Engaging the Next Generation in Maritime Decarbonization: A GreenVoyage2050 Initiative

Fifteen enthusiastic students gathered at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters in London on July 16 to brainstorm ways to attract more diverse talent into the maritime decarbonization sector. Hosted by the GreenVoyage2050 programme, the event aimed to explore strategies for engaging younger generations, strengthening connections with academia, and highlighting impactful work in developing countries.

Key Discussions and Insights

The students, currently in university or high school, engaged in lively discussions about the maritime industry’s sustainability and its impact on daily life. They gained valuable insights into the environmental challenges posed by shipping, IMO’s efforts to reduce emissions from ships, and GreenVoyage2050’s support for developing countries.

The group recognized the critical transition the industry is undergoing towards a decarbonized future, which presents numerous opportunities for young professionals to make a meaningful impact across various roles.

Bridging the Awareness Gap

A major theme identified was the general lack of awareness among young people about the maritime sector and the potential careers it offers, especially in the context of maritime decarbonization. To address this gap, several strategies were proposed:

1. Strengthening Connections with Academia: Building stronger ties between GreenVoyage2050 and universities to better link the maritime sector with academic institutions.
2. Creating Youth-Focused Content: Developing content specifically targeted at younger generations to raise awareness of shipping’s journey towards decarbonization.
3. Highlighting On-the-Water Impact: Showcasing the tangible impact of GreenVoyage2050’s work in developing countries and its on-the-ground actions.
4. Promoting Diverse Role Models: Highlighting diverse role models within the sector to inspire and attract a broader workforce.
5. Demonstrating Sector Diversity: Emphasizing the wide range of backgrounds and expertise needed for maritime decarbonization to inspire a more diverse workforce.

Reflections from Participants

Ocean Fay, an MSc student in Environmental Policy and Regulation at the London School of Economics and Political Science, reflected on the event: “GreenVoyage2050 brought together students and recent graduates to share ways for young people passionate about climate change to get involved. It was a great opportunity for us to see the impact we could have in a career in shipping and to participate in a fruitful dialogue on ways to make the sector more diverse and inclusive.”

Future Dialogues

This event marks the beginning of a series of dialogues that GreenVoyage2050 will organize with young people, both at IMO HQ and in partnering countries. These dialogues aim to raise awareness of opportunities in maritime decarbonization and emphasize the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in this field.

By engaging the next generation and fostering connections with academia and industry leaders, GreenVoyage2050 is paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future in maritime decarbonization.