Pollution and the Ocean's Ecosystem
Marine pollution is the discharge of hazardous materials into oceans, seas or other bodies of saltwater. These activities include industrial processes, oil spills, sewage disposal, and maritime shipping. For marine ecosystems, human health, and activities like fishing, tourism, and leisure, marine pollution can have catastrophic effects.
The Maritime transportation industry sustainable development is significantly impacted by marine pollution. Because the sector depends on clean, healthy oceans for its operations, pollution seriously threatens the industry's capacity to survive. Polluted oceans affect the vessel's operational cost and increases fuel consumption. High levels of pollution compel businesses to reroute their vessels, increasing prices and lengthening voyage times.
The effects of Biodiversity loss also affect the sustainability of the marine transportation industry, due to its reliance on the abundance and diversity of marine life, both for commercial fishing and as an attraction for tourism. The degradation of the oceans will significantly cause loss of income and hinder long-term sustainability. Biodiversity loss is as a result of the introduction of harmful substances in the ocean that negatively impacts marine organisms, such as: Physical damage, Habitat destruction, Disruption of food webs, and Genetic damage.
Jamaica’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement
Jamaica has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for the effects of climate change as part of its NDC under the Paris Agreement. Although there may not be a clear connection between marine pollution and Jamaica's greenhouse gas emissions, it is nevertheless a serious problem that negatively affects both the marine ecosystem and the country's population. Jamaica’s economy highly depends on the fishing industry and tourism sector. However, the Government has realized the negative impacts of marine pollution on the health of its people and their livelihoods. To address the issues, the government has implemented regulations on single-use plastics and conducted beach clean-up campaigns.
Recommendations
A systematic strategy is required to address marine pollution and establish strong sustainability in the marine transportation sector. Taking into account the sources of pollution and formulating a plan. The required steps are outlined below:
Establish regulations and policies.
Promote sustainable practices.
Develop new technologies.
Improve monitoring and reporting.
Increase public awareness.
Collaborate with stakeholders.
This is a very interesting research,,I learned alot
I want to help to save our oceans!
Very Informative