WSC response to the European Commission's Public Consultation on "Ship recycling – European list of ship recycling facilities (14th edition)
The World Shipping Council (WSC), representing over 90% of the global liner shipping industry's container and vehicle carrier capacity, is committed to advancing sustainable and responsible shipping practices worldwide. The European Union's leadership at the IMO in advocating can advance higher standards for global ship recycling.
While acknowledging the publication of the 14th European List of Ship Recycling Facilities, it is important to recognize that the current list does not sufficiently meet the needs of the global liner fleet. The limited number and capacity of EU-approved facilities are inadequate to handle the recycling demands of the international fleet, especially for larger vessels. Expanding the number and geographic diversity of approved facilities will significantly help ensure that vessels are recycled safely and sustainably.
By continuing to evaluate ship recycling facilities outside its borders and including them once they meet established standards, the EU can help improve global recycling practices. This approach not only promotes best practices worldwide but also reinforces the EU's position as a leader in environmental responsibility, encouraging others to follow suit.
Applying consistent and transparent auditing standards for all recycling facilities, regardless of their location, is essential. Reconsidering the automatic inclusion of EU facilities without rigorous audits ensures fairness and upholds the highest safety and environmental standards across the board. This uniformity fosters trust and sets a global benchmark, highlighting the EU's commitment to excellence and inspiring other nations to elevate their standards accordingly.
Incorporating industry best practices ensures oversight and adherence to environmental and safety standards throughout the recycling process. Sharing best practices through transparent reporting not only raises global standards but also demonstrates the EU's dedication to collaboration and continuous improvement, encouraging widespread adoption of these effective strategies.
At the international level, the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (HKC) will enter into force in 2025. The EU's leadership in revising the HKC is crucial to update international recycling safety and sustainability standards. Recognizing and ratifying the HKC as the primary legal framework governing ship recycling—taking precedence over overlapping regulations—clarifies global standards and reduces uncertainty.
Access to safe and environmentally sound recycling is vital for fleet modernization and the energy transition. Sustainable recycling practices facilitate the introduction of newer ships that utilize advanced fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with decarbonization targets. By expanding the EU list to include compliant facilities worldwide and supporting the implementation and revision of the HKC, the EU actively contributes to global environmental goals.
Read WSC’s comments on EU’s Ship Recycling here.