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Today, Satellite data allow fine analysis of the evolution of the density of vessels sailing on all the seas of the world. Global maritime traffic has seen unprecedented growth since the early 1990s (Survey IFREMER ). It shows a global fourfold growth between 1992 and 2012. The largest increase has been observed in the Indian Ocean, particularly in the Bay of Bengal, and in the Chinese seas. All these data reliably reflect the evolution of the global economy, including the changes in the rate of economic growth: around 6% over the the 1992-2002 period, between 8% and 10% per year between 2002-2012, except a virtual stagnation during the 2008-2009 economic crisis. Unfortunately the growth of maritime transport sign of a sound economy is also an important issue. The vast majority of the vessels are powered by fossil fuel creating the main source of air pollution in the open sea. And this will not change in the near future. Improving the technology of shipbuilding is the only realistic target in order to protect the environment. Not forgetting to mention of course, criminal prosecution and penalties against shipowners who do not respect maritime law and conventions.

Mo Tailland / 29th January 2015

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