IMO commemorates the 50th anniversary of the adoption of MARPOL
On 02 November 2023, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) commemorated the fiftieth anniversary of the adoption of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), the world’s leading treaty for the prevention of marine pollution from ships, whether intentional, operational or accidental.
Throughout the year, the anniversary was marked by the global maritime theme: “50 years after MARPOL, our commitment continues”. This theme highlights the important regulatory work carried out by the IMO over half a century to protect the environment from the impacts of maritime transport. It also highlights IMO’s ongoing commitment to support the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim said: “Today, 2 November, is a landmark milestone – 50 years since IMO Member States adopted this key treaty to protect the marine environment from pollution by ships from intentional, operational or accidental causes. We can look back and welcome the steps that were taken back in 1973 to address pollution by oil and chemicals carried on ships, but also to mitigate pollution by packaged goods, by sewage and by garbage. In the 1990s, a new annex was adopted to address air pollution and emissions from ships. MARPOL regulations have been driving innovation to tackle pollution and to address global issues, including climate change.”
“Of course, now is not the time to sit back. Shipping must embrace decarbonization, digitalization and innovative technology, including automation – while ensuring the human element is kept front and centre of the technological and green transition to ensure a sustainable planet for future generations. MARPOL has made a difference to shipping – and to the health of our oceans – and will continue to do so, as we look ahead to the next 50 years,” Secretary-General Lim said.
