Pakistan has officially launched its first Hong Kong Convention (HKC) certified ship recycling facility, the Prime Green Recycling Yard, marking a major step toward modernizing the country’s shipbreaking industry.
The certification aligns the yard with international standards on environmental protection, hazardous waste management, and worker safety, areas that have long drawn criticism in traditional shipbreaking operations.
The HKC certification is issued under the Hong Kong International Convention of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which sets global guidelines to ensure safe and sustainable dismantling of ships.
By achieving this standard, Pakistan joins a select group of countries meeting rigorous environmental and safety requirements, signaling a structural shift in how ship recycling is managed in the region.
Officials say the Prime Green Recycling Yard incorporates modern technology to handle hazardous materials like asbestos, oil residues, and heavy metals safely, while providing secure working conditions for laborers. The yard also includes facilities to minimize environmental impact, including wastewater treatment and waste recycling systems.
The government has expressed plans to expand HKC-certified operations across other shipbreaking locations in Pakistan. By doing so, authorities aim to position the country as a competitive and environmentally responsible hub for ship recycling in South Asia, attracting international business while creating safer jobs for workers.
Industry analysts believe this development could improve Pakistan’s global image in maritime trade, promote sustainable industrial practices, and generate revenue through compliance with international standards.
With the Prime Green Recycling Yard now operational, Pakistan is taking concrete steps toward a safer, greener, and more internationally integrated ship recycling industry.
