Many invasive alien species have been introduced to coastal 
and inland water ecosystems globally through ballast water 
discharges {3.2.3.1}. For example, following its introduction its 
introduction via ballast water discharge, Dreissena polymorpha
(zebra mussel) has become widespread in the Great Lakes 
of North America {Box 2.9}. Dreissena polymorpha has been 
implicated in the transfer of botulinum toxin to higher trophic 
levels, which has been further 
facilitated by climate change, 
specifically by increased water 
temperatures, leading to mortality 
of waterfowl in the Great Lakes 
{Box 4.5}. Furthermore, the shells 
of Dreissena polymorpha can 
cause skin injuries to recreational 
swimmers and commercial fishers 
{Box 4.15}. The International 
Maritime Organization has 
developed an international 
instrument to address the transfer 
of harmful aquatic organisms 
and pathogens in ballast water 
of maritime vessels {5.5.1}. The 
International Convention for the 
Control and Management of Ships' 
Ballast Water and Sediments 
was adopted by the International 
Maritime Organization in 2004 and 
came into force in 2017 {5.5.1}. 
 <Section-header> Box SPM 2 The International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' 
Ballast Water and Sediments: an example of international collaboration to 
prevent biological invasions. </Section-header> 

29SUMMARY FOR POLICYMAKERS
19SUMMARY FOR POLICYMAKERS
BACKGROUND
Box SPM 2 The International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' 
Ballast Water and Sediments: an example of international collaboration to 
prevent biological invasions.