- APS reinstates ballast water compliance regulation after court ruling.
- The court ruled that Antaq exceeded its authority in nullifying APS’s regulation.
- Regulation prevents bioinvasion, protecting marine life and coastal communities.
- APS continues accreditation for compliance certification per IMO and Navy standards.
As of 12:00 AM on Thursday (02/13), the Santos Port Authority (APS) has reactivated its regulation requiring ships to present a certificate of compliance with international ballast water disposal rules. This reinstatement follows a ruling by the Federal Regional Court of the 1st Region, which suspended a previous decision that had invalidated the measure.
On February 11, the court in Brasília ruled that the National Waterway Transport Agency (Antaq) had overstepped its authority when it nullified the APS regulation in September of the previous year, according to DatamarNews.
Addressing Environmental Concerns
The regulation aims to enhance environmental protection at the Port of Santos, which is increasingly affected by bioinvasion—the introduction of non-native species into local ecosystems. These invasive species threaten marine biodiversity, disrupt subsistence fishing, and cause significant environmental and social harm.
APS President Anderson Pomini emphasized the port’s commitment to environmental safety, stating: “The Port must be a leader not only in cargo handling but also in environmental control. Other tools and actions will be implemented soon to strengthen local environmental protection.”
Accreditation and Compliance Procedures
APS is continuing its accreditation process for companies authorized to issue compliance certificates. These companies must utilize advanced technology to verify that vessels either discharge ballast water in designated areas or implement filtration systems in line with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards and Brazilian Navy regulations (Normam 401/DPC).
The Role of Ballast Water in Maritime Operations
Ballast water is essential for stabilizing ships, particularly when they are lightly loaded. By storing water in onboard tanks, vessels maintain balance, ensuring proper propeller submersion and reducing the risk of structural failure or capsizing during adverse weather conditions. The amount of ballast water required depends on cargo volume—less cargo necessitates more ballast water, which is then discharged once the ship is sufficiently loaded.
Environmental and Public Health Risks
Despite its importance in navigation, ballast water can introduce hazardous substances, including sewage and toxic materials, while also transporting living organisms across regions. Many of these species, lacking natural predators, multiply rapidly, competing with native marine life and disrupting ecosystems. Additionally, pathogenic bacteria and harmful microorganisms carried in discharged ballast water pose risks to public health, making strict regulatory enforcement crucial for environmental safety.
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Source: DatamarNews
