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.
