Water quality

Water quality 

Water quality monitoring has been part of our environment program since the 1990s.  

We monitor stormwater discharges from operational sites and dredging activities, ambient harbour quality is monitored through PCIMP of which GPC is a member. 

How we monitor water quality 

We use two methods of collection, manual and real time sampling.  

Manual sampling involves the collection of physical water by grab samples. These samples are sent to an accredited third-party laboratory for analysis, which typically includes metals, nutrients, hydrocarbons and other contaminants if required. 

 Real-time sampling involves the use of a multi-parameter sonde that records physicochemical data including turbidity, pH, Electrical Conductivity, Dissolved Oxygen and temperature. Collected real time monitoring data can be viewed to trend and allow proactive management.  

Ballast water management 

Ships are required to manage their ballast water to remove, render harmless, or avoid the uptake or discharge of aquatic organisms and pathogens within ballast water and sediments. 

Shipboard ballast water management systems must be approved by national authorities, according to a process developed by International Maritime Organisation