Damen Shipyards Group has unveiled a groundbreaking pilot project aimed at revolutionizing shipbreaking practices. The initiative involves the dismantling of a small tug at Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam’s Botlek site, following circular principles and adhering strictly to EU regulations. This endeavor serves as a precursor to implementing environmentally friendly ship dismantling and recycling methods commercially, including for larger vessels.
Arnout Damen, CEO of Damen Shipyards Group, underscores the project’s alignment with the company’s sustainability goals. He emphasizes the importance of not only how ships are built and maintained but also how they are dismantled and recycled at the end of their lifespan. This initiative signifies a significant step towards Damen’s vision of becoming the world’s most sustainable shipbuilder.
The vessel chosen for this pioneering project is the Jan, constructed in 1927. Its dismantling will strictly adhere to the regulations outlined in the Ship Recycling Facility Plan at Damen Shiprepair Rotterdam’s Botlek site, ensuring both safety and environmental compliance. The site’s certification as an EU-listed Ship Recycling Facility further guarantees the environmentally sound disposal of the 15.4-meter-long tug.
Partnering in this endeavor is Bottelier Slooptechniek, a certified specialist in circular demolition. Nick van Egten, Commercial Director and Co-owner of the Bottelier Group, highlights the meticulous process of identifying and assessing materials from the Jan for potential reuse. This approach maximizes both environmental benefits and economic returns from materials nearing the end of their lifecycle.
Post-project transparency is paramount, with detailed documentation on the dismantled materials and their subsequent reuse, recycling, or disposal. This commitment to transparency reinforces Damen’s dedication to sustainable practices and accountability throughout the shipbreaking process.
Looking ahead, Damen Shipyards Group, in collaboration with Offshore Ship Recycling Rotterdam, is already formulating plans for the commercialization and financing of circular ship dismantling projects. Damen Financial Services plays a pivotal role in this endeavor, signaling a proactive approach towards integrating circularity into maritime industry practices.
This pilot project marks a significant milestone in Damen Shipyards Group’s journey towards sustainable shipbuilding and operations. By embracing circular principles in shipbreaking, the industry can mitigate environmental impact while fostering innovation and accountability.
