Prioritizing Seafarer Well-Being and the Importance of Strong Networks and Sustainable Solutions in the Maritime Industry
Mapping the ocean industry is a challenging task that requires a comprehensive understanding of its different sectors, services, and stakeholders. In this article, we will take a closer look at the evolution of the map and the different segments and stakeholders that operate within the ocean industry.
The maritime industry is a complex network of stakeholders, including shipping companies, charterers, and seafarers. While all stakeholders are important, the well-being of seafarers is often overlooked. Prioritizing seafarer well-being is not only the right thing to do, but it also makes good business sense.
The Seafarers Happiness Index was founded by a former seafarer with the mission to ask seafarers how they feel about life at sea. By understanding their experiences and emotions, the Index aims to drive progress and prioritize seafarer well-being. The Index can serve as a tool for companies to benchmark themselves against the wider population and make meaningful changes.
Innovation
Innovation and technology can play a crucial role in improving seafarer welfare. For example, virtual reality technology can provide seafarers with a way to escape the isolation and boredom of life at sea. However, more than technology is needed. Understanding seafarers' experiences and emotions is essential to develop technology that truly addresses their needs.
Networks
Building strong networks within the maritime industry has led to increased diversity and inclusion. Networks play a crucial role in promoting diversity and inclusion by providing a platform for people to connect and learn from one another. Strong networks have improved the maritime industry by creating opportunities for people to share knowledge and best practices.
Regulation
The UN law, which was supposed to be a mechanism of control and compliance for the high seas and international waters, could be better. The oceans are one of the global commons and need their voice and mechanisms for dealing with the challenges they face. Instead of focusing on regulation, we need to focus on problem-solving. By framing the problems better, we are more likely to find solutions.
Challenges
The maritime industry faces many challenges that require sustainable solutions. While the UN law has imperfections, it is still an important mechanism for control and compliance beyond sovereign control. The oceans need their voice and representation, and we must share knowledge to find solutions together. By having the bravery to set about solutions, we can move the dial positively and significantly impact the ocean industry.
Conclusion
Prioritizing seafarer well-being, building strong networks, and finding sustainable solutions are crucial to the success of the maritime industry. By understanding seafarers' experiences and emotions, stakeholders can make meaningful changes to improve the lives of seafarers. It is also vital to create an environment that is welcoming to all and provides a platform for people to connect and learn from one another. The oceans are one of the global commons and need their voice and mechanisms for dealing with the challenges they face. Rather than focusing on regulation, we should focus on problem-solving and sharing knowledge to find solutions.
