The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) proudly participated in the Norway–Fiji–IMO Side Event at the UN Oceans Conference (UNOC2025), joining international partners to confront one of the most pressing threats to marine biodiversity: invasive aquatic species—primarily spread through ballast water and biofouling in global shipping operations.
The Global Challenge:
– 25% of marine invasive species introductions are linked to ballast water discharge.
– Over 35,000 alien species have been recorded worldwide—many transported through shipping.
– The need for binding international regulations is more urgent than ever.
In response, Canada, Fiji, Finland, France, Mexico, Norway, Peru, and the Republic of Korea jointly submitted a landmark paper calling for a legally binding framework for the control and management of ships’ biofouling. This proposal received key support at the IMO’s MEPC 83 meeting.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) reaffirmed its dedication to ocean protection through legal instruments and projects like the:
– GloFouling Partnerships Project
– GloBallast Partnerships Programme
As committed advocate for sustainable maritime practices, SAMSA supports:
– The adoption of legally binding IMO guidelines on biofouling management
– Stronger Port and Flag State obligations for invasive species control
– Enhanced regional cooperation to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species
A Call to Collective Action:
– Protecting our oceans is a shared global responsibility.
– To achieve sustainable oceans and a thriving blue economy, green and responsible shipping must lead the way.