The 3rd GloFouling Partnerships R&D Forum and Exhibition (4-8 November) has shone a spotlight on the harmful impacts of invasive aquatic species - along with innovative ways to halt their spread.
Held in Busan, Republic of Korea, the event brought together 250 participants from more than 26 countries and across diverse sectors to explore the latest advancements in biofouling management.
Biofouling is the accumulation of microorganisms, plants, algae and animals on ships' hulls or in ships' ballast water. They are often transferred to new locations where they outcompete native species, resulting in biodiversity loss.
The forum was co-organized by the Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MoF) and the Korea Research Institute of Ships & Ocean Engineering (KRISO), in collaboration with the GloFouling Partnerships Project - a joint initiative by IMO, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Global Environment Facility (GEF).
The event featured the premiere of 'Silent Invaders: The Unseen Impact of Invasive Aquatic Species', a documentary commissioned by the Global Industry Alliance (GIA) for Marine Biosafety, which explores the impacts of invasive aquatic species on ecosystems, environment and maritime industries worldwide.
New technology
The forum showcased cutting-edge biofouling management solutions, including anti-fouling coatings, in-water cleaning methods, and ultrasonic and ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (UV-LED) systems, and other digital innovations.
Experts presented the latest advancements in monitoring, testing, and framework development for early detection and rapid response for biofouling. Discussions also addressed the impact of biofouling on fuel efficiency, drawing on recent data showing how it increases greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships.
As hosts, Korean officials shared insights into the country's legislative and policy advancements, research on risk assessments, and technologies for biofouling treatment and prevention.
Participants witnessed and tried out some of these innovations first-hand during site visits around Busan, including:
- Dry-dock cleaning procedures and techniques (Orient Shipyard)
- Simulated realistic maritime conditions for testing ship manoeuvrability and stability (Ocean Engineering Basin facility of KRISO)
- Interactive regional technology demonstration (Tas Global Co. Ltd and SLM-Global)
- Advanced ballast water management and biofouling management testing facilities (Korean Institute of Ocean Science and Technology - KIOST, and Korea Marine Equipment Research Institute - KOMERI)
Biofouling in protected areas
A new publication by the GloFouling Partnerships Project was presented at the Forum, focusing on biofouling management strategies for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSAs). It includes a set of recommendations for the prevention, early detection and rapid response to invasive aquatic species in ecologically sensitive regions.
A framework to assess the risk of non-indigenous species in MPAs, focusing on the Eastern Tropical Pacific, was also introduced. This risk assessment model aims to better predict, prevent, and control the spread of invasive organisms in these zones.
Women in biofouling
A special interactive session was dedicated to advancing gender equality and supporting women's roles in the field. A panel of speakers shared personal experiences and views on gender balance, leadership and mentorship, while polls and audience engagement explored themes such as the role of male allies.
