New Rules. Same Challenges. Bawat’s Perspective from MEPC 83

29 April 2025

At Bawat, we deliver ballast water management solutions (BWMS) that are simple, sustainable, and effective—built around a patented, one-pass system that uses heat instead of chemicals, UV, or filters. Whether permanently installed onboard or delivered as a service during dry-docking or port stays, our systems are designed to keep fleets compliant in the real world.

As an active voice in the ballast water community, we participated in IMO’s MEPC 83 to help shape the regulatory future.

Key Highlights from MEPC 83

1. New mandatory CWQ testing is coming A performance evaluation test under Challenging Water Quality (CWQ) conditions will become mandatory in the BWMS Code for all new BWMS.

At Bawat, our ship-based systems are already prepared to meet these standards—because our technology has no issues operating in CWQ environments. We welcome this development and we are confident in our systems integrity and are taking steps to be first movers on championing the new requirements.

2. Contingency guidance still lags behind Clarifications were proposed for contingency measures in CWQ scenarios—but the proposal didn’t gather much support. This reflects an ongoing issue: shore-based and mobile systems remain underrepresented in the Convention,despite their growing importance in real-world compliance scenarios.

3. An invitation to shape the Convention We’re proud to now be part of the correspondence group working on the future of the BWM Convention. Our mission is clear: ensure the Convention better reflects the operational realities of shipping today, including the critical role mobile and land-based treatment play in achieving compliance.

4. Fuel, energy, and waste heat While ballast water management remains our core focus, we of course also noted the discussions at MEPC 83around fuel efficiency and decarbonisation. This only strengthens the relevance of Bawat's unique approach: Our onboard BWMS system uses waste heat on board to eliminate invasive species removing the need for additional energy sources to treat ballast water. This optimisation reduces fuel consumption, reducing operating costs and improving the vessels CII rating.

What this means for Bawat—and for you

The direction of the Convention is moving, albeit slowly, in a direction that aligns with Bawat’s commitment to practical, innovative compliance. Our  BWMS is CWQ-ready, and our Ballast-as-a-Service (BaaS) model continues to provide flexible, effective solutions when onboard systems fall short—whether during dry-docking, port operations, or emergencies.

While the Convention still lacks clear provisions for mobile and shore-based systems, this presents an opportunity. We have work to do—raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and leading by example. One thing is clear: the demand for flexible solutions is growing, and Bawat is ready to meet it.

The regulatory landscape is evolving. Slowly, yes—but unmistakably. At Bawat, we’re not just selling BWMS systems—we’re delivering services that keep ships compliant in the real world, and in a way that supports decarbonization goals.

Furthermore, it’s important for us to emphasize: the IMO Ballast Water Management Convention is a discharge convention—not an equipment convention. Compliance is not about what you install, but about what you discharge. And that’s exactly where Bawat delivers value.

Let’s talk about how Bawat can support your compliance strategy Learn more at www.bawat.com or contact us at info@bawat.com.

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