The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has launched the IMO CARES (Coordinated Actions to Reduce Emissions from Shipping) Maritime Technology Global Challenge. This initiative seeks to catalyse the adoption of innovative decarbonisation solutions for ports and domestic vessels in Africa and the Caribbean, marking a significant stride towards a sustainable maritime future.

Encouraging Innovation for Sustainable Shipping
The Challenge invites technology providers globally to submit market-ready solutions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the maritime sector. Target countries, including Namibia, St Kitts and Nevis, Trinidad and Tobago, and a fourth soon-to-be-announced country, will benefit from these technologies. The initiative underscores the critical role of technology in the maritime decarbonisation transition and aims to empower every country to move towards a low-carbon future.

Empowering Regional Decarbonisation Efforts
Anton Rhodes, Project Manager at the IMO Department of Partnerships and Projects, emphasises the Challenge’s importance in addressing specific green technology needs of the target countries. The solutions identified through this Challenge are expected to be adaptable to similar issues faced by other countries in these regions, encouraging a broad impact on maritime decarbonisation.

Participating in the Challenge
Launched via a virtual event featuring speakers from the IMO CARES team and representatives from the Maritime Technology Cooperation Centres (MTCCs) in Africa and the Caribbean, the competition is now open for entries. Submissions are accepted until January 7, 2024, with winners to be announced at the end of January 2024. Winning technology providers will receive funding to develop technical proposals and potentially demonstrate their solutions in the participating countries.

Supporting Climate-Vulnerable Nations
The Maritime Technology Global Challenge is a key component of the IMO CARES project, focusing on aiding climate-vulnerable Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). These regions face unique challenges in transitioning to low-carbon operations and are particularly susceptible to climate change impacts.

Linking Global Initiatives for Decarbonisation
Funded by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and implemented by the IMO, the IMO CARES project aims to align various global efforts to expedite maritime decarbonisation in developing countries. This initiative represents a coordinated global response to the urgent need for sustainable maritime practices.

About the International Maritime Organisation (IMO)
The IMO is a specialised United Nations agency dedicated to maritime safety, environmental protection, and facilitating international maritime traffic.

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