Protecting biodiversity

The World Shipping Council works to protect biodiversity by preventing the spread of invasive species and pests, reducing the risk of ship strikes on whales, and helping stop illegal wildlife trafficking. We promote international cooperation, shared best practices, and practical guidelines that safeguard ecosystems on land and at sea, while supporting the safe, efficient movement of global trade.

  • Wildlife crime continues to pose a significant threat to biodiversity, local and national economies, as well as national and international security.

    The illicit trafficking of wildlife not only endangers countless species but also undermines the stability of ecosystems and jeopardizes the livelihoods of communities worldwide.

    World Shipping Council is committed to combatting illegal wildlife trafficking through increasing awareness and vigilance across global supply chains.

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  • We share the oceans with whales and other marine life that traverse these waters and are especially vulnerable to collisions with vessels and noise generated by vessels. WSC works closely with NGOs, governments, and other organizations to find ways to protect cetaceans from shipping, including our Whale Chart. 

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  • The movement of containers and their cargoes can facilitate the introduction and spread of invasive pests to communities around the world, posing a serious risk to agriculture, forestry and natural resources. Container flows are complex and involve multiple border crossings, multiple modes of transport and handovers of control between actors.

    World Shipping Council actively promotes best practice for container packing and cleanliness, as well as working with stakeholders across the supply chain on how improvements can be made to stop the spread of invasive species.

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