World Maritime Day is observed every year on the last Thursday of every September. This year it will be observed on September 24, 2020.
The purpose of the day is to appreciate the importance of maritime industry and to underline the importance of maritime security, maritime environment, safety, and shipping.
The day also marks the day of adaptation of International Maritime Organisation (IMO) convention in 1958. It was first observed in 1978.
World Maritime Theme for 2020
The theme for this year’s World Maritime Day is sustainable development for sustainable shipping. The theme provides an opportunity to spread awareness about the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. The theme also shows the initiatives taken by IMO and its member states to achieve the sustainable development goals.
The pollution caused by the shipping industry and its impact on the environment is a cause for concern. Shipping industry is responsible for oil pollution, air pollution and water pollution. According to reports, the carbon dioxide emissions from shipping were responsible for a significant portion of the global human-made emissions that can rise to dangerous levels if appropriate steps are not taken.
The IMO helps in framing regulatory frameworks, which works towards a sustainable future. The IMO has also adopted measures, which help in reducing the greenhouse gas emissions. It is also working towards reducing the sulphur content in ship’s fuel oil, implementing the Ballast Water Management Convention, reducing marine litter, and improving efficiency of shipping through electronic exchange of information.
The day will be celebrated on September 24, 2020 at IMO headquarters. Parallel event will be held in Durban, South Africa in the last week of October.
What is International Maritime Organization
International Maritime organization is a specialised agency of United Nations which regulates the shipping industry. The organization was established in the year 1948 in Geneva and came into force in 1959. It now has 171 member states and 3 associate members. Its headquarters are in London, United Kingdom.
The IMO’s role is to develop and ensure a comprehensive regulatory framework for the shipping industry.
