UNemballasjekrav

UNemballasjekrav, also known as the United Nations Deballasting Convention, is an international treaty aimed at reducing the environmental impact of ballast water and sediments from ships. The convention was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2004 and entered into force in 2017. It is the first legally binding instrument to address the issue of ballast water exchange, which can introduce invasive aquatic species and other harmful substances into new waters.

The convention requires signatory countries to implement measures to reduce the risk of the introduction of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens through ballast water exchange. These measures include the use of ballast water treatment systems, the prohibition of ballast water exchange in certain areas, and the establishment of national programs to monitor and control ballast water discharge.

The convention also establishes a framework for international cooperation and information exchange among signatory countries. It includes provisions for the establishment of a secretariat to support the implementation of the convention and to facilitate the exchange of information and best practices among signatory countries.

As of 2023, the convention has been ratified by 38 countries and is open for signature by all United Nations member states. It is an important step towards protecting the world's oceans and marine ecosystems from the impacts of ballast water exchange.