The European Steel Association (EUROFER) has called for the ship recycling facilities in Aliağa to be removed from the European Union ship recycling system until they meet environmental and occupational safety standards.

The ship recycling facilities operating in Aliağa have once again come to the forefront with a stern statement from Europe. EUROFER, one of the strongest organizations in the European steel sector, has demanded the removal of the facilities in the region from the EU ship recycling list, citing that they do not meet environmental and occupational safety standards.

Pressure from Europe for 'compliance with standards'

EUROFER and some environmental organizations in Europe have long been calling for stricter oversight, arguing that the methods used in ship dismantling processes pose environmental risks. It has been stated that the method of grounding ships for dismantling presents risks in terms of both environmental pollution and occupational safety, emphasizing that ships sent from Europe should only be recycled in fully compliant facilities.

Extraordinary meeting decision in Aliağa

Following the call, attention turned to the sector representatives in the region. It has been learned that the structure representing the ship recycling companies in Aliağa has decided to hold an extraordinary meeting to evaluate the developments.

Sector representatives indicate that the flow of ships from Europe is critical for the regional economy, and it is assessed that a potential restriction could lead to both job losses and a decrease in income. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process and environmental discussions have recently been at the center of debates due to environmental impacts in Aliağa. It is known that a new process has been initiated following the cancellation of the ongoing EIA process in the region. Under the new plan being prepared, a public participation meeting is expected to be held on June 23, while the reassessment of the environmental impacts of the activities is on the agenda.

Billions of lira in investments may be at risk

According to sector sources, potential restrictions that may come from the European Union could affect not only operations but also large-scale investments made in the region. Last year, land sales made by the Aliağa Municipality's subsidiary and the subsequent investment plans had created an economic activity worth billions of lira. A potential EU decision could create uncertainty in this financial structure.

Source: SeaNews Türkiye