Danish Shipping adopted policy on Biofouling Management per IMO guidelines aiming to protect vulnerable marine ecosystems and the biodiversity of the seas.
Danish Shipping has adopted a new policy on biofouling management, where it recommends that its members follow IMO guidelines, which are currently not mandatory. So-called biofouling on the hulls of ships is not only a potential threat to vulnerable marine ecosystems, but it also causes increased fuel consumption, when there are things stuck to the hull (due to the increased friction).
Proper biofouling management reduces fouling, bio-security risks and fuel consumption. Moreover, studies have shown that biofouling is a major factor in the spread of invasive species. Even a small amount of fouling (like algae or barnacles) can increase drag by up to 55%, leading to a considerable rise in fuel consumption.
“There is a lot we can do to reduce the risk of moving invasive aquatic species into vulnerable marine ecosystems. We recommend regular monitoring and hull-cleaning using non-toxic long-lasting coatings and innovative hull design and technologies. Our ships travel vast distances, and we must make sure that we do not carry invasive species with us and damage marine ecosystems on our journeys,” said Nina Porst, Director of Climate, Environment and Security, Danish Shipping.
According to the Danish Shipping policy paper, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has developed comprehensive guidelines for the control and management of biofouling to minimize the transfer of invasive aquatic species (2023 Guidelines).
These guidelines promote standardized operational procedures to reduce biofouling risks and emphasize preventing biofouling growth through systematic hull cleaning. This minimizes the colonization of fouling organisms on submerged surfaces, reducing hydrodynamic drag and biosecurity risks.
In addition, the guidelines encourage the use of state-of-the-art, non-toxic, and biocide-free anti-fouling coatings, such as silicone-based foul-release coatings. These coatings are designed for durability and high performance, reducing maintenance cycles and environmental impacts.
Compliance is ensured through monitoring and documentation of hull inspections, biofouling assessments, and anti-fouling treatments. To optimize biofouling management further, innovative technologies like hydrodynamic hull designs, autonomous robotic hull-cleaning systems, and advanced sensors for real-time biofouling monitoring are recommended. These advancements improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and contribute to the sustainable operation of ships.
We must take the appropriate steps to protect the marine environments that our ships travel through. By adopting a smart biofouling management plan, you not only help protect the environment, but you also reduce fuel consumption. It just makes good environmental and business sense to do so.
…said Nina Porst.
