Tag: sustainability

The IMO announced the launch of a collaboration with the Global Environment Facility and the United Nations Development Programme, aiming to address the negative environmental impacts of the transfer of aquatic species through ships. The GloFouling Partnerships project is expected to drive actions to implement the IMO Guidelines for the control and management of ships’ biofouling.

The Port of Rotterdam Authority, the government and four provinces have agreed for more secure parking spaces and charging points for clean energy along two of the most important freight transport corridors heading for Germany. A network of filling points for sustainable fuels and other energy carriers will be created.

A sperm whale was found dead in Indonesia having 115 plastic cups and 25 plastic bags in its stomach. This unfortunate incident raised concerns amongst environmentalists, focusing on the country's major garbage problem. Indonesia is the world's second biggest contributor to marine debris, following China.

MOL announced that it will support three initiatives to address the issue of global warming. These are the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures; Japan Climate Initiative; and Cool Choice. These aim to contribute to global environmental conservation by developing environmental and emission-free businesses.

Liberia has become the first vessel to be admitted to the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network as an associate member. Liberia has earned international respect for its dedication to flagging the world’s safest and most secure vessels. 

The Republic of Seychelles has launched the world’s first sovereign blue bond, according The World Bank. The bond, which raised US$15 million from international investors, is a pioneering financial instrument designed to support sustainable marine and fisheries projects, demonstrating the potential for countries to harness capital markets for financing the sustainable use of marine resources.

Nor Shipping is targeting to achieve ISO 20121 certification from DNV GL. This ISO regards the Sustainable Events Management System Standard for Events Organisations. It is also an attempt to meet the UN Sustainable Development Goal 17, to revitalize global partnerships for sustainable development.

The Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners granted over $3 million in order to support four projects that will help improve water quality in and around Long Beach as part of the Port Community Grants Program. The $46.4 million program aims at reducing the environmental impacts of goods movement.

ABS issued guidance providing the marine and offshore industries an actionable framework for owners, operators and manufacturers to take smart steps today in preparation for an environmentally sustainable future. The 'ABS Guidance Notes on Smart Function Implementation' support data infrastructure development, enabling health and performance monitoring, and augmenting vessel operations.

While speaking at the last SAFETY4SEA Conference in Athens, Mrs. Carleen Lyden Walker, Co-Founder/Executive Director of NAMEPA, emphasized sustainability as an opportunity of success and change for the shipping industry. Never before the recorded history has so much change and disruption occurring at such an accelerated pace, she argued, providing several examples of how many changes the industry has seen over the recent years, and how the industry can benefit.