NIMA organised a seminar on ‘IMO’s Obligations of Reducing Harmful Emissions at Sea – Pakistan’s Response and Challenges’ on 31st Jan 24. As the Chief Guest, V/Adm Abdul Aleem, former DG of NIMA, graced the occasion. He emphasised that the road ahead to achieve greener shipping in line with IMO GHG Strategy-23 is challenging but can be overcome by strategic planning and systemic capacity building.

President NIMA, in his welcome remarks, highlighted that in the era of “Climate Emergency”, the responsibility of every sector has increased manifold. Mr. Camille Bourgeon, Tech. An IMO, London officer highlighted the need for early ratification of MARPOL Annex VI by Pakistan as it has already ratified the earlier five annexes. He also assured the gathering that IMO would render full technical support. Ms Alia Shahid, DG Ports & Shipping, MoMA, clarified that a roadmap had been chalked out for its ratification in an early time frame.

Cdre Irfan Taj from PNSC presented an elaborate plan for how PNSC will replace its ageing fleet in the next thirty years. He also mentioned that existing ships have already shifted to low-carbon fuel. Dr. M. Faheem from NUST introduced the latest technologies, including remote sensing systems, which can help generate air pollutant patterns that can be essential tools for identifying long-term effects on the environment. He also presented low-cost air monitoring systems developed by NUST with an accuracy factor of 90%.

Representatives from various maritime communities, including PMSA, KPT, GPA, and provincial EPAs, also gave their valuable input. Towards the end, it was a unanimous concern that under SDG 13 & 14, Pakistan needs to expedite its MARPOL VI ratification process to meet 2030 and 2050 GHG targets.