Vessel Biofouling Prevention and Management Options Report
Abstract
This report assesses the state of technology and regulatory initiatives relating to in-water hull cleaning of vessels for biofouling remediation. Biofouling is a significant transport method for aquatic nuisance species (ANS), with ships and boats as the carriers. Information was gathered through internet research, review of a prior USCG report, and interviews of stakeholders in government, academia, equipment vendors, diving companies, and the commercial shipping industry. Many of the interviews took place in person at a government-sponsored conference covering in-water hull cleaning. Regulatory efforts are fragmented internationally and among state and local jurisdictions, with governments taking different approaches, and with regulations in various stages of development. Management practices are in place, proven technological solutions are commercially available, and new approaches are under development. Despite advances however, optimal solutions are elusive because ship operators and equipment manufacturers do not have clear standards or certification requirements for design or management. Biofouling solutions are evolving in parallel with the development of requirements. Cost estimates attributed to biofouling regulations vary widely and accuracy is affected by many factors. Among these are the lack of clear regulatory requirements, and the subjectivity inherent in allocating costs between regulatory compliance and sound business practices.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2015
- Accession Number
- ADA626612
Entities
People
- C. Zabin
- D. Elam
- I. Davidson
- Richard W. Young
- T. Mcclay
Organizations
- United States Coast Guard Research & Development Center