Chapter 1. Introduction -- Chapter 2 -- Vessels and Ballast Water -- Chapter 3. The Transfer of Harmful Aquatic Organisms and Pathogens with Ballast Water and their Impacts -- Chapter 4. Policy and Legal Framework and the Current Status of Ballast Water Management Requirements -- Chapter 5. Ballast Water Management under the Ballast Water Management Convention -- Chapter 6. Ballast Water Management Systems for Vessels -- Chapter 7. Risk Assessment in Ballast Water Management -- Chapter 8. Ballast Water Sampling and Sample Analysis for Compliance Control -- Chapter 9. Ballast Water Management Decision Support System -- Chapter 10. Ballast Water Management Decision Support System Model Application -- Chapter 11. Overall Conclusions on the Ballast Water Issue and its Management Options.

Ballast water management is a complex subject with many issues and still limited knowledge, however, it is building up on new scientific researches and practical experience. The Ballast Water Management Convention is the global legal framework which still needs to be implemented. This book brings together a long-term and newest experience from practical work, scientific research, administration and policy involvements, offering unique insights to readers who would like to learn more about this subject. It also provides recommendations and practical solutions especially important for professionals, administrations and organizations in the process of the implementation of this Ballast Water Management Convention.