Bangladesh mandates ‘green licences’ for ship-breaking yards

The government has announced that all ship recycling businesses in Bangladesh must get a “green licence” if they want to stay open in the future.

The move aims to clean up the country’s famous ship-breaking industry and make sure yards follow international safety and environmental rules.

Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, the Minister for Commerce and Industry, shared the news while visiting several shipyards in Sitakunda, the main hub for shipbreaking in the country. He stressed that no business will be allowed to cut up old ships without this eco-friendly certificate.

Bangladesh used to be the world leader in ship recycling, which provides a massive amount of steel for the country. However, the industry has faced a lot of criticism in the past. For years, activists and international groups complained about severe water pollution, unsafe working conditions, and the unfair treatment of workers.

The government wants to change that negative image and help Bangladesh become a global leader again, but in a clean way.

The minister shared that 31 shipyards have already upgraded their technology and received their green licences. These yards are now using scientific methods to recycle ships safely. For the yards that haven’t made the change yet, the government has promised to provide technical help and guidance so they can meet the new standards.

“In the past, there were many complaints about pollution and unsafe work,” Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said. “But today, things are changing. Green yards are proving that we can recycle ships safely and scientifically.”

The minister also warned that the government will take strict action against anyone causing law and order problems around the shipyards. Local police and administrations must ensure that businesses can run smoothly without any disruptions.

The push for a greener industry comes at a tough time, as the minister admitted that Bangladesh is still dealing with a long-standing shortage of natural gas, which makes running factories difficult.

During the shipyard visit, the minister was joined by Mohammad Mohsin Chowdhury, the President of the Bangladesh Ship Breakers and Recyclers Association (BSBRA), along with other industry leaders who support the new green goals.