Asian shipowners are backing the use of breaking yards that have a statement of compliance with the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships.
The chairman of the Japanese Shipowners’ Association recycling committee Keiji Tomoda said that, along with the Asian Shipowners' Association, its members are being encouraged only to use certified yards.
However, he admitted that due to financial pressures, not all of its members have been able to do so.
“Some shipowners which are under threat of negative business conditions leave the selection of yards for cash buyers, even though they originally wish to nominate Hong Kong Convention yards,” he said.
But, Tomoda is keen to see the Hong Kong Convention ratified soon so that all owners are obliged to work towards its standards, and those that use compliant yards are not disadvantaged by the additional costs.
“We definitely need to hasten the enactment of the Hong Kong Convention to compensate for the additional investment and costs to perform compliant operations,” he said.
Tomoda added that the JSA is actively engaging with the recycling community in south Asia to discuss standards, shipyard operations and how things can be improved on matters such as hazardous waste storage and disposal.
“We indicate areas that need an upgrade and also offer ideas to ensure smooth operations,” he said. “This kind of joint effort is contributing towards raising standards. Of course, these activities must be ongoing and it may be an endless theme.”
Optimistic on China
Tomoda is optimistic that China will move to ratify the Hong Kong Convention and bring it into force.
The shipping giant has pulled out of the recycling market and its foreign flag owners need to find somewhere to demolish their ships, he explained.
“We believe China will not miss the golden opportunity to contribute to the world," he said.
“Chinese shipowners who run flag-of-convenience vessels are required to find yards for shiprecycling outside China.
“We sincerely hope all stakeholders in the world motivate China to ratify quickly and also cooperate in upgrading activities in Bangladesh.”
