The side-event showcased the successful “GLO-X” partnership model of collaboration which underpins the work of the GloMEEP, GloBallast, GloFouling and GloNoise projects. These projects have driven – and continue to drive – innovation to tackle key environmental issues including greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction, invasive aquatic species transferred through ships’ ballast water and biofouling on ships, and underwater radiated noise in the marine environment. 

The GEF Assembly saw government ministers and officials, business leaders, environmentalists, leaders of international agencies and environmental conventions from 185 countries brought together to discuss ways of building upon recent breakthroughs on biodiversity loss, toxic chemicals, and the high seas. 

At the side event, IMO’s Fredrik Haag, Head, Office for London Convention/Protocol and Ocean Affairs spoke about the range of projects executed and implemented by IMO. Also speaking were representatives from GEF, UNDP, GloFouling Partnerships’ Global Industry Alliance for Marine Biosafety, BIMCO and WISTA International.