Live demos, practical training boost biofouling action in Sri Lanka

A National Technology Demonstration and Training Workshop held in Colombo, Sri Lanka (23 to 26 June) brought together government agencies, industry stakeholders, tech providers and international experts to strengthen collaboration on the implementation of the IMO's Biofouling Guidelines.

The Guidelines provide a globally consistent approach to managing biofouling - the accumulation of aquatic organisms on ships' hulls. The aim is to minimise the spread of invasive aquatic species between marine environments and help protect marine biodiversity.

The workshop was hosted by the Sri Lanka's Marine Environmental Protection Authority (MEPA) and delivered under the IMO-Norad TEST Biofouling Project in cooperation with the African Maritime Technology Cooperation Centre (MTCC-Africa).

From theory to real-time knowledge

The interactive sessions focused on exchanging experiences and encouraged peer-to-peer learning among all stakeholders. Participants engaged in technical discussions, practical exercises and scenario-based group work covering a range of topics: biofouling risk assessment, in-water inspection methodologies and in-water cleaning.

A highlight of the workshop was a live ROV-based underwater inspection demonstration at Colombo Dockyard. Participants observed a complete in-water vessel inspection in real time, including niche area assessment, biofouling rating interpretation, and digital inspection software capturing live observations. The hands-on session allowed participants to understand the practical application of classroom learning.

Next steps in biofouling management regulation

Government officials noted that the knowledge gained through the workshop will help operationalise the country's National Biofouling Management Strategy and Action Plan, developed under the GEF-UNDP-IMO GloFouling Partnerships project.

At the closing session, MEPA representatives further signalled its intention to establish a registration and permitting framework for in-water service providers as an initial step in advancing national biofouling management.

Participants left motivated to apply their new knowledge within their own organisations. MEPA encouraged all stakeholders to remain engaged as Sri Lanka continues to develop its national biofouling management framework.