In the international maritime industry, the most hot topic at present is undoubtedly the implementation of D-2 Convention. but there are many uncertainties related to the implementation is still in suspense, remain to be clarified.

D-2 compliance date: -If it will naturally come into force at this Sept.; -or called “B-3” will be agreed; – or some other new schedule be concluded.

Guidance for Ballast Water Management Plan: -Expect more clear and pragmatic guidance which is based on BWTS technology adopted and accumulated experience from operating it; -Guidance for crew training to ensure the crews are adequately trained and acknowledgeable in the operation of BWTS; -Guidance for the operational and maintenance manuals to ensure it be well illustrated the comprehensive details, such as functionality/operation/troubleshooting, etc.; -Excution of the compliance method utilized on board.

Guidance for contingency response: -In case of system failure; -Encountered heavy weather; -Route restriction.

The roadmap of implementation of BWM Convention: -How many vessels have installed BWTS; -What is the common issue or challenges faced during its installation/commissioning/operation; -D-2 compliance rate and degree and the influence factor of non-compliance; -Guidance for PSC supervise.

the compliance date is approaching, shipowner/operators have already been doing their utmost to find ways to meet the Convention, but if MEPC71 isn’t able to make a clear decision and clarification, the remaining uncertainty facing owner/operator, the port states and other related parties, would challenge the implementation of the Convention. let’s hope the MEPC71 meeting will have a successful solution on it.

Source: Danny Jiao