build on recent global progress, including the imminent entry into force of the High Seas Treaty and commitments made at the UN Ocean Conference.
Under the theme 'Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity', IMO highlighted several actions and progress achieved this year. These include the adoption of the 2025 Action Plan to Address Marine Plastic Litter from Ships, the development of a legally binding global regulatory framework on biofouling management, and the approval of the draft IMO Net-Zero Framework. Additionally, the Mediterranean Sea was designated as an Emission Control Area, limiting sulphur content in fuel oil to reduce air pollution. The Hong Kong International Convention for ship recycling entered into force, and the GloNoise Project was extended to combat underwater radiated noise.
To commemorate World Maritime Day, IMO Headquarters illuminated in blue light, promoting this year's theme of ocean conservation. IMO encouraged Member States, intergovernmental organizations, and NGOs to participate by lighting up landmarks, reinforcing the global commitment to protecting the ocean.