Antifouling Together with Respect for the Environment

Talk of “organic antifouling” is something of an oxymoron: by definition, antifouling paint is a biocide designed to kill or prevent the adhesion of living organisms. This is completely at odds with the concept of “organic,” which is generally associated with natural, non-toxic practices that respect living organisms. It therefore comes as no surprise that in Europe, and many other places too, the promotion of “organic” bottom paints is strictly prohibited by law. On closer examination, it quickly becomes clear that, faced with growing environmental challenges and regulatory pressure, antifouling paint suppliers are navigating murky waters—quite literally. Between attempts to develop less environmentally aggressive solutions and the emergence of alternatives or complements to antifouling products, a question arises: what is the future for traditional bottom paint?