The United Nations Global Compact announced at the UN Ocean Conference that MSC will participate with more than 150 stakeholders in the signing of the UN Global Compact Sustainable Ocean Principles.
Based on and complementing the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact on human rights, labour, environment and the fight against corruption, the Sustainable Ocean Principles provide a framework for responsible business practices.
MSC said it recognises the collective responsibility of companies to assess their impact on the ocean, protect ocean health, and take action on ocean sustainability.
“Oceans play a vital role in the health of our blue planet, producing half of the world’s oxygen as well as regulating our climate. By signing the Sustainable Ocean Principles, we are joining with other blue economy companies to help build a sustainable blue economy,” commented Stefania Lallai, vice president of sustainability at MSC’s Cargo Division.
As a member of the UNGC Ocean Stewardship Coalition and the Maritime Just Transition Task Force, MSC believes in working with a variety of partners. These partnerships are part of MSC’s Sustainability Roadmap, through which the company responds to the rapidly evolving landscape, according to a statement.
“This commitment by 150 blue economy companies shows the private sector’s willingness to support SDG 14. Healthy and productive oceans rely on all actors to do their part. I am encouraged that these companies are committed to integrating ocean health into their corporate strategies,” stated Sanda Ojiambo, assistant secretary-general and CEO of the United Nations Global Compact.
It is important to note that the UN Ocean Conference and the UN Decade of Ocean Science (2021-2030) serve as ongoing reminders of the importance of the maritime industry’s role in the health of oceans and in enabling resilient and sustainable supply chains.
