Maritime Authority of Jamaica Recommits to Ocean Preservation

The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) has recommitted to the preservation of the health of the ocean through addressing marine litter, unsustainable fishing, invasive aquatic species, and pollution from ships, which are all serious threats to Jamaica’s territorial waters.

In his message commemorating World Maritime Day, which was observed globally on Thursday, September 25, MAJ Director General, Bertrand Smith, said that the Authority will continue to lead key initiatives to address these challenges with the support of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The Director General was speaking against the background of the WMD 2025 theme: ‘Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity’.

He highlighted the significant potential for sustainable, clean, and equitable blue growth in both traditional and emerging sectors, such as shipping, tourism, aquaculture, renewable energy, and marine biotechnology.

Mr. Smith cautioned, however, that this opportunity must be matched with a strong sense of stewardship.

“The Maritime Authority has engaged in several projects, with the support of the IMO, to reduce effects of marine litter and invasive species carried in ballast water or on the hulls of ships. The Authority is also responsible for the establishment of a framework to collect waste from ships, in keeping with Jamaica’s obligations under the MARPOL Convention,” he said.

“A maritime conscience is key to the sustainable use of the ocean,” the Director General added.

Mr. Smith said that the MAJ was proud to join the IMO “in celebrating the indispensable role of the ocean, seafarers, and the maritime sector in shaping a connected, resilient, and sustainable global economy.”

He contended that the 2025 WMD theme is a powerful reminder that the future of the planet depends on how its people care for and utilise the oceans together. The Director General also emphasised the essential and multifaceted value of the ocean, not just to maritime nations like Jamaica, but to all of humanity.

“The ocean is indispensable to our existence. It provides food, jobs, recreation, and is critical in regulating the planet’s health. It produces half of the Earth’s oxygen and absorbs carbon dioxide and heat, helping to mitigate climate change. We all share a collective responsibility to protect, preserve, and wisely use this vital resource,” said Mr. Smith.

He highlighted Jamaica’s ocean advantage and blue economy potential, pointing out that the country is uniquely positioned in the maritime space, with an ocean area that is approximately 24 times larger than its landmass.

He further indicated that this vast marine territory plays a pivotal role in national development.

Mr. Smith noted that blue economy activities contribute approximately 20 per cent of Jamaica’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with maritime transport serving as the cornerstone, facilitating over 90 per cent of the country’s trade.