Study warns of environmental disaster from stranded ships amid Iran conflict

A new study has warned of a potential environmental disaster caused by commercial ships stranded for months due to the Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Researchers from the University of Maryland and Woods Hole Institute based their concerns on the massive spread of invasive marine species, microorganisms, and algae accumulating on the hulls of these vessels, raising alarms about imminent biofouling pollution.

According to Asharq, the International Maritime Organization issued recommendations three years ago for ships typically anchored for 18 to 30 days to take immediate measures to reduce biofouling risks.

The researchers also noted that current regulations are insufficient to address the potential impacts of the large-scale, unplanned stoppage of vessels resulting from the conflict with Iran. They warned that resuming movement of these ships could lead to the widespread dispersal of invasive marine species that would be difficult to contain.