Ballast Water Management System (Yokohama Port, Kobe Port) - July 2003

Ballast Water Management System (Yokohama Port, Kobe Port) - July 2003

Detailed Overview of the Ballast Water Management System
The ballast water used by ships to maintain balance during navigation has become a significant cause of global ecosystem disruption and water pollution, as it facilitates the movement of harmful organisms and invasive species between marine areas. Specifically, Yokohama Port, Kobe Port, and Tokyo Bay have reported the intrusion of invasive species, negatively impacting the surrounding marine ecosystems. To address this issue, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted the "Ballast Water Management Convention" in 2004, making it mandatory for ships to manage ballast water properly.

According to the convention, all international vessels must install ballast water management systems by 2024. Technologies such as UV treatment, ozone treatment, and heat treatment are used to neutralize harmful organisms and pathogens in ballast water. For instance, Hitachi Zosen Corporation developed a UV treatment system, and Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. developed an ozone treatment system, both widely adopted domestically and internationally. These systems improve processing efficiency while reducing energy consumption by approximately 30% compared to conventional methods.

As of 2018, data shows that around 20 million tons of ballast water are treated annually in Japan, with Yokohama Port, Kobe Port, and Osaka Port leading in the adoption of ballast water management systems. This has significantly reduced the risk of ecosystem destruction and damage to fisheries caused by invasive species. It is expected that other ports will follow suit in the coming years.

Furthermore, major ship manufacturers, including Kawasaki Heavy Industries and IHI Corporation, are advancing the development of next-generation systems, which offer even higher efficiency and cost savings. Through these efforts, Japan is demonstrating leadership in ballast water management technology, contributing to environmental protection and the sustainability of the shipping industry.