The introduction of alien invasive organisms is now considered to be one of the most serious threats to biological diversity. When such organisms are spread to new areas, they may disturb the species composition and structure of ecosystems. Introduced species can also have major economic consequences for commercial activities. Discharges of ballast water from ships are the most important source of alien species in the marine environment.

Minister of Environment Børge Brende said: "We will take steps to deal with this problem at both national and international level. These may include requirements relating to the exchange of ballast water and requirements to establish onshore reception facilities."

Norway is actively promoting coordinated joint measures to deal with the problem of ballast water in all North Sea countries, pending the development of an international legal regime by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This is one of the issues Norway will raise at the Fifth International Conference on the Protection of the North Sea in Bergen on 20-21 March.

The Government will also restrict the use of genetically modified marine organisms to secure, self-contained land-based facilities.