Page 5 - INTERCARGO - Annual Report_2021

Message from the

Chairman

In 2020, the 40th anniversary of our Association coincided
with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO’s) Glob-
al Fuel Oil Sulphur Cap and the unprecedented challenges
faced by the shipping industry under COVID-19, which has
dominated our lives and those of our seafarers.
Now - in 2021 - top of the agenda remains the continued
lack of universal recognition of seafarers as key workers.
INTERCARGO continues to actively participate in IMO’s de-
liberations, being fully committed to its strategy and ambi-
tion in reducing ships’ GHG emissions.

Our Association is also a co-sponsor of the industry pro-
posal for a five billion dollar R&D programme to kick start
the vital research and development needed to help shipping
meet the UN decarbonisation goals. INTERCARGO is ac-
tive in commenting on IMO’s short, medium and long term
greenhouse gas reduction goals.
On the protection of the environment, INTERCARGO has al-
so been closely looking into the quality issues with Low Sul-
phur fuel oils as well as the real-world performance of Bal-
last Water Treatment Systems.
Regarding bulk carrier safety we continue our strong focus
on cargoes as well as persuading IMO to push flag states
for timely submissions of Casualty Reports.
We are proud that our sector, dry bulk shipping, is commit-
ted to the safe transportation of the world’s essential needs
- sustainably.
So far in 2021 we have been blessed by a stronger dry car-
go market for all sizes. Long may it continue!
INTERCARGO will continue to stand at the forefront of the
challenges faced by the bulk carrier sector and represent
the views of quality owners and operators.

Dimitrios J. Fafalios
Chairman

September 2021

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