IMO Strengthens Global Action to Cut Sea-Based Plastic Through OceanLitter Training Initiative
SDG 14: Life Below Water | SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Institutions: Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change | Directorate General of Shipping
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) held a three-day Global Task Force Training & Workshop (12–14 November) under its OceanLitter Programme, bringing together over 100 government officials, researchers, NGOs and industry representatives from five regions, including India. The workshop focused on reducing plastic pollution from shipping and fisheries, an increasingly urgent concern as marine litter continues to damage ecosystems, economies and coastal livelihoods.
Discussions highlighted the need for stronger governance, science-based monitoring, and technology-enabled waste management for vessels and ports. Delegates also examined legal reforms, funding challenges, and practical tools for countries to implement effective prevention systems. The IMO emphasised the critical role of women in design and implementation, noting that inclusive approaches lead to more effective and sustained marine-protection outcomes.
India’s participation is notable given its large shipping fleet, expanding port infrastructure and sizeable fisheries sector — all of which face rising global scrutiny on plastic-waste management. Strengthening India’s alignment with IMO norms can reinforce compliance for exporters, reduce marine pollution around major ports, and support India’s Blue Economy vision.
The workshop also reinforces India’s priorities under the National Coastal Mission, Swachh Sagar–Surakshit Sagar campaign and the Blue Economy Policy Framework. It highlights the need for coordinated action between MoEFCC, DG Shipping, coastal states, port authorities and marine-value-chain exporters to build traceable, low-pollution maritime systems.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
What institutional mechanisms can India strengthen across ports, fisheries and maritime logistics to align with IMO’s OceanLitter framework and achieve measurable reductions in sea-based plastic?
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OceanLitter Programme tackles plastic pollution from shipping and fisheries