BALLAST WATER MANAGEMENT FOR EGYPTIAN PORTS ? IS THERE A NEED FOR A DECISION

Ballast water has been identified as the main vector for the introduction of alien and harmful organisms into coastal zone waters, from which can originate ecological, social and economic impacts. In response to this problem, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has adopted the “International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments” (2004), Port Authorities are responsible for leading the programs and measures of environmental control at their organized port areas mostly through the process of environmental licensing of ports. This paper will provide an overview of the current international provisions, mainly those established by the IMO on the matter, as well as describe how the subject is currently dealt with in Egypt. This study also intends to identify legal requirements and procedures for ballast water management in the United States and European countries that could be applied in Egypt. Regarding the role of ports in the national ballast water management program, this study will also review the possibility of establishing standardized procedures for environmental licensing of ports and terminals in Egypt, including the necessary criteria for ballast water management.