IMO MEPC.71 meeting in London

Albion Marine Solutions is pleased to participate  in the  IMO MEPC.71 meeting as part of Canadian delegation.

Number of important issues being discussed : BWM Convention, Air Pollution and Energy Efficiency, GHG Emission Reduction and Amendments to Mandatory Instruments.

Here are some key points in relation to IMO Ballast Water Management Convention:

  • Probably a topic which attracts most of the attention is a proposal by Brazil at al to extend the implementation timelines for existing vessels by another two years – compliance  would require by first IOPP renewal after September 8, 2019.  With some additional provisions this proposal is backed up by submissions  from China and Greece .
  • Extension of the IMO BWM Convention to vessels below 400 GRT.
  • Code for Approval of BWMS will likely will be made mandatory. A number of guidelines will need to be updated accordingly.
  • Submissions for  IMO Approval and Final Approval:
    • Type Approval: Damen Invasave 300, Semb-Eco LUV 500 and 1500, Kurita BWMS, ATPS-BLUEsys
    • Basic Approval: Microfade II BWMS, Envirocleanse inTank BWTS
    • Final Approval: ECS-Hybrid BWMS
  • Guidance on System Design Limitations as part of the  revised G8 will be discussed. It is aimed to assist Shipowners to consider the equipment limitations in selection process.
  • Changes to Type Approval  - Guidelines G8 and G9. 11 documents pertaining to this topic have been submitted .
  • Experience Building Phase document  developed by working group led by Canada will be discussed. Implementation of Regulation B-4.
  • Review number of proposals related  to operation in areas where ballast water exchange can not be performed due to distance to shore or depth. is as important as taking a decision on the implementation schedule  and
  • Contingency measures when a ship cannot meet the D-2 standard. 

Please stay tuned for an update on outcome of the IMO MEPC.71  discussions.