Indian Register of Shipping hosted a Seminar on ‘Sustainable Ship Recycling: Charting India’s Course to Global Leadership’, at Bhavnagar near Alang. The seminar was held in the backdrop of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships , which is set to enter into force this June.

The seminar drew active participation from various stakeholders including the Ship Recycling Industries Association (SRIA), Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), and Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB), along with representatives from ship recycling yards. The Guests of Honour for the Seminar included Capt Rakesh Mishra, Port Officer, Gujarat Maritime Board, Mr. A J Rathod, Regional Officer of Gujarat Pollution Control Board. They emphasised the importance of fostering collaboration to ensure that ship recycling activities contribute to a greener and safer maritime industry.

Discussions centred around the preparedness of India’s ship recycling sector, opportunities for upgrading safety and environmental standards, and the need for a collaborative approach to reinforce India’s position as a leading global ship recycling destination.

Senior IRS officials highlighted the evolving regulatory landscape and emphasised the need for the industry to align with global expectations. One of the focus areas of the seminar was the future challenges posed by recycling of alternative fuel ships powered by batteries, ammonia, methanol, and emerging nuclear technologies. Experts noted that handling such vessels would require upgraded infrastructure, skilled manpower, and robust safety protocols, all of which present both a challenge and an opportunity for Indian recyclers.

The role of capacity building and training was underscored, with IRS showcasing the offerings of IRClass Academy in enhancing workforce skills and technical knowledge essential for future-ready recycling practices.

Mr. T K Sahu Joint MD of IRS, said, “The Seminar has reaffirmed that sustainable ship recycling is not just a regulatory requirement but a shared responsibility. We are encouraged by the collective commitment demonstrated by all participants and look forward to building on the momentum created today.”