Environment

Ballast water is critical to the safe operation of ocean-going vessels. However, during ballast water exchange, thousands of aquatic organisms and pathogens can stowaway and be transported from one part of the world to another. The transfer of these organisms in ships' ballast water can have devastating effects on the marine environment and ultimately the health and well-being of the people who depend on it. The International Maritime Organisation 2004 Ballast Water Convention was drawn up to address these issues.