Harland and Wolff Shipyard to Recycle Obsolete Marine Vessels

The historic UK shipyard that built the "TITANIC" is trying to become the first yard in the United Kingdom to be licensed for dismantling obsolete ships and other offshore structures. The yard’s managers have joined with Golder Associates, a worldwide environmental waste management company, to provide a new marine vessel and offshore structure recovery and recycling service.

The shipyard’s bid to scrap old vessels in an environmentally friendly manner fits in well with other recent “green” efforts, which include the assembly of an offshore wind farm and the production of a wave-energy prototype generator. The entry of Harland and Wolff in conjunction with Golder Associates into the ship recycling business also continues a trend in the UK where other companies, notably Able UK, have been applying for the license to dismantle obsolete vessels. Able UK is continuing with its effort to complete the dismantling of thirteen vessels obtained from the U.S. Maritime Administration.

Vessel recycling in Europe could potentially grow into a major industry, operating within tight environmental, health, and safety guidelines, especially as world pressure on Asian dismantlers with poor health and safety records continues to build. In the UK, the promise of jobs and economic development make the business of ship dismantling particularly attractive, especially at yards like H&W, where some of the largest drydocks in Europe are located.