The Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships

Historical Background

• From Scrapping to Recycling: Traditionally, ship dismantling was referred to as "scrapping." However, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) changed this terminology to "recycling," promoting the idea that every part of a ship should be recycled as practically as possible.
• MEPC’s Involvement: The Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) developed guidelines, finalized during its 49th session in July 2003.
• These were adopted by the 23rd IMO Assembly (Nov–Dec 2003) as:
  1. Resolution A.962(23) – Guidelines on Ship Recycling
  2. Amended by Resolution A.980(24)

"Nothing Goes to Waste"

• The guidelines emphasized that ship recycling results in minimal waste:
  • Steel is reprocessed into construction materials.
  • Generators are reused on land.
  • Batteries are repurposed in local markets.
  • Hydrocarbons are reclaimed as fuel.
  • Light fittings and other equipment also find second lives ashore.

  Ship Recycling as a “Green” Industry

  • When done properly, ship recycling is considered a green and sustainable industry.
  • However, the IMO recognized that working conditions and environmental practices in recycling yards often need improvement.
  • While primary responsibility lies with the recycling states, all stakeholders are encouraged to help minimize potential risks and hazards.

  Introduction of the “Green Passport”

  • The guidelines introduced the “Green Passport”, a document containing a comprehensive inventory of hazardous materials used in the ship’s construction.
  • Key features:
    • Prepared at the shipbuilding stage and handed to the first owner.
    • Updated throughout the ship's life by successive owners.
    • Delivered to the recycling yard along with the vessel at end-of-life.

    Entry Into Force

    • The Convention is open for accession by any State.
    • It will enter into force 24 months after 15 States (representing at least 40% of global merchant shipping by gross tonnage) have signed or ratified it.

    Objectives of the Convention

    • The main aim is to ensure that ships, when recycled at the end of their service lives, do not pose unnecessary risks to human health, safety, or the environment.

    Key Issues Addressed

    • The Convention responds to concerns about:
      • Hazardous substances on board ships (e.g., asbestos, heavy metals, hydrocarbons, ozone-depleting substances).
      • Poor working conditions and environmental standards at many ship recycling facilities around the world.

      Scope of Regulations

      The Convention covers the entire life cycle of ships with respect to recycling:

      1. Design, Construction, Operation, and Preparation of Ships
         • To support safe and environmentally sound recycling without compromising ship safety and efficiency.
      2. Operation of Ship Recycling Facilities
         • Ensures facilities function safely and in an environmentally sound manner.
      3. Enforcement Mechanism
         • Involves certification, inspection, and reporting procedures.

      Recycling Process Requirements

      Inventory of Hazardous Materials

      • Ships must maintain an Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM), unique to each vessel.
      • An appendix to the Convention lists materials that are restricted or prohibited in shipyards and onboard ships.

      Pre-Recycling Surveys

      • Ships will undergo:
        • An initial survey to verify the IHM.
        • Periodic surveys during operational life.
        • A final survey prior to recycling.

        Ship Recycling Plan

        • Recycling facilities must prepare a Ship Recycling Plan, detailing:
          • How the ship will be dismantled.
          • Consideration of the ship’s specifications and hazardous materials inventory.
        • State parties are required to ensure that recycling facilities under their jurisdiction comply with all Convention regulations.