India is aiming to strengthen its position in the global ship recycling industry by expanding its role in environmentally sustainable, or “green,” ship recycling. Building on its emergence as a leading destination for vessel dismantling, the country is focusing on improving compliance with international environmental and safety standards while enhancing the competitiveness of its recycling yards.
The government’s efforts are centered on modernising ship recycling infrastructure, promoting safe recycling practices, and encouraging more facilities to adopt globally recognised standards. Indian ship recycling yards, particularly those equipped to meet the requirements of international regulations, are expected to benefit from growing demand for responsible end-of-life vessel management.
Green ship recycling enables the recovery and reuse of valuable materials such as steel, non-ferrous metals, and machinery while minimising environmental impact and improving worker safety. As shipping companies increasingly prioritise sustainable disposal of ageing fleets, demand for certified recycling facilities is expected to rise.
Industry stakeholders believe India’s expanding capabilities, skilled workforce, and established recycling ecosystem position the country to capture a larger share of the global market. Continued investment in technology, regulatory compliance, and sustainable practices is expected to reinforce India’s standing as a preferred destination for environmentally responsible ship recycling while supporting the broader goals of the circular economy and maritime sustainability.
