WASHINGTON, D.C. – The following statement was issued by Francisco Ollervides, Ocean Conservancy’s director of Ocean Climate Justice, in support of the Maritime Just Transition Task Force’s partner announcement at Singapore Maritime Week today:  

“Ocean Conservancy is proud to serve as a knowledge partner for the Maritime Just Transition Task Force as the world moves to decarbonize across the maritime industry. Shifting to non-polluting fuels and zero-emission vessels is a crucial step in slowing the impacts of climate change.  

Shipping is the backbone of most global trade, and it also produces a staggering 3% of emissions that is driving climate change. Shipping emissions are a climate problem and an equity issue too. Air pollution from shipping directly affects people, often working-class communities of color, by causing health issues that can lead to premature death.  

“The Maritime Just Transition Task Force’s planned report on the new skills needed for seafarers will provide tangible steps for the industry to ensure a just and equitable transition from fossil fuels. It has an unparalleled opportunity to change the international shipping industry in a way that supports a healthy ocean and the communities that depend on it.  

“These endeavors require close collaboration from industry, government, and public entities and Ocean Conservancy is energized to be part of this powerful network of allies working towards this common goal.  

“We know the technology exists for global shipping to transition away from harmful fossil fuels. The Maritime Just Transition Task Force can be a much-needed catalyst to turn the tide.” 

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Francisco Ollervides is available for interviews upon request. 

 NOTES TO EDITOR: 

• The Maritime Just Transition Task Force was founded by the International Chamber of Shipping, the International Transport Workers’ Federation, and the UN Global Compact. It announced project partners and knowledge partners during Singapore Maritime Week this week.  
• The task force will work to ensure a fair and equitable green transition in the shipping industry, which aligns with Ocean Conservancy’s recommendations to a sustainable shipping sector.

Ocean Conservancy is working to protect the ocean from today’s greatest global challenges. Together with our partners, we create science-based solutions for a healthy ocean and the wildlife and communities that depend on it. For more information, visit oceanconservancy.org, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.