Ballast Water Treatment
Ballast water treatment is a process used by ships to manage the water they take on for stability. Ships often fill their ballast tanks with water to balance their weight, but this water can contain various organisms, including bacteria, plants, and small animals. When ships discharge this water in different locations, it can introduce non-native species, disrupting local ecosystems.
To prevent this, ships use ballast water treatment systems that filter and disinfect the water before it is released. These systems employ methods like ultraviolet light, chemical treatments, or filtration to kill or remove harmful organisms, helping to protect marine biodiversity and maintain ecological balance.