By Nick Cowley, president of Cathelco The relationship between biofouling management and the maritime industry is a complicated one. Despite the proven benefits of limiting biofouling growth—including emissions reduction, protection of ecosystems,
Nick Cowley.
By Nick Cowley, president of Cathelco
The relationship between biofouling management and the maritime industry is a complicated one. Despite the proven benefits of limiting biofouling growth—including emissions reduction, protection of ecosystems, and improved vessel performance—it remains an overlooked solution for shipowners.
The 83rd session of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) in April focused heavily on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, another key decision was also made, to begin work on a legally binding international convention on the control and management of ships’ biofouling.
As a result, biofouling is finally being recognized and treated as a key driver of fuel consumption and emissions, rather than just a gateway for invasive species. Although the framework’s implementation will not begin until 2026, with a convention unlikely to be finalized before 2029, acknowledging the problem is a good first step. It’s up to vessel owners now
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