The Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships was adopted by the International Maritime Organization in Hong Kong on 15 May 2009. The purpose of the Convention is to prevent, reduce and, as far as practicable, eliminate accidents, injuries and other undesirable effects on health and the environment as a result of ship recycling.
The Ministry of Climate and Environment has adopted amendments to the Regulations on the recycling of ships and mobile offshore units, and the Norwegian Maritime Authority NMA) has adopted amendments to the Regulations on port State control, as a result of the entry into force of the Hong Kong Convention. These regulatory amendments will enter into force on 26 June 2025, the same date as the Convention enters into force. Amendments to the Regulations on fees payable for services provided by the Norwegian Maritime Authority will be laid down by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries, with entry into force from the date determined by the Ministry.
The Regulations on the recycling of ships and mobile offshore units establish requirements for Norwegian ships covered by the Convention to carry an International Certificate of Hazardous Materials (IHM Certificate), which is issued with a validity of up to five years. Furthermore, amendments are laid down in the NMA’s Fee Regulations so that they include supervision and issuance of certificates in accordance with the Convention.