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World Maritime Day, observed each year on the last Thursday of September, was established by the United Nations in 1978. It is meant to raise awareness about the importance of the global shipping industry and the vital contribution it makes worldwide. As an Ocean freight forwarder, BTX Global Logistics honors this day and supports the efforts of the International Marine Organization (IMO) to provide safe, efficient, and sustainable growth in the maritime shipping sector.
The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) is the international organization adopted by the IMO covering the prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes. This year's World Maritime Day theme is "MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on," in celebration of the 50-year anniversary of its environmental initiatives.
“As someone who worked in the Maritime Industry for 21 years before joining BTX, I understand firsthand the importance of taking care of our oceans and am proud to work at an organization that cares about the environment,” said Tim McElroy, Chief Operating Officer of BTX Global Logistics.
International maritime shipping transports more than 80 percent of trade to people and communities globally. Though many do not think about it, the world relies on a safe, secure, and efficient maritime shipping industry -- an essential component of any program for future sustainable green economic growth.
Please view this special message from IMO Secretary General Kitack Lim in honor of World Maritime Day and MARPOL:
As part of the 50-year MARPOL anniversary celebration, IMO will develop a number of initiatives:
- The IMO-UNEP-Norway Innovation Forum 2023 - The event will take place on September 28, 2023 at IMO's Headquarters in London and online. The Forum will include topics such as Environmental performance; reducing plastic litter from ships; supporting innovation in marine fuel production; decarbonizing the maritime sector; unlocking green finance; and partnerships and collaboration.
- Lighting up landmarks - IMO Headquarters will be bathed in blue light in the evening of the day to promote this year's World Maritime theme. IMO invites participants to light up buildings, bridges, ports, ships, monuments, museums, and other emblematic landmarks on the occasion of the 2023 World Maritime Day celebration.
- Social media participation - IMO invites member states and everyone in the maritime industry to celebrate the day by using the hashtag #WorldMaritimeDay and tagging IMO on social media.
The promotion of sustainable maritime development is one of the major priorities of IMO in the coming years. Therefore, energy efficiency, new technology and innovation, maritime education and training, security, traffic management, and the development of infrastructure will support IMO's commitment to provide the institutional framework necessary for a green and sustainable global maritime transportation system.
Sources: un.org; imo.org
BTX Global Logistics is a full-service shipping and logistics organization known for providing reliable, flexible solutions to its customers. BTX's services include expedited shipping, air freight, ground freight, sea freight, white glove, trade show, customs brokerage, ecommerce, fulfillment, and more.
