BS ISO 20679:2025 - Ships and Marine Technology: Marine Environment Protection

Introducing the BS ISO 20679:2025, a comprehensive standard dedicated to the protection of the marine environment through the effective testing of ship biofouling in-water cleaning systems. This standard is an essential resource for professionals in the maritime industry, environmental protection agencies, and anyone involved in the maintenance and operation of marine vessels.

Overview

The BS ISO 20679:2025 standard provides detailed guidelines and methodologies for testing the efficiency and environmental impact of in-water cleaning systems used to manage biofouling on ships. Biofouling, the accumulation of aquatic organisms on submerged surfaces, poses significant challenges to the maritime industry, including increased fuel consumption, higher emissions, and the potential spread of invasive species.

Key Features

• Standard Number: BS ISO 20679:2025
• Pages: 48
• Release Date: January 17, 2025
• ISBN: 978 0 539 27030 3
• Status: Standard

Importance of Biofouling Management

Biofouling management is crucial for maintaining the operational efficiency of ships and protecting marine ecosystems. The accumulation of marine organisms on hulls and other submerged surfaces can lead to increased drag, resulting in higher fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, biofouling can facilitate the transfer of invasive species, which can disrupt local ecosystems and cause significant ecological and economic damage.

Comprehensive Testing Guidelines

The BS ISO 20679:2025 standard outlines rigorous testing procedures to evaluate the performance of in-water cleaning systems. These guidelines ensure that the systems effectively remove biofouling while minimizing harm to the marine environment. The standard covers various aspects of testing, including:

• Assessment of cleaning efficiency and effectiveness
• Evaluation of environmental impact and compliance with regulations
• Testing under different environmental conditions and operational scenarios
• Documentation and reporting of test results

Benefits of Compliance

Adhering to the BS ISO 20679:2025 standard offers numerous benefits for ship operators and the maritime industry as a whole:

• Enhanced Operational Efficiency: By ensuring effective biofouling management, ships can maintain optimal performance, reduce fuel consumption, and lower operational costs.
• Environmental Protection: The standard promotes environmentally responsible practices, helping to preserve marine biodiversity and prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with international standards facilitates adherence to environmental regulations and enhances the reputation of shipping companies.
• Innovation and Improvement: The standard encourages the development and adoption of advanced cleaning technologies, driving innovation in the maritime industry.

Who Should Use This Standard?

The BS ISO 20679:2025 standard is an invaluable resource for a wide range of stakeholders, including:

• Shipowners and operators seeking to improve vessel performance and reduce environmental impact
• Marine engineers and maintenance personnel responsible for biofouling management
• Environmental protection agencies and regulatory bodies overseeing marine conservation efforts
• Researchers and developers of in-water cleaning technologies

Conclusion

The BS ISO 20679:2025 standard represents a significant advancement in the field of marine environment protection. By providing clear and comprehensive guidelines for testing ship biofouling in-water cleaning systems, it supports the maritime industry in achieving sustainable operations and safeguarding marine ecosystems. Embrace this standard to enhance your environmental stewardship and operational efficiency.

BS ISO 20679:2025

This standard BS ISO 20679:2025 Ships and marine technology. Marine environment protection. Testing of ship biofouling in-water cleaning systems is classified in these ICS categories:

• 47.020.99 Other standards related to shipbuilding and marine structures
• 13.020.99 Other standards related to environmental protection