In this episode of the GMS Podcast, host Jamie Dalzell speaks with Dr. Anand Hiremath, Chief Sustainability Officer at GMS, about Europe’s efforts to expand ship recycling capacity and the idea of producing green steel locally. While the vision is aligned with climate targets and circular economy principles, the reality tells a different story.
Key Points in This Episode
Recycled steel vs. conventional steel: One ton of ship recycled steel generates only 0.44 tons of CO₂ equivalent compared with 1.6 to 2.4 tons from traditional steelmaking.
EU Ship Recycling Regulation (EUSRR) vs. Hong Kong Convention (HKC): The need for one global standard to govern ship recycling practices.
South Asia’s decades of experience: India, Bangladesh, and Turkey have recycled more than 8,500 ships, producing over 67 million tons of secondary steel that directly supports the circular economy.
The hidden environmental cost: Diverting ships thousands of miles to European yards often increases emissions rather than reducing them.
ESG oversight and compliance: How shipowners can use audits, monitoring, and certification to ensure safe and transparent recycling practices.
Why This Conversation Matters
Europe already exports more than 17 million tons of steel scrap each year. Recycling ships within Europe and then exporting the steel again may actually add emissions and costs. Meanwhile, South Asian yards have built a mature recycling ecosystem, supported by the Hong Kong Convention which will enter into force in 2025.
For shipowners, policymakers, and regulators, this episode provides a clear view of what is working in global ship recycling and where regional policies may fall short. The discussion offers practical insights for those focused on sustainable shipping, regulatory alignment, and environmental responsibility.
Subscribe to GMS Weekly: https://www.gmsinc.net/get-in-touch?#SubscribeToGMS
GMS Mobile App: https://onelink.to/gms-app
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gms-leadership
X (Twitter): https://x.com/GMS_Leadership
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gms__leadership
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gmsleadership/
Download GMS App
