At the start of the IMO International Conference on the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships 107 environmental and human rights organisations, united in NGO Platform on Shipbreaking, have submitted a ‘state of concern’ and demonstrated for effective measures in ship breaking.
Most seagoing ships eventually end up at beaches in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh to be demolished. 44 Per cent of all ship breaking takes place in Bangladesh. Ship breaking often results in casualties, some of which are fatal. Furthermore, the ships cannot be reached by ambulances and fire engines and beaches and sea become severely polluted. Crude oil, remainders of cargo, poisonous paint and PCBs are some substances that flow into the sea uncontrolled.
The financial crisis and the replacement of single-hull tankers will lead to an increase in ship breaking.
Successful Alternatives
Several trials have shown alternatives are available. Dutch shipowner Nedlloyd (now part of the Danish Maersk) for example, started a ship breaking yard in China. Here ships are demolished at the dock, hazardous materials are removed carefully and employees wear protective clothing.
The IMO conference takes place in Hong Kong and lasts until 15 May, when the definitive convention will be presented.
Source: https://www.noordzee.nl/actueel_artikel.php?contentID=206[Stichting De Noordzee]
