UAE Ship Recycling Regulation: Leading the Maritime World in Recycling Oversight
Understanding the broader positive impact of UAE SRR on the ship recycling industry
1/8/20242 min read
In a bold stride toward maritime sustainability, the United Arab Emirates has uncovered its visionary Ship Recycling Regulation, charting a course that promises not just compliance but a blueprint for responsible ship dismantling within its territorial waters. Poised to revolutionize the ship recycling landscape, this groundbreaking regulation meticulously outlines a framework that champions the dry-docking method and comparative dismantling methods. Beyond the legalities, it embodies a commitment to environmental governance, embracing a future where UAE vessels and those navigating its territorial waters will undergo recycling processes that are not only legally sound but environmentally conscientious. This is not merely a regulation; it's a testament to the UAE's dedication to maritime excellence and global environmental responsibility.
In a nutshell, let's revisit the parameters covered by the UAE Ship Recycling Regulation (SRR):
It is apt to note that the UAE SRR is directly applicable to vessels bearing the UAE flag, ensuring that these vessels strictly adhere to the regulations outlined within this framework.
Additionally, the regulatory umbrella extends to include non-UAE flagged vessels, but with a specific criterion. This inclusion pertains to instances where the decision to initiate the recycling process was made within the jurisdiction of UAE territorial waters. In essence, any vessel, regardless of its flag, falls under the purview of the UAE SRR if the determination to recycle is made within this defined maritime space.
Another noteworthy facet of the regulation involves non-EU flagged vessels that set sail from the waters of the UAE with the intention of being recycled elsewhere. This unique provision underscores the extraterritorial influence of the UAE SRR, reaching beyond the confines of its immediate territorial jurisdiction.
It is too early to gauge the influence of UAE SRR on the wider recycling market as of January 2024. Although, inferences can be made to suggest a significant impact on decisions made by cash-buyers present within the UAE market. Currently, no South Asian recycling facility incorporates the use of dry-dock recycling or similar dismantling methods. UAE SRR may spur on owners of recycling yards in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh to consider the viability of investing in dry-docking facilities or similar methods to remain compliant with UAE and EU SRR governance. It is also note-worthy to mention a positive forecast of tonnage that is predicted to be recycled over the next 5 years and the impact new regulations will have for shipowners, cash buyers and recycling facilities alike.
Overall, ARKB SHIPPING LLC welcomes these regulations as a natural progression to an ever evolving maritime world. The aforementioned regulations will contribute to a cleaner and greener transition within the recycling industry and pay credit to the great work done by regulating authorities and the capabilities of a green recycling yard.