Hot Topics

Sulphur 2020 – cutting sulphur oxide emissions from ships

Emissions of sulphur oxides (SOx) are known to be harmful to human health and they contribute to ocean acidification. From 1 January 2020, the limit for sulphur in fuel oil used on board ships operating outside designated emission control areas will be reduced to 0.50% m/m. This will significantly reduce the amount of sulphur oxides from ships and should have major health and environmental benefits.

Testimonies of stranded seafarers

As of July 2020, over 200,000 seafarers are stranded on ships and waiting to be repatriated, and about as many are stranded home and eagerly waiting to join ships and earn a living. Seafarers from around the world have agreed to share a glimpse of the challenges they face during the pandemic.

IMO and the SDGS

Maritime security

Disease outbreaks – advice for shipping

This page contains updates and links to information on disease outbreaks, including information from the World Health Organization (WHO) and guidance to the maritime sector.

Implementing the Ballast Water Management Convention

IMO kids website

IMO's kid-friendly website includes a specially- commissioned animation showing how IMO works to protect the marine environment and the atmosphere.