In International Shipping News 22/09/2016
Denmark’s recent decision to move ahead with the ratification of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (HKC) in Spring 2017, is a significant marker of support. In addition, Panama’s accession to the convention on 19 September 2016 delivers a significant move towards its entry into force. The HKC now has 5 of the 15 countries and 20% of the 40% of the world fleet by gross tonnage required for entry into force.
On the announcement of this encouraging news Dr Anil Sharma, President and CEO of GMS, the world’s largest buyer of ships for recycling, commented:
“Panama’s accession to the HKC and Denmark’s steps towards the ratification are clear endorsements of the growing international support for the principle that the industry should work to improve the safety and environmental standards at ship recycling yards, wherever in the world they may be. The standards laid out in the HKC and its guidelines are enabling the industry to achieve sustainable goals for ship recycling. Importantly, the market is beginning to hold companies accountable for out-dated procedures. There is increasing momentum towards voluntary Statements of Compliance in line with the HKC and more owners are now opting for green ship recycling when vessels are sold.”
“Panama and Denmark’s support for the HKC is of significant importance. It will have an enormous impact globally on the sustainability of ship recycling and, consequently, on the lives and conditions of shipyard workers. GMS has always supported safe and environmentally sound ship recycling becoming the norm, rather than the exception and the entry into force of the HKC will ensure this happens.
“As the HKC progresses towards enforcement, the European Union’s Ship Recycling Regulation is also entering a critical stage, as a decision is awaited for the yards in Alang holding Statements of Compliance with the HKC whether they should be included on the list of EU approved recycling yards.
“These yards have proven that they meet the high safety and environmental standards laid out in the HKC through significant investment, training and development within the region. Excluding these yards would create an insurmountable divide within the industry based solely on their geographic location, and threaten to halt the positive progress made by the HKC in South Asia.
“Panama’s accession and Denmark’s decision to move towards the ratification the HKC shows a growing international support for sustainable recycling across the globe. We hope that other countries will follow Denmark’s example through ratification and vocal support for its high standards and principles.”
Source: GMS
