In News:

The Hong Kong International Convention (HKC) for the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships officially came into force on June 26, 2025.

About HKC:

• The HKC is a global treaty adopted under the aegis of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to regulate the safe and environmentally sustainable recycling of ships that have reached the end of their operational life.

Objectives:

• Protect human health, especially that of shipbreaking workers.
• Prevent environmental pollution during ship dismantling.
• Control and manage hazardous materials such as asbestos, heavy metals, and hydrocarbons.
• Ensure safe waste handling and disposal practices in recycling yards.

Key Provisions:

• Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM):Ships must maintain an IHM listing all hazardous substances on board.
• Ship Recycling Plan (SRP):A certified SRP must be approved before the ship is sent for dismantling.
• Recycling Completion Certificate:Recycling facilities must issue this certificate within 14 days of dismantling completion.
• Third-Party Audits and Certification:Classification societies recognized by the IMO will conduct compliance audits and issue relevant certifications.
• Authorized Recycling Yards:The convention promotes the use of regulated and approved facilities for ship recycling to ensure compliance with international safety and environmental norms.

Significance:

• Strengthens global maritime safety and sustainable shipbreaking practices.
• Encourages modernization and regulation of recycling yards, especially in developing countries like India and Bangladesh.
• Aligns ship recycling with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those on health, environment, and decent work.