| Abstract | BALMAS project integrates all necessary activities to enable a long-term, environmentally efficient, and financially and maritime transport sustainable implementation of BWM (Ballast Water Management) measures in the Adriatic. The general BALMAS objective is to establish a common cross-border system linking all Adriatic research, experts and national responsible authorities to avoid the unwanted risks to the environment and humans from the transfer of HAOP (Harmful Aquatic Organism and Patogenous), through the control and management of ships’ BW and sediments. Further, developments will be encouraged in related knowledge and technology at cross-border level for a long-term effective BWM in the Adriatic according to the BWM Convention, Europe wide developments and local specifics. Short term changes to be achieved by BALMAS include a better protection from unwanted impacts of HAOP. By developing a joint Adriatic BWM DSS, BWM Plan and Strategy, BALMAS will ensure uniform BWM requirements to ease shipping and at the same time to maximise environmental and economical protection of all sea users. |
