A recent event hosted by the GreenVoyage2050 programme at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters in London brought together 15 enthusiastic students to discuss strategies for attracting more diverse talent into the maritime decarbonization sector. These students, currently in university or high school, engaged in lively discussions about the sustainability of the maritime industry and its impact on daily life.
Raising Awareness Among Younger Generations
The students identified a significant lack of awareness among young people regarding the maritime sector and its potential career opportunities, especially in maritime decarbonization. To address this, they suggested creating content specifically targeted at younger audiences to highlight the industry’s transition towards sustainability. By showcasing the journey towards decarbonization, they hope to inspire more young individuals to consider careers in this field.
Strengthening Connections with Academia
The group also emphasized the importance of building stronger connections between GreenVoyage2050 and academic institutions. By collaborating with universities, the programme can better bridge the gap between the maritime sector and academia, providing students with valuable insights and opportunities. This approach aims to attract a diverse workforce equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to drive maritime decarbonization efforts.
Highlighting Impactful Work in Developing Countries
Another key strategy discussed was highlighting the on-the-ground impact of GreenVoyage2050’s work in developing countries. By showcasing real-world examples of how the programme supports these regions, students believe it can draw attention to the sector’s global importance and the diverse range of backgrounds and expertise needed. This approach can help demonstrate the tangible benefits of maritime decarbonization and inspire more individuals to join the effort.
Reflecting on the event, Ocean Fay, an MSc student in Environmental Policy and Regulation at the London School of Economics and Political Science, expressed the value of such dialogues. She emphasized the opportunity for young people passionate about climate change to see the impact they could have in a career in shipping. The event marked the first in a series of dialogues by GreenVoyage2050 to raise awareness and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in maritime decarbonization.
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Source: IMO