UNODC and Bangladesh Join Forces to Clean Up Ship Recycling Crimes
CHATTOGRAM — In a major step toward curbing environmental non-compliance and boosting maritime security, the Bangladesh Ship Recycling Board (BSRB) participated in a high-level validation workshop focused on tackling crimes affecting the environment within the country’s shipbreaking sector.
The seminar, titled Operational Analysis of Crimes Affecting the Environment and Related Criminal Activity in the Ship Recycling Industry in Bangladesh, was organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) under its Global Maritime Crime Programme (GMCP).
The workshop brought together key government agencies, industry stakeholders, and international experts to dissect the legal and operational loopholes that can lead to illicit activities—such as hazardous waste smuggling, illegal dumping, and labor violations—within the ship recycling ecosystem.
A representative from the BSRB emphasized that the board’s participation underlines Bangladesh’s commitment to transforming its shipbreaking yards into world-class, sustainable facilities.
“This workshop has significantly strengthened collaboration among government bodies and private stakeholders. Our goal is to firmly establish a ship recycling industry in Bangladesh that is safe, transparent, environmentally responsible, and fully compliant with international law,” a statement read.
The event comes at a crucial transition point for the industry. As one of the world’s top ship-breaking nations, Bangladesh has faced intense international scrutiny over environmental damage and worker safety. However, the country has made strides recently by moving toward compliance with the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, which aims to ensure that retired vessels do not pose unnecessary risks to human health or the environment.
By partnering with the UNODC, local authorities aim to build a robust framework that not only enforces environmental protocols but also identifies and prosecutes criminal elements attempting to exploit the industry.
Author: shipping inbox
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