Page 7 - INTERCARGO - Annual Review 2019/2020

Foreword by the

Secretary General

The period covered by this Review (Sep 2019 – Aug 2020) has been marked by the
impact of coronavirus and the unprecedented disruption it has caused, threaten-
ing to compromise global commerce and economic growth.
Unfortunately, the humanitarian crisis caused by the difficulties of crew change
is ongoing. Seafarers are stranded at sea and all governments should recognise
their efforts and formally designate seafarers and other marine personnel as key
workers.
Dry bulk carriers remain the workhorses of international shipping serving essen-
tial needs, such as food, raw materials and energy supply. This has been amply
demonstrated during these difficult times.
Dry bulk shipping is necessary for maintaining and enhancing living standards in
both developed and less-developed economies. At INTERCARGO we are proud
that our sector is achieving environmental and operational excellence and that
it contributes substantially towards meeting the UN Sustainable Development
Goals.
While shipping is the most environmentally friendly transport mode, and our sec-
tor especially takes pride in that respect, the further reduction of greenhouse gas
emissions from ships is the greatest environmental challenge ahead of us. IN-
TERCARGO strongly supports the initial strategy and roadmap of the Internation-
al Maritime Organization.

INTERCARGO provides the forum where dry bulk shipowners, managers and op-
erators are kept informed on, and can discuss and share concerns on key topics
and regulatory challenges, especially in relation to safety, the environment and
operational excellence. The Association brings forward its members’ positions to
the IMO, as well as to other shipping and international industry fora.
Following a doubling of the Association’s membership during 2016-2019, 2019-
2020 has seen a membership stabilised at historic high levels, comprising compa-
nies from across 30 different countries, and offering a Quality Badge widely rec-
ognised by the industry.

Dr Kostas G. Gkonis
Secretary General

September 2020

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