The 81st session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 81) concluded with significant advancements in addressing key ballast water challenges. MEPC 81, which took place 18-22 March 2024, saw the adoption of crucial amendments regarding the use of electronic water record books, reports Riviera.
MEPC 81
Regulation A-1 Definitions were updated to define electronic record books as approved systems by the Administration. Regulation B-2 Ballast Water Record Book was also amended to permit electronic record-keeping, subject to approval by the Administration. This move streamlines record-keeping processes, enhancing efficiency and compliance.
Recognising the complexities of water quality in ports for ballast water management systems (BWMS), MEPC 81 finalised interim guidance to aid ships and Administrations in navigating operations in challenging water quality conditions. The guidance outlines principles, procedures, and record-keeping practices, ensuring compliance with the Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC) despite challenging environments.
An associated guidance on the Temporary Storage of Sewage and Grey Water was addressed at MEPC 81 to overcome the ambiguity surrounding the temporary storage of treated sewage and grey water in ballast tanks. The finalised guidance provides clarity on separating grey water and sewage from ballast water, discharge compliance with Marpol Annex IV, uniform procedures, and meticulous record-keeping. This guidance promotes environmental stewardship while ensuring regulatory compliance.
Continuing the ongoing review of the Ballast Water Management Convention, MEPC 81 emphasised the need for harmonised approval processes for modifications to type-approved BWMS components. A Correspondence Group was re-established to address this issue and submit proposals for consideration at MEPC 82, with a focus on enhancing efficiency and standardisation.
MEPC 81 deliberated on challenges encountered by ships engaged in short voyages within water bodies shared by BWMC Parties.
Additionally, discussions centred on the frequency and methodology of sampling and analysis of ballast water discharge during flag state surveys to ensure BWMS compliance with regulation D-2, highlighting the commitment to robust enforcement and environmental protection.
The Committee endorsed a comprehensive list of provisions and instruments for revision and development under the Convention Review Plan, reaffirming its commitment to enhancing the effectiveness of the BWMC. This includes amendments to regulations, appendices and the development of new guidance to address emerging challenges effectively.
MEPC 81 granted basic approval for the ERMA FIRST FLOW ballast water management system, submitted by Denmark, which is a system that employs a two-phase treatment process, ensuring compliance with discharge standards while mitigating environmental impact.
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Source: Riviera
