Environment and climate protection
Tackling the global challenge of marine pollution together
International shipping has been working for decades under strict global guidelines to prevent waste from entering the sea. The IMO’s MARPOL Convention provides uniform global standards for clean oceans and fair competitive conditions.
read more: Tackling the global challenge of marine pollution togetherBiofouling – a maritime environmental problem with global implications
Marine organisms attaching themselves to ship hulls increase emissions, complicate operations and introduce invasive species. International IMO guidelines and the Biofouling Round Table focus on finding joint solutions for effective biofouling control as an important aspect of sustainable shipping.
read more: Biofouling – a maritime environmental problem with global implicationsUnderwater noise
Noise from human activities affects the communication and orientation of many marine animals. International IMO guidelines and joint dialogue formats such as the Underwater Noise Round Table develop solutions to reduce sources of shipping noise effectively.
read more: Underwater noiseBallast Water Convention
To prevent the spread of invasive species, strict worldwide IMO regulations apply to the treatment of ballast water. Shipping companies are investing in modern systems. VDR supports their implementation and development by engaging in an international dialogue.
read more: Ballast Water ConventionShip recycling – recognising and promoting progress
Over 90 per cent of materials from decommissioned merchant ships can be recycled. Through international agreements such as the Hong Kong Convention, the shipping industry is creating binding standards for safe as well as environmentally and socially responsible recycling.
read more: Ship recycling – recognising and promoting progress
Navigating sustainability – new VDR guidelines
VDR has developed guidelines to assist its member companies with mandatory sustainability reporting. To raise general awareness of this important topic, VDR’s practical guide is also available to the public.
read more: Navigating sustainability – new VDR guidelines
