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Container experts tackle the pest problem

[ December 5, 2024   //   ]

Experts convened in Rotterdam to explore pest-resistant container design on 11 November, aiming to address the annual $423 billion global challenge.

Attendees at The International Symposium on Optimising Container Design to Mitigate Risks of Pest Contamination included representatives from carriers, leasing companies, container manufacturers, biosecurity experts, and plant health

A key focus was a study by the Australian government comparing standard containers with modified designs. The study revealed that while 8% of standard containers showed signs of pest contamination, the rate dropped to just 1.45% in modified units.

Data indicates that 90% of pest contamination found on the external surfaces of sea containers is linked to the understructures, while contamination on internal surfaces is primarily associated with the floorboards.

The symposium looked at practical modifications such as floor designs that eliminate gaps and cracks and prevent nail holes; understructures with fewer horizontal ledge configurations; and the elimination of bitumastic under-coatings.

The conference also set up a working group including representatives from container owners, operators and manufacturers to move the ideas forward.