Germany Licences First Maritime Recycling Facility

Emden Werft and Dock - which has been a provider of repair and conversion services for the past century - is set to become Germany’s first maritime recycling facility following the completion of a government approvals process. 

Now that the year-long approval process has been completed, the dock will be able to undertake the dismantling of ships, wind turbines, and other industrial assets. It is anticipated that the vessels to be dismantled will include ocean-going vessels, inland waterway vessels, coasters, passenger ships and ferries. 

The facility will launch as an independent business - EWD Benli Recycling - in partnership with ReLog, a German recycling company. 

Commenting on the new business, Bjorn Sommer, who is one of two managing directors of EWD Benli Recycling, said: 

“The process took about a year, and we’re delighted that we can now meet the demand in Emden. In principle, we’ll be able to dismantle anything that can enter the port of Emden through the sea lock”.

The team is now in the process of starting the acquisition process, scoping out potential vessels and other assets for recycling. As Sommer commented: 

“After announcing last year that we wanted to enter this business field, we immediately received the first inquiries, which we had to reject due to the ongoing approval phase”. However, with approval now granted, the company is proactively soliciting enquiries: 

“We worked hand in hand and transparently at all times to enter this business. Ultimately, we are contributing to the continued prosperity of the Emden seaport and the retention of raw materials from old ships in Germany”.

Since 2020, the Emden Werft and Dock has been owned by the Benli Group. The Benli Group has strong experience with industrial plants, onshore and offshore wind turbines, and other industrial applications. It is hoped that Benli’s experience and connections will result in a pipeline of opportunities for the recycling business. 

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