Day of the Seafarer 2023 shines a spotlight on seafarers’ efforts in safeguarding the marine environment, as reported by IMO.
Protection and sustainability
The importance of protecting the world’s oceans and promoting sustainability in the shipping industry is widely acknowledged. Seafarers, who witness the impact of human activities on the marine environment, play a crucial role in implementing International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations and preserving the oceans while ensuring safety in shipping. The annual Day of the Seafarer, celebrated on June 25, honours the significant contribution of seafarers to international trade, the global economy, and civil society.
Protecting the World’s Oceans
The 2023 Day of the Seafarer commemorates the 50th anniversary of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), a vital global treaty that addresses pollution caused by ships. This year’s theme, “MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on,” highlights the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) continued dedication to safeguarding the marine environment through this significant treaty. Secretary-General Kitack Lim emphasizes the role of seafarers in preserving the oceans and making shipping more environmentally sustainable.
Mr Lim said:
“Seafarers have always played a critical role in helping to protect the health of our ocean and planet, and that role is increasingly important. Every day at sea, they help to enforce IMO’s environment-related treaties by implementing rules on garbage, sewage, and air pollution prevention.”
“This year, as we celebrate the 50-year anniversary of our main environmental instrument – the MARPOL Convention – renewing our firm commitment towards the protection of our environment, this remains even more relevant.”
He added:
“As the shipping industry accelerates its support of the global efforts to combat climate change by moving towards decarbonization, seafarers’ voices and actions are key to ensuring a just transition to a zero-carbon future.”
Celebrating seafarers on social media
IMO is encouraging seafarers to participate in the 2023 Day of the Seafarer by sharing photos of themselves at sea on social media. The aim is to provide a firsthand perspective of the crucial role they play in protecting the marine environment. The campaign invites individuals from the maritime industry and the general public to join in, expressing their gratitude and support for seafarers.
The 2023 social media hashtag is #OceansWorthProtecting.
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Source: IMO
