Biofouling Management Outlook for 2025
83rd Session of MEPC
Scheduled for April 7–11, 2025, the MEPC’s 83rd session will address the development of a legally binding framework for the control and management of ships’ biofouling. This initiative, proposed by several member states including Canada, Fiji, Finland, France, Mexico, Norway, Peru, and the Republic of Korea, aims to create mandatory requirements to curb the spread of invasive aquatic species through biofouling.
The need for a legally binding framework stems from the significant environmental threat posed by invasive species. The spread of these species through biofouling has been recognized as a major issue, and proponents of the framework argue that enforceable regulations are necessary to ensure effective global management. Establishing such a framework aligns with the IMO’s strategic objective of maintaining its role as the global regulator of shipping. A mandatory system would enhance compliance and provide greater uniformity in biofouling management compared to the existing voluntary guidelines.
Discussions at MEPC 83 will likely focus on the potential structure of the framework, including specific requirements for hull cleaning schedules, antifouling system maintenance, and record-keeping obligations. The proposed framework may integrate with existing IMO instruments, such as the Ballast Water Management Convention, to ensure consistency. A risk-based approach is also under consideration, which would require ships operating in high-risk areas to implement stricter biofouling management measures.
The implementation of a legally binding framework presents several challenges. One key consideration is balancing the environmental benefits of stricter biofouling management with the economic impact on shipping operations. Additionally, coordination with national regulations will be necessary to avoid conflicts and duplications. The framework must also account for different ship types and operational profiles to ensure feasibility across the maritime industry.
If approved as an output, the framework will be developed through an intersessional working group. This process will involve extensive stakeholder engagement, including consultations with industry representatives, environmental organizations, and port authorities. Ongoing research projects such as the GloFouling Partnerships will also contribute scientific insights to help shape effective biofouling control measures.
Continuation of the GloFouling & TEST Projects
The GloFouling Partnerships Project is a collaborative initiative between the GEF, UNDP, and IMO. It’s on track to meet its targets, with the project extended to 2025. There’s also been agreement on a revised work plan and budget for the project’s new duration.
The PCU and delegates have approved the proposed work plan (2022–2025), designed to redistribute activities until the project’s new end date of May 31, 2025. They also agreed on corrective and adaptive actions to ensure the project achieves its desired results and goals. The TEST Biofouling Project will run for four years (2022–2025).
The 2025 World Maritime Day Theme
The IMO has chosen “Our Ocean – Our Obligation – Our Opportunity” as the theme for World Maritime Day 2025. According to the IMO, this emphasizes the ocean’s role in global trade, sustainability, and climate regulation. The event, celebrated on September 25, 2025, will focus on the importance of sustainable practices and their connection to broader environmental initiatives such as the BBNJ Agreement, plastic pollution reduction efforts, and the third UN Ocean Conference in June 2025.
IMO’s Secretary-General’s New Year Message for 2025
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez outlined four priorities for 2025: seafarers, global security, decarbonization, and ocean sustainability. His message emphasized supporting seafarers, maintaining maritime security, achieving full decarbonization of the sector by 2050, and ensuring ocean sustainability, with biofouling management playing a crucial role in meeting these objectives – something we can all agree on.
A recap of 2023 IMO Biofouling Guidelines
In case you missed it, the International Maritime Organization introduced new guidelines to tackle biofouling in July 2023. These guidelines provide a global biofouling management plan to help ships reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions, and prevent invasive species transfer. The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) refined best practices for antifouling systems, record-keeping, inspections, and risk management.
It’s well researched that biofouling is a major threat to a ship’s hydrodynamic performance. It can increase greenhouse gas emissions by up to 30% due to added drag on ships. This not only harms the environment but also raises operational costs for shipping companies. Understanding these guidelines remains essential for sustainable and efficient maritime operations.
Key Aspects of the 2023 IMO Biofouling Guidelines
Antifouling Systems (AFS)
Antifouling systems prevent aquatic species from attaching to ships’ hulls. The updated guidelines promote ultrasonic antifouling and low-toxicity coatings to reduce ecological impact. The MEPC encourages using AFS alongside cleaning and monitoring strategies to improve efficiency.
