A Moment of Global Maritime Reflection
The recent United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice brought with it more than just declarations. It surfaced a renewed urgency—a consensus that while commitments are valuable, they are not conclusive. As articulated by the head of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the real challenge lies in converting diplomatic promises into transformative practices.
The Maritime Mandate: More Than Compliance
Maritime transport lies at the heart of global trade and economy. It is also intricately linked to the health of marine ecosystems. From marine plastic pollution to underwater radiated noise and invasive aquatic species, shipping impacts run deep—literally and figuratively. Recognizing this, the IMO reaffirmed its leadership in driving environmental governance across the sector.
What stood out in Nice was not just the reaffirmation of past frameworks but the introduction of new coalitions and strategies that add credibility and urgency to ongoing efforts.
Tackling Underwater Noise: A Coalition Takes Shape
One of the more novel outcomes was the High Ambition Coalition for a Quiet Ocean. Spearheaded by Canada and Panama, and now supported by 37 countries, this initiative amplifies international resolve to mitigate the effects of underwater radiated noise on marine life.
The IMO’s contribution here is robust. Revised guidelines adopted in 2023 and a targeted action plan launched in 2024 are equipping member states with tools, policies, and shared learning mechanisms. The GloNoise Partnership Project further extends this impact by enabling six nations to develop technical capacities and foster policy innovation.
Invasive Species and Biofouling: From Guidance to Global Regulation
Invasive aquatic species, often transported via biofouling on ship hulls, represent a lesser-known yet ecologically damaging aspect of maritime activity. The IMO’s collaborative efforts with nations like Norway and Fiji are now steering global attention toward a binding regulatory framework due by 2027.
Meanwhile, capacity-building projects like the GloFouling and TEST Biofouling initiatives are supporting both developed and emerging economies. At the same time, a new Global Industry Alliance is mobilizing industry leadership to refine and accelerate the uptake of innovative technologies.
Marine Plastics: Reducing Ship-Sourced Pollution
While marine plastic pollution has been widely recognized, the enforcement of controls remains inconsistent. The MARPOL Annex V convention sets strong prohibitions on plastic discharge, but gaps persist in infrastructure, enforcement, and awareness.
The IMO’s 2025 Action Plan outlines a strategic roadmap: enhancing port waste reception facilities, strengthening seafarer training, and promoting international collaboration. Through initiatives like the OceanLitter Programme and the Global Industry Alliance for Plastics, momentum is building for practical, scalable change.
Quiet Progress, Measurable Outcomes
What makes this moment distinctive is not the volume of pledges, but the depth of specificity. Targets are clearer, coalitions are broader, and the tools for action are more sophisticated. The emphasis is shifting from aspirational to operational—a subtle yet profound evolution.
The IMO’s role is not merely as a convening body, but as a catalytic force—integrating regulation with real-world application and cross-sectoral alignment.
Looking Toward 2028: Building on the Foundation
With the next Ocean Conference scheduled for 2028 in Chile and the Republic of Korea, stakeholders now face a four-year window of opportunity. The time for debate has given way to the time for delivery.
Whether through quieter oceans, cleaner ports, or resilient marine biodiversity, the pathway is set. What remains is to ensure that the vision forged in Nice becomes a shared responsibility—and ultimately, a shared achievement.