IMO’s “TEST Biofouling” project to tackle the transfer of invasive species via ship’s hulls will extend beyond its original terms after the IMO and the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation signed a no-cost extension.
The project will be extended until 31 December 2026.
The TEST Biofouling project reports that “scientific research is increasingly showing that biofouling of ships is a major vector for the transfer of invasive aquatic species from one marine ecosystem to another”. The Project adds that “substantial strides” have been made in addressing transfer via ballast water, and that, despite the implementation of new measures to regulate invasive species transfer via ballast water, “recent research suggested that the potential role of biofouling has been underestimated. In fact, biofouling might represent the most prevalent mechanism for the introduction of non-indigenous species”.
The Test Biofouling project demonstrates new technologies and methods of biofouling management through pilot projects. A wide range of projects include conducting vide assessments of biofouling on high-risk ships during port visits using Remotely Operated Vessels; also comparative testing of anti-fouling paints including both traditional hard anti-fouling paints and newer, environmentally friendly options, among other projects.
The IMO adds that the project supports the implementation of the 2023 IMO Biofouling Guidelines and complements actions undertaken by the GEF-UNDP-IMO GloFouling Partnerships Project.
