Germany is taking a major step toward sustainable maritime practices by establishing a state-of-the-art ship recycling facility in Emden. This initiative will eliminate the need to send vessels to Southeast Asia for dismantling, ensuring environmentally responsible ship recycling within the country.
Operated by EWD Benli Recycling, an affiliate of Emden Werft und Dock (EWD), the facility marks a turning point in Europe’s approach to ship decommissioning.
A New Era for German Ship Recycling
EWD Benli Recycling has received official permits from the Oldenburg State Trade Supervisory Office, allowing operations to begin this year. The facility will handle a wide range of vessels including seagoing ships, passenger ferries, inland waterway crafts, and offshore wind turbines. According to Managing Director Björn Sommer, all vessels arriving at the Port of Emden through its sea lock will be processed locally.
Lower Saxony’s Environment Minister Christian Meyer welcomed this development, highlighting that Germany will no longer depend on distant countries for ship dismantling. The project ensures full compliance with environmental standards by covering all aspects of recycling, from dismantling to hazardous material management.
Environmental and Regulatory Significance
For decades, outdated ships were sent abroad for demolition under unsafe and environmentally harmful conditions, often in Southeast Asia. These practices created ecological damage and health risks for local communities. The Emden facility addresses these concerns by keeping recycling operations domestic and environmentally sustainable.
Germany’s move aligns with international efforts, particularly the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, which will take effect on June 26, 2025. This treaty enforces strict requirements for certified recycling infrastructure.
Moreover, the European Union has had vessel decommissioning regulations in place since November 2013, but German companies have often faced licensing hurdles. Industry groups like the Association for Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering are now calling for the removal of these barriers to encourage more sustainable practices.
Germany’s establishment of a certified ship recycling facility in Emden is a landmark achievement for sustainable maritime operations. By reducing reliance on overseas dismantling and adhering to international standards, the country is setting a strong precedent for environmentally sound ship recycling. With the Hong Kong Convention’s enforcement approaching in 2025, Germany is positioning itself at the forefront of responsible maritime waste management.
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Source: FAN
