At the Green Shipping Conference in Accra, delegates from 17 maritime authorities across Africa discussed the potential for the continent to become a significant player in seafarer training and secure green jobs in the global shipping industry. The conference highlighted the need for crews trained to operate new vessels designed with alternative fuels and new technologies as the International Maritime Organization moves towards a target for net-zero emissions for shipping by 2050.
Global Center of Maritime Excellence
One of the key points discussed at the conference was the potential for Africa to establish a global center of maritime excellence for seafarer training. Such a center would bring wider benefits and more jobs to the region.
A Just Transition
The conference also stressed the importance of a Just Transition for the people involved in the shipping industry. This would require governments, employers, and trade unions to work together to align the various training, health, safety, and investment elements.
The Importance of Quality Training
Captain Catherine Haizel, a maritime lecturer and seafarer, emphasized the importance of quality training, conditions, and benefits. She called for the voice of women seafarers to be heard and their needs met in a Just Transition.
The Opportunity for Green Jobs
Sturla Henriksen, Special Advisor, Ocean, UN Global Compact, pointed out that a low-emission global economy will create new green jobs, providing an opportunity for Africa to take advantage of the emerging green jobs of the future.
Achieving Ambitious Consensus
The conference emphasized the importance of achieving ambitious consensus and unlocking the investment needed to unleash the green maritime jobs of the future. With July being a crucial moment for action, all parties need to work together to capitalize on this opportunity.
What Are Seafarer Training & Green Jobs?
Seafarer training refers to the education and preparation of seafarers who will work in the maritime industry, such as those who operate and maintain ships, handle cargo, and perform other duties on board a vessel. The training may cover a variety of topics, including safety procedures, navigation, ship handling, and communication.
On the other hand, green jobs refer to employment opportunities in environmentally friendlyand sustainable aindustries that In the context of the shipping industry, green jobs involve roles that support the transition towards low- or zero-carbon fuels and technologies that reduce the industry’s carbon footprint. These may include jobs in research and development, engineering, manufacturing, and operation and maintenance of low-emission vessels and related infrastructure.
How Seafarer Training and Green Jobs Can Save Our Planet?
Seafarer training and green jobs can help our planet in several ways. Firstly, seafarer training can help reduce the environmental impact of the shipping industry, which is responsible for a significant amount of global greenhouse gas emissions. By training seafarers to operate vessels powered by low- or zero-carbon fuels, such as hydrogen and ammonia, the industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. Secondly, green jobs in the shipping industry can help promote sustainable economic development in the African region and other parts of the world.
As the industry moves towards more sustainable practices, there will be an increasing demand for workers with the skills and expertise to support these practices. This demand can create new opportunities for workers, particularly in areas with high unemployment rates and underemployment. Overall, seafarer training and green jobs can help our planet by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable economic development, which are essential for a sustainable future.
Wrapping It Up
In conclusion, the Green Shipping Conference in Accra shed light on Africa’s potential to become a leading force in seafarer training and secure green jobs in the global shipping industry. With a growing demand for crews trained to operate low and zero-carbon fuel vessels, the conference emphasized the importance of establishing a global center of maritime excellence for seafarer training in the African region.
By harnessing the potential of seafarer training and green jobs, Africa can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change while promoting sustainable economic development in the region. However, the conference highlighted the need for action to unlock the investment and achieve consensus for a sustainable future.
