Published on 14 Aug 2024
World AffairsBallast Water Management (BWM) Convention International Maritime Organization (IMO)
The Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention was adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2004 to prevent the spread of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens via ships' ballast water.
It came into force on 8 September 2017
Key Guidelines:
Ballast Water Management Plan (BWMP): Ships must have an approved plan for managing ballast water and sediments.
Ballast Water Exchange (Regulation D-1): Ships must exchange ballast water in open ocean areas.
Ballast Water Performance Standard (Regulation D-2): Ships must treat ballast water to meet specific biological standards.
Sediment Management: Proper management and disposal of ballast tank sediments are required.
Record Keeping: Ships must maintain a record book for all ballast water operations.
Certification: Ships need regular surveys and an International Ballast Water Management Certificate to confirm compliance.