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SENSREC side event during the Basel Convention Conference of the Parties

A high-level side event titled “A safe and environmentally sound approach to ship recycling” was held on 1 May 2025 in Geneva, during the COP 25 meetings of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions. Organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and its SENSREC Project, and in collaboration with the Governments of Norway and Pakistan, the event gathered key international stakeholders to discuss the future of ship recycling as the Hong Kong Convention prepares to enter into force in June 2025.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez at Basel Convention Conference of the Parties
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez at Basel Convention Conference of the Parties

The session was opened by IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez and featured a panel discussion with representatives from Norway, Pakistan, the IMO, the BRS Secretariat, BIMCO, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Environment. The panel explored strategies for fostering collaboration among governments, industry, and international organizations to ensure ship recycling is conducted safely and with minimal environmental impact, particularly in developing countries.

Dr Zaigham Abbas, Director, Ministry of Climate Change of Pakistan (L) and Ms Gudrun Janssens, Head of EU Engagement (R) at Basel Convention Conference of the Parties
Dr Zaigham Abbas, Director, Ministry of Climate Change of Pakistan (L) and Ms Gudrun Janssens, Head of EU Engagement (R)

Participants emphasized the importance of global cooperation and robust policy frameworks to safeguard oceans, coastal communities, and workers, marking a significant step forward for sustainable ship recycling and hazardous waste management worldwide.