Australia is proud to join the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other shipping nations in celebration of World Maritime Day.
The theme this year - New technologies for greener shipping - highlights the significant need to protect and preserve the environment through the adoption of decarbonisation technologies.
While shipping is the world's most energy efficient method of mass-cargo transport, the shipping industry still contributes almost 3 per cent of the world's carbon emissions.
Harnessing new, greener technologies will make a significant contribution towards addressing climate change and meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development goals.
The IMO's initial goal is to reduce shipping's total annual greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50 per cent by 2050, consistent with the Paris Agreement temperature goals.
Technological innovation and the global introduction of alternative fuels and energy sources for international shipping is key to achieving this ambition. Australia proactively supports this through influencing and implementing IMO environment regulation and investing in alternate fuels.
To recognise the importance of addressing climate change, Australia will join other countries around the world in illuminating prominent buildings in blue and green - from Australia House in London, to the Australian Maritime Museum in Sydney.
In addition, Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse in Western Australia, Flagstaff Lighthouse and Macquarie Lighthouse in New South Wales also be illuminated this evening.
Australia has also chosen this most auspicious day for the global maritime sector, to announce its candidacy for re-election to category b of the IMO Council for the 2024-25 biennium.
The IMO sets standards for the safety, security and environmental performance of international shipping. Australia's continued participation on the IMO Council allows us to help position the maritime industry to be resilient and responsive to change by shaping standards for the protection of the environment, seafarer conditions, international trade and sea transport.
Learn more at www.amsa.gov.au/australias-candidacy-category-b-imo-council.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"As Minister responsible for the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, I am proud to join with the International Maritime Organization and other nations to celebrate World Maritime Day today.
"Today also marks the launch of Australia's campaign to seek re-election to category b of the IMO Council.
"Representation on the IMO Council allows us a seat at the table to influence important policies and decisions in the international maritime sector.
"Nowhere is this more important that in relation to decarbonisation and other strategies to reduce global warming."
