ORGANIZERS
Introduction
About
SOWOS
In 2026 the Development and Assessment Institute in Waste Water Technology at RWTH Aachen University (PIA) in cooperation with the Ship Safety Division (BG for Transport and Traffic) and the German Shipowners' Association (VDR) invites to SOWOS 12, a symposium on environmental topics and prevention of pollution from ships.
The seas are the largest ecological system of the earth. And yet, seagoing vessels are typically used in long-distance traffic and are not limited regionally. Thus, all involved parties need to set common goals and cooperate internationally in order to protect the seas. Only in this way can solutions be found. In previous symposiums about sewage, bilge and ballast water and flue gas cleaning, the participants became aware of the need for substantial discussion on all of these topics. Due to this demand, PIA and its partners decided that a 12th Symposium should be arranged.
SOWOS 12 will be held as a 2-days conference on 22-23 September 2026. On day 1 the conference is guest on the cruise vessel "Mein Schiff 2" of TUI Cruises.
SOWOS is a conference for all the parties involved (authorities, certifying bodies, constructors, operators, shipowners, ship yards, etc.). SOWOS enables discussions between all participants in an informal meeting.
Conference Topics
Key Themes
2026
The official language of the conference is English and is used in correspondence, presentations and publications.
MARPOL Annex IV & Wastewater
This topic focuses on the treatment, monitoring, and regulation of wastewater generated on board ships. Sessions will cover MARPOL Annex IV requirements, sewage treatment plant performance, standardization activities, operational experience, and future approaches to improving environmental protection and compliance.
Bilge Water and MEPC.107(49)
Bilge water treatment remains a key environmental challenge for the maritime industry. The conference will address the effectiveness of existing treatment systems, operational experience, and the need for updates to current regulatory frameworks, including discussions surrounding MEPC.107(49) and future compliance requirements.
Ballast Water
Sessions on ballast water management will provide insights into current regulations, implementation challenges, industry expectations, and lessons learned from ship operations. Special attention will be given to compliance verification, Port State Control experience, and the practical realities of ballast water management worldwide.
Compliance and Monitoring
Environmental compliance is becoming increasingly important for ship owners, operators, and authorities. This topic area covers monitoring strategies, testing methodologies, enforcement practices, international regulatory developments, and the role of data-driven decision making in demonstrating environmental performance and compliance.
01
Day 1 - 22. September
Aboard
"Mein Schiff 2"
Cruise Center Steinwerder, Buchheisterstraße 16 · 20457 Hamburg
Experience the symposium in a unique maritime setting — aboard a state-of-the-art cruise vessel in Europe's second-largest port.
02
Day 2 - 23. September
Handwerkskammer
Hamburg
Holstenwall 12 · 20355 Hamburg
A landmark conference centre in the heart of Hamburg — modern facilities, excellent connectivity, and a distinguished venue for professional exchange.
Konferenzzentrum
Tickets & Tours
Pricing and
Terms
Tickets
Regular ticket: 650€
Early bird Ticket (until September 9, 2026): 550€
VDR Members: 20% discount
Authorities: 20% discount
Guided tours*
Tour 1
Behind-the-Scenes Tour to Waste Handling Area and Engine Control Room
Tour 2
Tour through Public Area and Bridge
* Participation in the guided tours is limited. Advance registration is required.
Booking available on 25.08.2026
Sponsors
Partners and Sponsors
of SOWOS 12
- MAIN SPONSOR
- SPONSOR
- MEDIA PARTNERS
- SUPPORTED BY
Partnership Opportunities
Stand out as an official
Sponsor of SOWOS 12
As a sponsor your logo will be displayed in the conference program and online here at sowos-conference.de, you will receive one complimentary ticket for the conference and exhibition space during the conference for a roll-up or a table for flyers and other company information. You can also host a meal or other during the conference´s evening get-together.
If you are interested to sponsor SOWOS 12, please contact us for further information and options.
