The oceans are the foundation of the global climate system — and the shipping industry depends on them entirely. Yet the standard solution to biofouling slowly poisons the very environment shipping depends on.

Modern antifouling coatings continuously release copper and other biocides into harbour waters. These chemicals accumulate in seabed sediments, enter the food chain through shellfish and crustaceans, and disrupt the reproductive systems of marine life. In many of the world’s busiest ports, the water directly beneath docked vessels is among the most chemically contaminated marine habitat on the planet.

This trade-off is becoming unsustainable. Environmental regulations are tightening globally, placing increasing restrictions on the use of biocides and harmful coatings in marine environments.

The future of shipping will require solutions that meet both performance and regulatory demands — without compromising the health of the ocean..