As the world commemorates World Maritime Day on the last Thursday of September, Antigua and Barbuda’s Department of Marine Services and Merchant Shipping (ADOMS) is taking center stage in international maritime governance. This year’s theme, “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), underscores the urgent need to safeguard marine ecosystems amidst escalating global threats. ADOMS, in collaboration with the Permanent Mission to the United Nations, is actively engaged in three pivotal multilateral initiatives: the BBNJ Agreement, the Global Plastics Treaty, and IMO-led efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping. As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Antigua and Barbuda faces disproportionate risks from climate change, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Despite minimal contributions to global emissions, the nation has emerged as a leader in advocating for equitable and ambitious environmental policies. The BBNJ Agreement, adopted in 2023, focuses on conserving biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, while the Global Plastics Treaty aims to address plastic pollution across its lifecycle. Concurrently, the IMO is advancing strategies to decarbonize the shipping industry, targeting net-zero emissions by 2050. These efforts highlight the interconnectedness of ocean governance and the critical role of international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges. Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to multilateral diplomacy and environmental justice underscores its dedication to securing a sustainable future for the world’s oceans.
Antigua and Barbuda Highlights Ocean Protection Efforts on World Maritime Day
