Maritime transport: The sustainability imperative

Abstract

The role of maritime transport in addressing the global sustainability imperative is increasingly recognized. Safe, secure, energy-efficient, affordable, reliable, low-carbon, climate-resilient and rule-based maritime transport systems contribute to achieving an economically efficient, socially equitable and environmentally sound development. However, for this role to effectively materialize, unsustainable maritime transport practices that result in wide-ranging external costs need to be addressed. In the context of the ongoing implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement on climate change, there is a renewed opportunity to tap the sustainability potential of the maritime transport sector. Leveraging maritime transport in support of the sustainable development agenda requires that economic, social and environmental sustainability criteria be fully integrated and mainstreamed into relevant maritime transport planning processes, policies and investment decisions. This chapter highlights key issues lying at the interface of maritime transport and sustainable development while emphasizing the role of the sector as a catalyst of a development path that promotes people, prosperity, environment and effective and relevant partnerships.