Bangladesh shipyards brace for recycling boom
International Efforts to Improve Ship-breaking Industry
The shipbreaking industry, particularly in South Asia, has long been plagued by unsafe working conditions, environmental hazards, and low pay for workers. However, new international laws are seeking to make this industry safer and cleaner, while workers are also advocating for better wages. This article delves into the context of the shipbreaking industry, the efforts to reduce emissions, and the challenges faced by workers in this sector.
What’s the context?
Situated on the southwest coast of Bangladesh, workers in ship-breaking yards armed with tools like gas torches and laser cutters dismantle massive old ships for recycling. These yards along the coastline of Sitakunda recycle a significant portion of the world’s decommissioned ships, providing steel scraps for Bangladesh’s manufacturing industry. However, this work is incredibly risky, with workers facing burns, injuries, and even fatalities during the dismantling process.
Emissions:
The global fleet of ships is a significant contributor to carbon dioxide emissions, prompting the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to pledge emission reductions by 2030. New regulations aim to make ship dismantling safer and more environmentally friendly. Despite these efforts, workers in the industry are concerned about the lack of decent jobs and fair pay. The ship-breaking industry in South Asia has witnessed numerous worker deaths and environmental harm, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures and worker rights.
Making jobs decent:
Workers in ship-breaking yards in Bangladesh typically earn less than $5 for a day’s work, without benefits or job security. Many workers must take on additional hours to make ends meet, increasing their risk of accidents. Compensation for workplace fatalities is often insufficient to support families left behind. Calls are being made for increased safety measures, waste management, and labor rights in the industry, with a focus on government support and corporate responsibility.
Overall, the ship-breaking industry is at a critical juncture, with the need for concerted efforts to improve safety, protect the environment, and ensure fair treatment of workers. International cooperation and support from governments, employers, and ship owners are crucial to bringing about positive change in this challenging sector.
