OceanLitter Programme Global Task Force Training and Workshop
Officials across five regions gathered in London and online for the OceanLitter Programme Global Task Force Training and Workshop from 12 to 14 November, to collaborate on solutions to address marine plastic litter from the shipping and fisheries sectors. More than 100 participants, including government representatives, researchers, NGOs and private-sector stakeholders, exchanged insights on governance, legal and policy reforms and global best practices to address sea-based marine plastic pollution.
The event underscored the crucial role women play in developing and implementing solutions to prevent and reduce sea-based plastic pollution. Participants enhanced their knowledge about the ratification and implementation of the international instruments and conventions relevant to sea-based sources of marine plastic litter. Discussions highlighted the importance of science-based information while providing an opportunity to build partnerships at the national, regional and global levels. Presentations and an exhibition showcased emerging research and innovative technologies from industry partners and academia, allowing stakeholders to demonstrate concrete actions to combat the issue.
Participating countries included: Argentina, Brazil, Cabo Verde, Colombia, Costa Rica, Côte d'Ivoire, Ecuador, Gambia, India, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tonga, Tanzania, Vanuatu, Viet Nam, Sudan and Nicaragua.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have created the OceanLitter Programme which houses the PRO-SEAS, GloLitter Partnerships and RegLitter Projects, in order to streamline efforts across all the projects tackling sea-based sources of marine plastic litter.