Call for ship recycling standards alignment

The company said the entry into force of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (HKC) marks a significant milestone for the sector, providing a common international framework covering worker safety, hazardous material management, environmental protection and operational oversight.

Wirana noted that more than 100 recycling facilities across the Indian subcontinent had already achieved HKC compliance before the convention took effect, reflecting substantial industry investment in upgrading facilities and adopting higher environmental and safety standards.

However, the company said progress has not been uniform across all recycling markets, with some yards still working towards certification. At the same time, strong competition for a limited supply of end-of-life vessels has created commercial pressure across the sector, with recyclers bidding aggressively despite compliance costs.

“The Hong Kong Convention has provided the industry with a much stronger framework for safe and environmentally sound ship recycling, and it is encouraging to see so many facilities investing to meet those standards,” said Hitesh Vyas, vice president Middle East and green recycling coordinator at Wirana Shipping.

“The commercial challenges the market is experiencing today are largely the result of aggressive bidding for a limited number of vessels rather than the standards themselves.

“As market conditions change, it is important that the industry continues to uphold the progress that has already been made.”

Wirana also highlighted the need for greater alignment between international and regional regulations governing ship recycling. Depending on a vessel’s flag, ownership, location and recycling destination, shipowners may be required to comply with the Hong Kong Convention, the EU Ship Recycling Regulation, the Basel Convention and related waste shipment rules.

Vyas said: “The industry broadly agrees on what responsible ship recycling should look like. The next priority is creating greater alignment between international and regional regulations so owners have greater clarity throughout the recycling process. Consistent implementation, effective enforcement and a level playing field will be essential.”