Bahrain Sets Sail for Sustainable Ship Recycling with Maersk Partnership
Bahrain is making a splash in the world of ship recycling with a groundbreaking initiative focused on sustainability. This project, the first of its kind in the kingdom, is a collaborative effort between the Bahraini government, A.P. Moller-Maersk (Maersk), and several key industry players.
A Green Alliance for Sustainable Practices
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Bahrain’s Ministries of Transportation & Telecommunications and Industry & Commerce, Maersk, Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY), SULB Company, and APM Terminals Bahrain marks a significant step towards establishing a responsible ship recycling ecosystem in the country. This partnership aims to create a win-win situation, ensuring environmentally friendly practices while boosting Bahrain’s economy and aligning with its national development goals.
Maersk Takes the Helm on Sustainability
Maersk, a global leader in shipping and logistics, brings its extensive experience in sustainable ship recycling to the table. They will provide crucial technical and operational guidance to ASRY, helping them develop and implement eco-friendly practices throughout the ship-breaking process. This includes expertise in dismantling ships, separating materials for reuse, and ensuring the safe and responsible handling of hazardous materials.
ASRY Gears Up for Green Ship Recycling
ASRY, a well-established shipyard in Bahrain, is taking the lead in this green initiative. They’ve already begun taking steps towards sustainable ship recycling, with their first project completed in 2023 – the dismantling of a retired Wan Hai containership. With the support of the Bahraini government, ASRY will receive regulatory backing and assistance in upgrading its facilities to meet the demands of large-scale green ship recycling.
SULB Takes the Recycled Steel to Market
Another key player in this project is SULB Company, a steel producer co-owned by Foulath (a Bahraini investment firm) and Yamato Kogyo. SULB plays a crucial role in creating a closed-loop system for recycled materials. They will take the steel recovered from dismantled ships and process it for use in both domestic and international markets, ensuring this valuable resource finds a new life.
Meeting the Growing Demand for Sustainable Recycling
The demand for responsible ship recycling is on the rise. Ship owners are facing stricter environmental regulations and a growing pressure to maintain a positive industry image. Maersk highlights this trend, expecting a significant increase in demand for eco-friendly ship-breaking facilities by 2028. Their experience in the field, with 22 vessels already recycled globally, positions them well to guide ASRY in this new venture.
Bahrain Joins the Global Green Wave
Bahrain’s initiative aligns with a global movement towards creating eco-friendly ship recycling practices. As the European Union enforces stricter regulations and prosecutes illegal shipbreaking activities, other countries like Egypt and Brazil are also announcing plans for green shipyards. This collaborative effort in Bahrain positions the country as a potential leader in the region for sustainable ship recycling.
The Future of Ship Recycling in Bahrain
This project holds immense promise for Bahrain. It fosters collaboration between the government and private sector, promotes environmental responsibility, and creates new economic opportunities by creating a “green steel” ecosystem. By leveraging Maersk’s expertise and partnering with key industry players, Bahrain is well on its way to establishing itself as a leader in sustainable ship recycling, contributing to a cleaner and more responsible maritime industry.
