Question.
"Sea is an important component of the Cosmos."
Discuss in the light of the above statement the role of the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) in protecting the environment and enhancing Maritime safety and security.
(UPSC 2023 General Studies Paper 2 (Main) Exam, Answer in 150 words)
Answer.
The sea is an important component of the Cosmos as it covers about 71 % of the earth's surface.
The sea is an important component of the Cosmos as it plays an important role in regulating the earth's climate, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem, facilitating global trade and economic connectivity, and being an integral part of the water cycle.
The statement that the sea is an important component of the cosmos emphasizes the significance of the marine environment in the broader context of the Earth's ecosystems and global connectivity.
IMO (International Maritime Organisation) plays a critical role in safeguarding the environment and promoting maritime safety and security.
IMO (International Maritime Organisation) role in Marine Environment Protection:
MARPOL Convention:
IMO (International Maritime Organisation) administers the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships ( MARPOL).
MARPOL prevents various forms of marine pollution, including oil spills, air pollution, and sewage discharge.
The goal is to minimize the environmental impact of shipping activities.
Ballast Water Management:
IMO (International Maritime Organisation) has adopted the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships Ballast Water and Sediments to address the transfer of potentially invasive species through ballast water.
This helps protect marine ecosystems from the negative effects of invasive species.
Green House Gas ( GHG) Emissions reduction:
IMO (International Maritime Organisation) has been actively working on addressing greenhouse gas ( GHG) emissions from shipping.
It has a vision to reduce total annual GHG emissions from International shipping.
IMO (International Maritime Organisation) role in Maritime Safety and Security:
International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea ( SOLAS) Convention:
The SOLAS sets minimum safety standards for the construction, equipment, and operation of ships.
IMO (International Maritime Organisation) is responsible for the implementation of SOLAS norms.
It contributes to preventing accidents at sea and ensuring the safety of ship passengers.
International Ship and Port Facility Security Code ( ISPS Code):
IMO (International Maritime Organisation) introduced the ISPS code for maritime security.
This code enhances the security of ships and port facilities to prevent maritime security threats.
Piracy and Armed Robbery Prevention:
IMO (International Maritime Organisation) collaborates with international organizations and member states to address the challenges of piracy and armed robbery against ships.
Search and Rescue Coordination:
IMO (International Maritime Organisation) facilitates the establishment of search and rescue regions and coordination mechanisms to ensure effective responses to maritime incidents, contributing to the safety of lives at sea.
In summary, the Sea is an important component of the Cosmos, therefore it needs protection, safety, and security. IMO (International Maritime Organisation) plays a key role in regulations and conventions in protecting the marine environment, enhancing maritime safety, and addressing security challenges.
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