How can ballast water threaten our coastline, and what can be done about it?
Invasive marine species like the clinging jellyfish, Asian shore crab, and various algae are becoming more common along the Norwegian coast. This is not a coincidence, it’s a clear reminder of the environmental impact of untreated ballast water discharged from ships. As the maritime industry continues to grow, so does the risk of spreading non-native species across ecosystems.
In this article, we explore how ballast water contributes to this issue and how advanced treatment systems like TeamTec’s Senza BWMS are helping protect marine biodiversity, starting right here in Norway.
Understanding the threat to our coastline
When vessels take in ballast water in one part of the world and discharge it in another, they can unintentionally transport everything from bacteria and plankton to crabs, jellyfish, and fish. Once introduced, these non-native species can disrupt the local marine environment, sometimes permanently.
"Invasive species affect the local ecological environment in the ocean. Some of these species could lead to annihilation of any regular species living locally and change the complete ecosystem on our coastline," explains Olav Valsvik, Head of Sales – BWMS at TeamTec.
In Norway, researchers and environmental groups are raising concerns over the growing number of introduced species in southern waters, including the Skagerrak coast. The presence of species like the clinging jellyfish is a wake-up call. and ballast water is often a key factor.
"With vessels arriving from all over the world, their ballast water can introduce everything from micro-organisms to larger species like fish, clams, jellyfish, etc.," Olav Valsvik adds.
How Senza BWMS helps
At TeamTec, ballast water treatment isn’t just about compliance, it’s about creating real, practical solutions for long-term environmental protection. Senza BWMS is a filter-free, energy-efficient system developed and produced in Norway. Its design is based on simplicity, reliability, and proven results.
"When ballasting the vessel, sodium hypochlorite is injected to the ballast water and immediately starts treating the water to ensure that the water quality during de-ballasting in next port is within the demands set by IMO and USCG," says Olav Valsvik.
This immediate treatment approach ensures effectiveness regardless of where or when the vessel discharges its ballast water. Because it operates without filters, Senza BWMS also eliminates clogging issues common in muddy waters and ports around the world.
"Shipowners appreciate the simplicity for both operation and maintenance with our Senza BWMS. No filters drastically reduce the issues while operating in muddy waters in all kinds of ports," Olav Valsvik notes.
Looking ahead
Ballast water treatment systems are now standard on vessels around the world, and the need for smarter, simpler systems is only growing.
"Looking forward, there will always be a need to develop smarter and easier systems. This will be challenging, but luckily, TeamTec has a long history leading the way with our products," Olav Valsvik concludes.
Summary
The spread of invasive species along the Norwegian coast is a visible consequence of global shipping practices. Untreated ballast water plays a key role in this development, but solutions exist. With systems like Senza BWMS, shipowners can comply with international regulations while actively protecting marine ecosystems.
This is not just a regulatory issue, it’s a matter of environmental responsibility. And with the right technology, it’s a challenge we can meet.
