A. M. 
Maritime transport plays a crucial role in the global economy, as it is responsible for the movement of 80% of international trade, according to the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). This activity not only facilitates the exchange of goods and services, but also represents a significant opportunity for economic development in Latin America and the Caribbean. However, the sector faces a considerable challenge: its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions amount to approximately 3% of the global total. In fact, if the maritime sector were considered a country, it would rank as the sixth largest emitter globally, highlighting the urgent need to adopt more sustainable practices.
Faced with this situation, the member countries of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have set an ambitious commitment: to achieve carbon neutrality in the sector by 2050. This goal represents a monumental challenge that requires the implementation of clean technologies, improvements in energy efficiency and a shift to cleaner fuels. As progress is made towards this goal, the integration of climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies becomes a priority to ensure the sustainability of shipping.
Despite the importance of these initiatives, the attention devoted to climate mitigation and resilience in Latin America and the Caribbean remains limited. The region lacks robust strategies and specific measures to decarbonize the maritime sector and adapt it to the impacts of climate change. This lack of action translates into significant vulnerability to environmental challenges, which could affect not only port infrastructure, but also trade and the regional economy as a whole.
The urgency of the measures to be implemented is evident. The deadlines set at the global level, together with the magnitude of the changes required, demand a rapid and effective response from governments and maritime authorities in the region. To achieve a sustainable transformation in maritime transport, it is crucial to establish clear policies, foster international collaboration and invest in resilient technology and infrastructure. Only in this way will Latin America and the Caribbean be able to face the challenges of climate change and contribute significantly to the reduction of emissions in the maritime sector.
