The global economy is connected through ocean transport, underpinning international trade, connecting nations and coastal communities as well as supporting the livelihoods of many. This is epitomized in Pacific Island countries which are dependent on shipping for as much as 80% to 90% of all goods needed to sustain their population and economies. Yet Pacific Nations have the most expensive shipping in the world, the longest transport routes, and often the oldest and least energy efficient ships.
Ocean transport can also play a critical role in achieving ambitious climate action with the potential to deliver greenhouse gas emissions reductions of up to 0.47 GtCO2e annually by 2030 and 1.8 GtCO2e annually by 2050. The transition is already underway but requires acceleration and commitment by governments and the private sector to meet agreed emission reduction targets. This transition must ensure that no one is left behind and benefit everyone by providing clean, affordable, efficient, and accessible transportation and shipping solutions. The development of solutions must improve global disparity and be globally accessible, regardless of size or wealth. Collective action with innovative financing is essential to decarbonise this transportation sector and develop a sustainable and affordable shipping industry to support these communities.
The Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership is an open coalition of Pacific Island Countries—co-chaired by Fiji and the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI)—who have announced an ambitious commitment to accelerate decarbonisation of the maritime transport sector coupled with a large-scale transformation of domestic maritime sectors in line with regional and international commitments concerning climate change and sustainable development.
The Sustainable Development Reform Hub serves as the Interim Secretariat for the Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership. The Hub aids operations of the initiative, including researching and developing strategies for decarbonising maritime transport identified through the assessment of current technologies, policies, and economic instruments. As Secretariat, the hub helps to build capacity and strengthen partnerships between the public and private sectors to ensure the success of the PBSP.
