Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
The BWM DSS model was designed to be transparent, adaptable and reviewable,
if necessary. This yields the potential to be used in different parts of the world for
more effective prevention of HAOP transfers via ballast waters, and concurrently to
the sustainable development of the shipping industry.
Although some BWM related facts are unquestionable, issues to be clarifi ed/
solved remain. These may include:
• Our experience resulted in a sampling approach which we believe is representative
of the ballast water discharged. However, future work on this subject may result in
changes to this suggested sampling approach, which would need to be validated.
• Sample processing methods are available for both an indicative and a detailed
analysis. Organism detection tool manufacturers have recognised the special
needs to proof compliance with BWM approaches and currently new organism
detection tools are under development. A testing and validation phase of these
systems is required.
• Appropriate training of PSC offi cers is needed to address all implementation
needs of the BWM Convention.
• Do the current BWM Convention requirements substantially reduce the number of
new HAOP introductions or are stricter standards needed? However, this may be
very diffi cult to document as other organism transport vectors may overlap with
ballast water so that a clear identifi cation of the responsible vector is impossible.
• Can BWMS systems be cost-effi ciently enhanced in their performance to even
achieve better protection, e.g., USA ballast water performance standards? Is a
zero detectable organism discharge standard achievable?
• Suffi ciently developed RA-based exemptions from BWM requirements are
needed to address all requirements of the G7 Guidelines and the precautionary
principle not to undermine the BWM Convention purpose.
• Self-funding mechanisms, such as fees and penalties, may be developed to support
the implementation of all BWM Convention needs.
• The applied CME measures should be harmonised in minimum on a regional
level to avoid that vessels are compliant in one port, but not in another, because
different methods and approaches are implemented to proof compliance.
• As agreed by IMO, the BWM Convention and its guidelines may have to be
reviewed as new knowledge developed and experience was gained. However,
such a review process may only be initiated after its entry into force.
By summarizing BWM related aspects from many disciplines and by providing
insights of latest research results and regulatory aspects we hope that this topic
clarifi ed many ballast water issues. We also believe that the proposed RA and DSS
approaches will reduce the BWM burden of ships by providing at the same time an
adequate protection from HAOP introductions by ballast water.
Although some issues raised above are critical, our view is that the BWM
Convention should enter into force soon to reduce the risks of future ballast water
mediated species introductions.