Bertrand Smith, Director-General of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica, was speaking at a recent World Maritime Day ceremony at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston.
Bertrand Smith, Director-General of the Jamaica Maritime Authority, reiterated Jamaica’s commitment to fostering resilient marine ecosystems for future generations.
Speaking at the recent World Oceans Day ceremony hosted by Earth Ambassadors at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, Smith outlined Jamaica’s proactive measures in protecting the oceans, including the implementation of a global initiative supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to combat marine litter from the transportation and fishing sectors.
The Secretary-General also noted the country’s adherence to the IMO Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Strategy 2023. “As an active member of the International Maritime Organization, Jamaica is committed to global efforts to decarbonize shipping, with the ambitious target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050,” he said.
Recognizing the urgent need for action, Mr. Smith highlighted the vital role that youth leadership plays in driving sustainable change.
“(World Oceans Day) is not only a day to celebrate our oceans but also to empower our youth, especially our Earth Ambassadors and Junior Ambassadors who are spearheading environmental efforts,” he said.
“I am proud of the contributions of youth leadership in driving the change we need for our blue planet. At local, national and international levels, young people are taking action and changing policies to create a better future. We celebrate these young climate champions,” the Secretary-General added.
Smith also appealed to individuals to “protect our oceans and our environment for our children, grandchildren and future generations,” adding that what is done today and going forward will be crucial to their future and the world.
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