Cyprus feels it is its duty to accelerate the transition of shipping to a low-carbon and climate-resilient industry, according to President Nicos Anastasiades, during the “One Ocean Summit”.
The Cypriot president noted that climate change knows no borders, adding that we need to act together to agree on targeted international measures.
As he said, the use of cleaner fuels, the deployment of relevant fuel infrastructure, the electrification of ships, and the use of energy efficiency technologies, coupled with the industry’s initiatives and commitments, can improve the commercial and environmental sustainability of the sector.
As for Cyprus, it has devised a long-term strategy for shipping, called “SEA Change 2030,” with the main objectives being the responsible management of the open seas and oceans, as well as the environment.
The Cypriot President also addressed Cyprus’ initiative to coordinate climate change actions in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, mentioning that this project aspires to encourage and provide incentives to the countries of the region to prepare their own regional action plans.
We are also extremely pleased that, after several years of systematic deliberations among the Mediterranean states through the Barcelona Convention system, a proposal has been recently submitted to the International Maritime Organization for the designation of the Mediterranean Sea as an Emission Control Area for Sulfur Oxides
Finally, the President highlighted that it would be extremely significant to protect public health and the environment in the Mediterranean by reducing exposure to harmful levels of air pollution due to these emissions.
He also reiterated Cyprus’ readiness to work toward ensuring this proposal is approved and enters into force by January 1, 2025.
