UN Ocean Conference Highlights Maritime Sector’s Role , Challenges In Protecting Blue Waters

 

The outcome document from the recent UN Ocean Conference recognized the vital role of maritime transport, routes, and marine infrastructure in the global economy, trade, food, and energy security. It also underscored the significant challenges in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within the sector.

Tackling Underwater Noise Pollution
At the conference, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) welcomed the launch of the High Ambition Coalition for a Quiet Ocean, led by Canada and Panama, comprising 37 countries committed to addressing underwater noise pollution. An IMO-co-organized side event with France, Costa Rica, and South Africa showcased the organization’s efforts, including:

Revised 2023 Guidelines to reduce underwater radiated noise (URN) from commercial shipping, protecting marine life.

The 2024 IMO Action Plan on URN, focusing on targets, policies, research, and experience-sharing among Member States.

Technical support through the GloNoise Partnership Project, assisting six countries in capacity-building and policy dialogue on URN.

Combating Invasive Aquatic Species
IMO is actively addressing the threat of invasive species spread through biofouling on ship hulls. During a side event with Norway and Fiji, IMO highlighted:

Development of a new legally binding global biofouling management framework, expected for adoption in 2027.

Issuance of 2023 biofouling control guidelines for the shipping industry.

Support through the TEST Biofouling Project (IMO-NORAD) and GloFouling Partnerships Project (GEF-UNDP-IMO).

The Global Industry Alliance for Marine Biosafety, promoting improved biofouling management.

Fighting Marine Plastic Pollution
IMO’s International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL Annex V) prohibits most garbage discharges, including plastics, while the London Convention/Protocol bans deliberate dumping at sea. IMO’s initiatives include:

A 2025 Action Plan targeting marine plastic litter reduction from ships, better port waste facilities, seafarer training, and enhanced international cooperation.

Technical assistance via the OceanLitter Programme (IMO-FAO), with projects like GloLitter, RegLitter, and PRO-SEAS focusing on legal reforms, port facilities, and gear marking.

Announcement of a new Global Industry Alliance to mobilize private sector action against marine plastic pollution.

IMO Secretary-General Calls for Accelerated Action
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez praised the commitments made at the conference but emphasized the need for urgent, measurable action. “Commitments are a necessary first step, but they are not the finish line,” he said. “We must move beyond statements to real progress through collaboration and shared efforts.”

Mr. Dominguez led the IMO delegation in Nice, highlighting ongoing maritime sector initiatives to decarbonize shipping, reduce underwater noise, combat invasive species, and prevent marine pollution. He reaffirmed IMO’s central role in advancing ocean protection through regulatory frameworks and technical support.

“Looking ahead, the international community is called upon to intensify efforts before the next UN Ocean Conference in 2028, to be hosted by Chile and the Republic of Korea.”