The introduction of non-native species via the discharge of shipās ballast water is one of the main threats to marine biodiversity, with alien species often capable of out-competing native species ā effective ballast water management (BWM) and the dissemination of good practice are thus essential throughout the marine community, which is why the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) is the host of a BWM Special Interest Group, the Ballast Water Expert Group (BWEG). āFriends of BWEGā include the International Maritime Organizationās GloBallast Partnerships Project, which is supporting the inaugural IMarEST Ballast Water Technology Conference, with its theme āImpending Convention Requirements and Challengesā.