Transport Canada launches a new Ballast Water Innovation Program

In an effort to reduce the spread of aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River region, Transport Canada has announced $12.5 million in funding to launch the Ballast Water Innovation Program under Canada's Oceans Protection Plan.

The funding is intended to support research projects submitted by ship owners and operators, port authorities, government and academic organizations, and non-profit organizations to find effective and innovative ballast water management solutions.

To address these technical challenges and prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, the program’s objectives are to:

• Fund research projects that ensure ballast water management systems are optimized for the unique aquatic environments of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence region;
• Provide innovative solutions to ensure the successful implementation of new ballast water regulations and prevent the entry and spread of aquatic invasive species in the region;
• Enable the Government of Canada to further develop its technical expertise on issues related to the ballast water management system;
• Inform Canada's discussions with the United States and other countries to establish more compatible rules and enhance environmental protection.

The deadline for project submissions is May 10, 2023, and the implementation of approved projects is expected to begin later this year.