Tas Global Co., Ltd. is the latest addition to the Global Industry Alliance (GIA) for Marine Biosafety. A GloFouling Partnerships initiative formed for private sector to collaborate and address two of the most pressing environmental issues: invasive aquatic species and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships.
The ever-expanding group of GIA members are represented by a wide range of maritime industries affected by biofouling, including shipping, in-water cleaning, aquaculture, offshore oil and gas and ocean renewable energies.
One of the main pathways for invasive aquatic species introduction into the marine environment is biofouling. The accumulation of microorganisms, plants, algae, or small animals on ships’ hull and other wetted surfaces. In addition to the irreversible affects it can have for marine biodiversity, biofouling also increases the drag of ships, forcing them to burn more fuel to maintain speed and contribute to the higher GHG emission.
Yusik Kim, CEO of Tas Global, highlighted that the company’s main goal is to protect the environment.
“Every year 10 to 30 % of additional fuel is wasted, due to biofouling attached on ships hull.” If biofouling is not treated carefully “the waste can be discharged into the ocean and, potentially invasive, species can be introduced and overtake the ecosystems”, stated Yusik Kim. “The goals of Global Industry Alliance for Marine Biosafety are in line with Tas Global own goals, therefore, we are very proud to be part of this initiative”.
The first GIA Task Force meeting is planned at the end of October, where members will convene to discuss and kick-off the GIA work. More marine industry representatives are expected to join before the meeting.
For more information on how to join the GIA:
(All photos credit: Tas Global)