The official launch was held during the 65th session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), and the Australian delegation played a key role in the event. Australia, through AMSA and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, contributed to the display - and with the first PSSA being the Great Barrier Reef in 1990, Australia is a long-standing supporter of the concept.
In his speech during the opening ceremony, AMSA's Manager Marine Environment Standards Paul Nelson highlighted the success of the Particularly Sensitive Sea Area concept in altering perceptions about an area and raising awareness among seafarers of the need to navigate with caution. He also detailed the challenges involved in ensuring the benefits of shipping-international trade and development-are delivered without cost to the marine environment.
Other speakers included Mr Koji Sekimizu, Secretary-General of the IMO, and Dr Luis Valdez, Head of Ocean Science UNESCO-IOC. The Secretary-General cut the ribbon to open the display, following which all MEPC delegates attended a well-received reception, hosted by Australia.
IMO Secretary-General, Koji Sekimizu addressed the audience and said: "I believe that progressing the concept of PSSAs fits perfectly with the work we have already instigated to identify and implement sustainable development goals for the maritime transpo
Representative from Australia, Mr. Paul Nelson, Manager Marine Environment Standards, Australian Maritime Safety Authority addressed the audience
