New employer-union climate alliance agreed as Global Maritime Forum backs ITF just transition plan

The Global Maritime Forum and the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) have signed an agreement to co-operate in 'problem solving and identifying concrete actions' to speed up decarbonisation in the maritime sector.

The ITF is a global union federation with more than 300 maritime union affiliates in over 130 countries, including Nautilus International.

The ITF said a clear, common purpose had emerged in the shipping industry for stronger action on climate change ahead of the global climate summit COP26 in Glasgow.

It said the pact outlines the importance of worker, corporate and investor leadership uniting to push for meaningful action. The immediate focus of the agreement is decarbonisation and just transition, but it will serve as the basis for co-operation on other strategic issues in the future. As part of the memorandum the ITF will be inviting affiliates to sign up to the Global Maritime Forum's Call to Action.

ITF general secretary Stephen Cotton said: 'To reach [net] zero by 2050, the shipping industry must pull its weight. This agreement shows leadership and movement from the employers, workers, and their unions to do what’s needed to get us to zero.

'A just transition means concrete measure to ensure that workers' voices, expertise, and ambitions are at the centre of decision-making in transition plans for the industry. The Global Maritime Forum understand that, and that involving workers from the outset is crucial for the rapid change required in curbing emissions.'

Global Maritime Forum CEO Johannah Christensen said: 'We are excited about what this new agreement means for our industry's ability to step up to the task of decarbonising shipping by 2050. We recognise the incredible strength to be had in focusing the ideas, energy, and investment of both our members on the climate crisis

'We welcome the launch of the ITF's principles for a just transition. There is so much common ground. Training and re-training, maintaining health and safety when it comes to new fuels, and of course ensuring good working conditions for seafarers that are commensurate with their central role in global supply chains.

'When it comes to moving shipping to zero carbon, Global Maritime Forum will be leading this transition – right alongside our workforce and their representatives in the ITF. We will do this transition justly, and in partnership.'

The Global Maritime Forum is a foundation which brings together leaders from across the maritime industry to shape the future of seaborne trade.