ECOsubsea: Closed-Loop Hull Cleaning Is a Regulatory Imperative

The shipping industry faces mounting regulatory pressure to mitigate the transfer of invasive species via hull biofouling. The global detrimental impacts of sea vomit (Didemnum vexillum) is just one stark example of the damage caused by unmanaged hull fouling. The solution is clear: closed-loop hull cleaning must become an industry standard, writes Abigail Robinson, Vice President of Sustainability at ECOsubsea, applauding the IMO's recent decisive action to align regulations with operational best practices.

AN URGENT BUT UNDER-REGULATED THREAT

The spread of invasive species via ship hulls is not a new concern for shipping and regulators. While most industry stakeholders recognise the risks posed by biofouling—from increased drag and fuel consumption to environmental degradation and potential regulatory penalties – there remains a significant regulatory gap. Unlike ballast water, which is now subject to international regulations, hull biofouling remains underregulated despite profound implications for both vessel performance and marine ecosystems.

In-water hull cleaning introduces additional pollution risks. Many antifouling coatings work by leaching heavy metal-based toxins to deter biofouling growth. These products are typically polymer based and a large source of micro-plastic pollution into the ocean over time. It is estimated that marine coatings release over 210,000 tons of micro-plastic annually in