Guidance on mitigation of marine invasive species: Biofouling and ballast water

Version history

December 2023 – Initial publication

Summary

It has been widely recognised in the Marine Contracting Industry that the utilisation of global vessels may introduce a risk of translocation of marine pests or invasive marine species through biofouling on vessels and ballast water.

In light of the new UN biodiversity strategy, which emphasises the urgent need for enhanced protection and conservation of marine ecosystems, it is imperative that the industry takes proactive measures to mitigate the potential harm caused by these invasive species.

This guidance:

• Provides supporting references on measures to minimise the transmission of invasive marine species through biofouling and ballast water.
• Contains aspects of marine invasives species and related topics such as biofouling and ballast water management.
• Covers best practices from IMCA members.

Contents

• Glossary of Terms
• Introduction and Scope
  • Marine Invasive Species
  • Biofouling
  • Ballast Water
• Legal Framework and Standards 
  • EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030     
  • Ballast Water Management Convention 
  • Control and Management of Ships’ biofouling      
  • International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships              
  • Specific Regional Requirements  
• Monitoring and Mitigation Measures       
  • Mitigation Measures against Biofouling   
  • Monitoring for Biofouling              
  • Mitigations Measures for Ballast Water  
  • Monitoring Ballast Water              
• Sharing Best Practices     
  • DeepOcean         
  • TechnipFMC       
  • Fugro    
  • SBM Offshore