HONGKONG CONVENTION | SHIP RECYCLING | MMD EXAM INDIA | Q & A | ENGINEERS | CLASS 1

Summary

This video explains the Hong Kong Convention of 2009, which aims to ensure the safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. It outlines the steps involved in ship recycling, from preparing ships for recycling to managing hazardous materials onboard through the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM). The video highlights the importance of international regulations, such as the IHM and the required certificates for ship recycling. It also covers India’s progress in adopting the convention and the legal frameworks in place to protect human health and the environment during ship dismantling. The video provides useful insights into the procedure and the environmental considerations involved in ship recycling.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Hong Kong Convention, 2009, addresses safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships.
• 😀 The convention enters into force 24 months after ratification by 15 states representing 40% of the world’s merchant shipping by gross tonnage.
• 😀 The main aim of the Hong Kong Convention is to ensure ships are recycled in a way that does not harm human health, safety, or the environment.
• 😀 The Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) lists hazardous materials present on ships to ensure proper handling and recycling.
• 😀 IHM consists of three parts: hazardous materials in the ship's structure and equipment, operationally generated wastes, and stores.
• 😀 For new ships, the IHM part 1 is prepared by the shipyard during construction and updated throughout the ship’s life.
• 😀 Ships flying an EU flag must have an IHM certificate by December 31, 2018, based on supplier declarations and material compliance.
• 😀 The process of ship recycling under the Hong Kong Convention includes checking and updating the IHM, cleaning tanks, and sending necessary documentation for approval.
• 😀 Once the IHM is approved, an International Ready for Recycling Certificate is issued, valid for 3 months, and statutory certificates must be submitted for verification.
• 😀 India’s accession to the convention is crucial, but further tonnage and recycling volumes are needed before it enters into force.
• 😀 India has introduced a Ship Breaking Code in 2013 following environmental concerns, marking a step toward safer and more environmentally friendly ship dismantling.

Q & A

What is the Hong Kong Convention 2009 about?

The Hong Kong Convention 2009, also known as the International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, aims to regulate the recycling of ships in an environmentally responsible manner, ensuring no unnecessary risk to human health and the environment during the recycling process.

How does the Hong Kong Convention 2009 come into effect?

The Hong Kong Convention 2009 enters into force 24 months after it has been ratified by 15 states that together represent 40% of the world’s merchant shipping by gross tonnage and a combined annual ship recycling volume of at least 3% of their combined gross tonnage.

What are the main goals of the Hong Kong Convention?

The main goals of the Hong Kong Convention are to ensure that ships are recycled in a way that does not pose unnecessary risks to human health and the environment, and to control the movement of hazardous waste during the recycling process.

What does the Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) entail?

The IHM is a detailed list of hazardous materials present on a ship. It includes materials found in the ship’s structure, equipment, stores, and operationally generated waste that could pose a hazard to people or the environment.

What are the three parts of the IHM?

The IHM consists of three parts: Part 1 covers hazardous materials in the ship’s structure and equipment, Part 2 deals with operationally generated wastes, and Part 3 lists materials found in stores aboard the ship.

How is the IHM Part 1 prepared for new ships?

For new ships, the IHM Part 1 is prepared by the shipyard based on material declarations and suppliers' declarations of conformity for all machinery, equipment, and materials used on board. This ensures that hazardous materials listed in relevant regulations are identified.

What is the process for preparing a ship for recycling under the Hong Kong Convention?

To prepare a ship for recycling under the Hong Kong Convention, the IHM Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 must be checked and updated. This includes cleaning bilge and sludge, preparing tanks, and sending the documentation to the Ship Recycling Facility (SRF). After the surveyor approves the plans, an International Ready for Recycling Certificate is issued.

What role does the Ship Recycling Facility (SRF) play in the recycling process?

The Ship Recycling Facility (SRF) plays a critical role in the recycling process by ensuring that the ship is dismantled safely and in compliance with the Hong Kong Convention. The SRF is responsible for ensuring all environmental and safety regulations are met during the recycling process.

How has India implemented the Hong Kong Convention?

India acceded to the Hong Kong Convention, and the treaty will enter into force once required criteria are met. The country faced environmental concerns about shipbreaking, which led to the formation of a shipbreaking code in 2013. This code aligns with the principles of the convention for safe dismantling.

What is the significance of the 'Ready for Recycling Certificate'?

The 'Ready for Recycling Certificate' is an essential document that confirms a ship is prepared for environmentally sound dismantling and recycling, as per the Hong Kong Convention. It is issued by the Ship Recycling Facility after verifying that the necessary steps and documentation are in place.