Germany's First Sustainable Ship Recycling License Granted in Emden
The Lower Saxony state parliament has approved an increase in ship recycling within the state. EWD Benli Recycling GmbH & Co. KG has been granted a license to dismantle old ships in Emden harbor, marking a first for Germany. The process will adhere to the Hong Kong Convention and EU's Ship Recycling Regulation (EU-SRR), ensuring sustainability and safety.
EWD Benli Recycling GmbH & Co. KG is the sole company licensed for this task under the German Federal Emission Control Act. The license allows them to recycle state-owned ships, inland waterway vessels, coastal ships, and sea-going ships, including initial decontamination. This development is welcomed by Lower Saxony's Environment Minister Christian Meyer, who anticipates sustainable ship recycling in the region.
Previously, ships were frequently dismantled in Southeast Asia, where environmental and occupational safety standards were often overlooked. The new recycling process in Emden will address these concerns, adhering to stringent EU and international standards.
EWD Benli Recycling GmbH & Co. KG's license to recycle old ships in Emden harbor signifies a significant step towards sustainable ship recycling in Germany. The process will prioritize environmental and safety standards, unlike previous practices in Southeast Asia.