- The oceans face a significant threat from marine invasive species, driven primarily by hull biofouling—the accumulation of aquatic organisms on ships’ hulls.
- To address this environmental concern and enhance energy efficiency, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) introduced revised Biofouling Guidelines in 2023.
The Impact of Biofouling
Marine invasive species pose a severe threat to global biodiversity, often transported across oceans through hull biofouling. Beyond ecological concerns, biofouling increases hydrodynamic drag on vessels, leading to up to a 35% rise in fuel consumption. Effective biofouling management not only protects ecosystems but also promotes energy efficiency and reduces air emissions from ships.
The 2023 IMO Guidelines
The updated Biofouling Guidelines aim to establish a consistent global approach to biofouling management. They cover crucial aspects, including ship design, antifouling systems, hull cleaning, and maintenance. Several nations, particularly those with sensitive marine ecosystems like Australia, enforce strict biofouling regulations, ejecting non-compliant ships from territorial waters.
Key Recommendations
Anti-Fouling System (AFS)
- Choose and install a type-approved AFS on all submerged surfaces.
- Seek technical advice from AFS manufacturers based on the ship’s operating profile.
Biofouling Management Plan (BFMP)
- Develop a ship-specific BFMP under the responsibility of owners, operators, and masters.
- Include details of AFS installation, recommended operating conditions, cleaning regimes, and documentation requirements.
Inspections
- Conduct regular hull inspections based on a ship-specific risk profile.
- Perform inspections within 12 months of AFS application for ships without performance monitoring.
- Rate the extent of fouling using a scale and schedule appropriate cleaning measures.
Biofouling Record Book (BFRB)
- Maintain a BFRB onboard, recording all inspection and maintenance activities.
- Include details of AFS and Marine Growth Prevention System repairs, cleaning reports, and deviations from normal operating profiles.
Performance Monitoring
- Implement performance monitoring of hull and fuel performance during ship operation.
- Identify potential risks of increased biofouling accumulation and establish contingency action plans.
Environmental and Operational Benefits
Preventing the spread of marine invasive species through biofouling management not only ensures compliance with regulations but also aligns with broader environmental goals. Cleaner hulls result in improved hydrodynamic performance, lower fuel consumption, and reduced carbon emissions. Shipowners play a crucial role in maintaining the health of coastal ecosystems and supporting sustainable maritime practices.
Adhering to the IMO Biofouling Guidelines is not just a regulatory necessity; it is a commitment to preserving marine ecosystems and optimizing vessel performance. By incorporating the recommended practices, ship operators contribute to cleaner seas, reduced environmental impact, and a more sustainable future for global shipping.
