From Scrapyard to Sustainability: Bangladesh Tightens Ship Recycling Rules
Dhaka, March 7, 2025 — The Bangladeshi government has taken a major step toward strengthening its ship recycling and hazardous waste management laws, aiming to bring the industry in line with international environmental and labour standards. The move comes as part of a broader effort to improve safety, reduce pollution, and ensure sustainable practices in one of the world’s largest shipbreaking hubs.
New Regulations to Overhaul the Industry
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, in coordination with the Ministry of Industries, has introduced a draft amendment to the Bangladesh Ship Recycling Act, 2018. The proposed changes are designed to enhance compliance with the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, which was adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2009 and is set to enter into force in 2025.
The revised legislation will impose stricter controls on hazardous waste disposal, reinforce worker safety measures, and introduce a licensing system for shipbreaking yards. According to officials, these measures aim to mitigate the environmental damage caused by toxic substances such as asbestos, heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants commonly found in end-of-life vessels.
“The government is fully committed to making ship recycling safer and more environmentally friendly. Our amendments will align Bangladesh with global standards and ensure sustainable development in the industry,” said Environment Minister Md. Shahab Uddin.
Bangladesh’s Role in the Global Ship Recycling Industry
Bangladesh is one of the world’s leading destinations for shipbreaking, along with India, Pakistan, and Turkey. The industry provides employment to around 30,000 workers and contributes significantly to the country’s steel industry, supplying over 60% of Bangladesh’s raw materials for steel production. However, the sector has long faced criticism over poor working conditions, frequent accidents, and environmental degradation.
The new legal framework is expected to address concerns raised by environmentalists and labor rights advocates. “For decades, we have been calling for reforms to make shipbreaking safer for workers and less harmful to the environment. The government’s move is a step in the right direction,” said Syeda Rizwana Hasan, executive director of the Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA).
Key Provisions in the New Legislation
The amended laws introduce several significant changes:
- Stricter Licensing Requirements: Shipbreaking yards will need to obtain updated environmental and labour compliance certifications before being allowed to operate.
- Improved Worker Safety: Employers will be required to provide protective equipment, enforce safety training programs, and establish emergency response systems.
- Hazardous Waste Management: The law will mandate the safe removal and disposal of toxic substances under strict supervision, preventing contamination of soil and water bodies.
- Monitoring and Transparency: Authorities will conduct regular inspections and publish reports on shipbreaking operations to ensure compliance.
- Penalties for Violations: Heavier fines and legal action will be imposed on shipbreaking yards that fail to meet safety and environmental regulations.
Challenges and Industry Response
Despite widespread support for the reforms, industry stakeholders have expressed concerns over potential financial burdens. Many shipbreaking yards operate on thin profit margins, and the cost of compliance with stricter regulations could be substantial.
“We support responsible ship recycling, but the government must provide financial assistance and technical support to help yards upgrade their infrastructure,” said Md. Abu Taher, President of the Bangladesh Ship Breakers and Recyclers Association (BSBRA). “Without proper incentives, small and medium-sized operators may struggle to meet the new requirements.”
To ease the transition, the government is considering offering subsidies and low-interest loans to help shipbreaking businesses invest in safer and more sustainable practices. Additionally, international organizations such as the IMO and the European Union have pledged technical assistance to support Bangladesh in implementing the new regulations.
Environmental and Social Impact
The shipbreaking industry has long been associated with severe environmental damage, particularly along the coastal areas of Chattogram, where hazardous waste often leaks into the ocean. Marine pollution, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity have been major concerns, prompting demands for stricter oversight.
The new laws are expected to lead to a cleaner and more sustainable industry by mandating proper waste disposal and pollution control measures. The improved safety provisions will also protect workers from life-threatening accidents and health hazards, such as respiratory diseases caused by exposure to toxic fumes and materials.
“This is not just about compliance; it’s about saving lives and protecting our environment,” said Rizwana Hasan. “If properly implemented, these reforms will make a real difference.”
International Implications
Bangladesh’s decision to tighten ship recycling laws aligns with growing global efforts to regulate end-of-life ship disposal. The European Union, for instance, has already implemented the EU Ship Recycling Regulation, which requires European-owned ships to be dismantled only in approved facilities that meet high environmental and labour standards.
With the impending enforcement of the Hong Kong Convention, Bangladesh’s proactive approach could enhance its reputation as a responsible player in the global ship recycling industry. This, in turn, could attract more business from shipping companies seeking compliance with international regulations.
Looking Ahead
As Bangladesh moves toward implementing these legal reforms, the government, industry leaders, and international partners will need to collaborate closely to ensure a smooth transition. While challenges remain, the strengthened regulations signal a positive shift toward a more responsible and sustainable ship recycling industry.
With global scrutiny increasing, the success of these reforms will depend on effective enforcement and industry cooperation. If properly executed, Bangladesh could set a precedent for other shipbreaking nations, paving the way for safer and more sustainable ship recycling worldwide.
