International shipping transports more than 80 per cent of global trade to peoples and communities all over the world.
Shipping is the most efficient and cost-effective method of international transportation for most goods; it provides a dependable, low-cost means of transporting goods globally, facilitating commerce and helping to create prosperity among nations and peoples. The world relies on a safe, secure and efficient international shipping industry, which is an essential component of any programme for future sustainable green economic growth in a sustainable manner. The promotion of sustainable shipping and sustainable maritime development is one of the major priorities of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in the coming years. Therefore, energy efficiency, new technology and innovation, maritime education and training, maritime security, maritime traffic management and the development of the maritime infrastructure: the development and implementation of global standards covering these and other issues will underpin IMO’s commitment to provide the institutional framework necessary for a green and sustainable global maritime transportation system.
World Maritime Day theme 2025 — “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity” — shines a spotlight on the essential role the ocean plays in sustaining life, livelihoods, and the global economy. It provides half of the oxygen we breathe, feeds billions of people, regulates the climate, and enables more than 80% of global trade through maritime transport. The ocean is also home to countless marine species and a vital source of jobs, food, and economic opportunity for millions. But the ocean faces mounting pressure—from pollution and overuse to the accelerating effects of climate change. Protecting it is not just about saving nature—it is a global responsibility that touches every aspect of human life. As the largest sector operating in ocean space, the shipping industry plays a crucial role in both facilitating global commerce and advancing ocean protection. It works hand in hand with sectors like tourism, fisheries, and marine research to manage the ocean sustainably. The IMO, through its robust global regulatory framework and wide-ranging technical assistance programmes for its 176 Member States, continues to lead efforts for cleaner, safer seas.
International shipping transports more than 80 per cent of global trade to peoples and communities all over the world.
Shipping is the most efficient and cost-effective method of international transportation for most goods; it provides a dependable, low-cost means of transporting goods globally, facilitating commerce and helping to create prosperity among nations and peoples. The world relies on a safe, secure and efficient international shipping industry, which is an essential component of any programme for future sustainable green economic growth in a sustainable manner. The promotion of sustainable shipping and sustainable maritime development is one of the major priorities of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in the coming years. Therefore, energy efficiency, new technology and innovation, maritime education and training, maritime security, maritime traffic management and the development of the maritime infrastructure: the development and implementation of global standards covering these and other issues will underpin IMO’s commitment to provide the institutional framework necessary for a green and sustainable global maritime transportation system.
World Maritime Day theme 2025 — “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity” — shines a spotlight on the essential role the ocean plays in sustaining life, livelihoods, and the global economy. It provides half of the oxygen we breathe, feeds billions of people, regulates the climate, and enables more than 80% of global trade through maritime transport. The ocean is also home to countless marine species and a vital source of jobs, food, and economic opportunity for millions. But the ocean faces mounting pressure—from pollution and overuse to the accelerating effects of climate change. Protecting it is not just about saving nature—it is a global responsibility that touches every aspect of human life. As the largest sector operating in ocean space, the shipping industry plays a crucial role in both facilitating global commerce and advancing ocean protection. It works hand in hand with sectors like tourism, fisheries, and marine research to manage the ocean sustainably. The IMO, through its robust global regulatory framework and wide-ranging technical assistance programmes for its 176 Member States, continues to lead efforts for cleaner, safer seas.
Links:
Wo
International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL)
Reports of the Secretary-General on Oceans and the law of the sea
Intergovernmental Conference on Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction / BBNJ Agreement
Gegevens