The guidelines also include best practices for monitoring installed antifouling systems, antifouling coating, and marine growth prevention systems. Companies should check the condition and functionality of these systems installed on board.
Biofouling Management Plan (BMP)
A ship-specific biofouling management plan (BMP) is front-and center in the IMOs biofouling guidelines. It details cleaning schedules, anti-fouling system applications, and contingency measures. The IMO biofouling prevention guidelines stress proper documentation to make sure the management of ships follows best practices.
Companies should review their existing BMPs to ensure they reflect the implementation of the updated guidelines. For instance, an effective BMP must be vessel-specific and should be included in the ship’s operational documentation. It should also have enough detail for the crew to implement the specified biofouling management activities.
In this article we provide a step-by-step guide to biofouling and it’s management.
Biofouling Record Book
The biofouling record book logs all hull maintenance, inspections, and biofouling treatments. The updated guidelines also include updates for the biofouling record book.
Companies should review their existing biofouling record books to make sure they reflect the implementation of the updated guidelines. The IMO biofouling management guidelines also include the provision for electronic record-keeping.
Inspections
Regular inspections are critical for biofouling control. IMO’s guidelines suggest systematic checks of hulls, niches, and other submerged structures. Early detection prevents excessive biofouling, reduces maintenance costs, and ensures compliance with port state regulations.
The guidelines also introduce a fouling rating system with four levels of evaluation:
- 2 (two): Light macrofouling
- 3 (three): Medium macrofouling
- 4 (four): Heavy macrofouling
After inspection, vessel companies must note the following in their biofouling record book:
- Date and location of inspection
- Methods used for inspection (including inspection tools/devices)
- Areas inspected on the ship
- Observations with regard to biofouling (extent of microfouling and macrofouling in line with the defined fouling rates)
- Observations with regard to antifouling system condition
- Reference to any supporting evidence/reports of the inspection
Performance Monitoring
The IMO encourages tracking the effectiveness of AFS, cleaning schedules, and biofouling levels. Performance data helps ship operators improve their maintenance strategies, lower emissions, and maintain energy efficiency without unnecessary interventions.
Contingency Planning
Unexpected biofouling issues demand immediate action. IMO’s guidelines also include contingency planning, encouraging ships to have predefined response measures. This includes emergency cleaning, alternative routing, or adjustments to antifouling strategies.
Risk Assessment
Risk assessments allow ship owners to identify factors influencing biofouling accumulation, such as water temperature, vessel speed, and lay-up periods. IMO’s guidelines mandate thorough risk evaluations to inform management decisions. With this proactive approach, ships can avoid excessive fouling and reduce both environmental impact and maintenance costs.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning prevents biofouling buildup and maintains efficiency. IMO guidelines recommend in-water cleaning with approved methods to avoid ecological disturbance. Dry-docking is still essential for deeper cleaning and AFS reapplication, but a consistent approach to maintenance helps reduce drag, cut fuel use, and extend hull lifespan.
Reporting
The IMO also mandates biofouling-related reporting. That means ships must submit biofouling status updates to authorities to stay transparent and improve regulatory oversight. Standardized reporting allows the authorities to monitor and mitigate biofouling risks effectively.
The new guidelines also include samples for cleaning reports.
Training and Awareness
Effective biofouling management depends on crew awareness. IMO’s guidelines emphasize training on best practices, AFS maintenance, and regulatory compliance. Educated crews can ensure proper biofouling control, reduce risks, and improve long-term sustainability in maritime operations.
Adhere to IMO’s Guidelines for Marine Preservation
Biofouling management is entering a critical phase in 2025. With the IMO advancing regulations, ship operators must adopt efficient, sustainable solutions. Compliance isn’t just about meeting guidelines—it’s about enhancing performance, reducing emissions, and protecting marine ecosystems.
As new policies take effect, proactive biofouling strategies will be essential for long-term success. You can stay compliant and improve efficiency with the right antifouling technology.
