Hazard and sustainability assessment of current antifouling coatings

Research Project, 2023 – 2026

Antifouling coatings that contain copper are the most common way to prevent fouling on ship hulls, but the resulting copper emissions can seriously affect marine ecosystems. Our previous research has shown that antifouling coatings account for one third of the total copper input to the Baltic Sea. According to a recent global study by Environmental Action, commissioned by the European Commission, coatings used in the maritime sector are also one of the largest sources of microplastics to the marine environment and waterways (0.8 Mt/year). Alternative (copper-free) coatings are available but these can also leach harmful substances such as non-copper biocides, microplastics and persistent substances such as PFAS. To date, no environmental impact assessment has been conducted for these alternative coatings, posing challenges for decision-makers and end-users in selecting more sustainable antifouling methods. The main aim of the project is to address this knowledge gap to determine which antifouling coating is the most sustainable alternative to copper coatings for ships in European waters. This project will combine field studies, laboratory experiments, and modelling to examine both efficacy and emissions (to water and air) associated with different antifouling coatings used in European waters.