The Ballast Water Management Convention is an international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens through ships' ballast water. Ships take on ballast water to maintain stability, but this water can contain invasive species that disrupt local ecosystems when discharged in new locations. The convention sets standards for managing ballast water to minimize these risks. Adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2004, the convention requires ships to implement ballast water management plans and use approved treatment systems. Compliance helps protect marine biodiversity and supports sustainable shipping practices worldwide.