The introduction of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens to new environments via ships’ ballast water is considered one of the greatest environmental challenges facing the global shipping industry, and requires the urgent development of innovative management and treatment measures. When the ballast water or sediment is discharged into a port state’s water, it can lead to the establishment of harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens that are a threat to native human, animal and plant life and the marine environment. The paper informs about IMO International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships´ Ballast Water and Sediments, described requirements for ballast water managements systems on ships and shown the latest commercial technologies for ballast water treatment.

Keywords: harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens, IMO International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships´ Ballast Water and Sediments, treatment process, technologies for ballast water treatment