Based on an Open Internet search (not yet verified by STCWBOOKER): The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other related subcommittees have made significant progress toward an international ballast water management policy which includes a ballast water discharge standard. Even when fully loaded with cargo, ships commonly referred to as NOBOB’s (“No Ballast on Board”) are rarely completely empty of ballast water. There is clearance below the bell mouths of the ballast lines in the ballast tanks to avoid clogging that makes some water un-pumpable using standard ballast pumps. Source: https://greatlakes-seaway.com/en/commercial-shipping/transiting-the-seaway/ballast-water/
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