Tag: BWM Convention

The 2021 GREEN4SEA Virtual Forum focused on the regulatory agenda and industry’s ambitious targets and emerging challenges as we move forward to a more sustainable future for shipping.

The 75th session of the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 75) took place remotely from 16 to 20 November. Among the key points were the approval of amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, with new requirements addressing GHG emissions and the approval of guidelines for onboard fuel sampling. 

ERMA FIRST has published detailed research comparing the effectiveness of its full-flow electro-chlorination technology versus ultra-violet technologies as well as side-stream ballast water systems and systems without filters. The research focuses particularly on the needs of the spot trading cargo fleet, which trades in a range of waters and is potentially subject to both US Coast Guard and IMO standards.

The regulator has changed its position by considering extensions to AMS installed vessels that are near the end of the acceptance period, but challenges remain for owners seeking compliance, writes Evon Li, Senior Engineer, Advisory Services, ABS

UK Maritime and Coast Guard Agency (MCA) updated its FAQ on ballast water management, based upon queries received from interested stakeholders. 

The US Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) formally initiated its investigation of pending Canadian ballast water regulations alleged to be unfavorable and detrimental to US flag Laker vessels.

Following China's extension of the treaty to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, ships flagged to Hong Kong will now be required to apply the requirements of the Ballast Water Management Convention (BWM).  

During the 2020 GREEN4SEA Athens Forum, Mr. Andreas Kokkotos, Partner, ARGO NAVIS Engineers Ltd., explained that confusion with owners’ supplied items can result misunderstandings, delays or even to missing equipment. In light of the situation, Mr. Kokkotos highlighted the reasons why the crew must be familiar with convention requirements before the ship leaves the shipyard.

During the 2020 GREEN4SEA Athens Forum, Dr. Efi Tsolaki, Chief Scientific Officer, ERMA FIRST S.A. highlighted that invasive aquatic species are a major threat to the marine ecosystems, and shipping has been identified as a vital pathway for introducing species to new environments.

Managing cost, digitalization and environmental regulations are some of the key challenges shipping will have to encounter in the next 5-10 years, industry experts said on the sidelines of the latest SAFETY4SEA Athens Forum, which took place in Eugenides Foundation on 2 October.