The Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI) proudly announces the joining of Rio Tinto to its membership. A move which strengthens the organisation’s resolve, adding momentum as we collectively navigate towards a sustainable shipping industry.
SSI’s dedication to propelling a sustainable shipping industry encapsulated the need to protect and uphold seafarers’ rights and welfare. A testimony to this is the Delivering on seafarers’ rights Code of Conduct, developed in collaboration with the Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB) and The Rafto Foundation, which goes beyond regulation and focuses on the full spectrum of seafarers’ rights and welfare.
As the largest dry bulk shipper by volume globally, Rio Tinto owns 17 vessels and charters another 230 ships to transport over 300 million tonnes of product annually. Their commitment to safety and seafarer welfare is highlighted through initiatives like the Designated Owners and Operators (DOO) program, aimed at uplifting safety and crew welfare standards in the dry bulk industry. The DOO program draws on industry-recognised best practices, including the Delivering on seafarers’ rights Code of Conduct. This code has been integrated into Rio Tinto’s vetting regime since 2022.
Rio Tinto Head of Commercial Operations, Laure Baratgin said “The health, safety and welfare of seafarers that support our global shipping operations is a priority at Rio Tinto. This includes their physical safety, fundamental rights such as access to food, water and being paid on time, as well as their broader welfare and making sure they feel psychologically safe and included. Industry collaboration and sharing is essential and we are excited to partner with the SSI to work towards a safer and more sustainable shipping industry.”
“The Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI) is thrilled that Rio Tinto is joining our membership,” said Steven Jones, SSI’s CEO, “Their longstanding commitment to fatality and injury-free shipping industry, evident in their innovative Designated Owners & Operators (DOO) program, aligns perfectly with SSI’s goals. This program’s focus on fatality prevention, crew welfare, and environmental standards exemplifies the kind of collaborative action needed to achieve a more sustainable maritime industry. We’re confident Rio Tinto’s leadership and expertise will be instrumental in driving positive change across the sector.”
Source: The Sustainable Shipping Initiative