To mark this year’s World Maritime Day on 28th September, our CEO Tim Hill MBE and Chair of Trustees Esteban Pacha have sent this letter to International Maritime Organization Secretary-General Kitack Lim.
Dear Secretary General,
On behalf of Stella Maris, we would like to offer you our wholehearted support for this year’s World Maritime Day which carries the theme “MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on.”
The theme marks the 50th anniversary of the very important environment treaty which has played a significant part in ensuring the protection and sustainability of the sea and shipping.
In his Sea Sunday address in 2021 from the Vatican, Pope Francis highlighted the importance of looking after the sea and its ecosystem, urging everyone to care for the health of the sea.
Pope Francis has frequently reminded us about the principles and actions that ought to guide our imperative to protect and care for the environment, most notably through his encyclical Laudato Si.
As you rightly say in your World Maritime Day message, shipping must embrace decarbonisation, digitalization and innovative technology, all whilst ensuring that the human element is kept front and centre of this green transition to ensure a sustainable planet.
Stella Maris, through our work, is committed to ensuring that seafarers, fishers, and their families, are fully supported and cared for during this transition.
Please be assured of our continued support for your work.
