US envoy visits PHP Shipyard, highlights need for safer ship recycling

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen has underscored the importance of safe working conditions in ship recycling after visiting PHP Ship Breaking and Recycling Industries Ltd in Chattogram today (29 October).

During the visit, the ambassador observed the recycling of a vessel and reviewed the facility’s safety arrangements and operational practices. PHP Shipyard is recognised as Bangladesh’s first green shipyard.

Christensen, accompanied by his wife Deanne Dao and a delegation from the US Embassy, also met the company’s management to learn about its operations and efforts to improve safety and environmental standards in ship recycling, according to a press release.

In a message recorded in the shipyard’s guest comments book, the ambassador wrote, “Fascinating to come out and see the continued efforts to ensure this important work can be completed safely. Look forward to continued collaboration.”

Leena Khan, labour attaché at the US Embassy, also praised the company’s commitment to workplace safety in a message to Mohammad Zahirul Islam Rinku, managing director of PHP Ship Breaking and Recycling Industries Ltd.

Leena thanked the company for welcoming the delegation and said she appreciated the opportunity to learn about the ship recycling process and observe its efforts to maintain safe working conditions. She described the sector’s progress as inspiring and expressed hope for continued communication and engagement.

Rinku and Mohammad Akther Parvez, managing director of PHP Automobiles, took part in discussions with the visiting delegation.

Other members of the delegation included John Brunsdale, economic officer; Aric Wells, security-in-charge; Asif Ahmed, economic specialist; Saifuzzaman Mehrab, labour specialist; Mahadi Al Hasnat, public diplomacy coordinator; and members of the embassy’s security team.

The visit comes as Bangladesh’s ship recycling industry faces the challenge of balancing its economic contribution with stronger environmental safeguards and worker protection.

The industry supplies scrap steel and other materials to domestic industries, particularly the steel sector, while supporting jobs and related economic activities. But concerns over workplace accidents, hazardous materials and pollution have made compliance with internationally recognised standards increasingly important.

Green ship recycling practices focus on reducing environmental damage, improving workers’ safety and ensuring the proper handling of hazardous waste. Progress in these areas is also important for maintaining the competitiveness of Bangladesh’s ship recycling industry in international markets.

PHP Shipyard’s operations represent an effort to move the sector towards more environmentally responsible recycling and improved workplace standards. The ambassador’s visit also provided an opportunity to strengthen engagement between the company and the US Embassy on these issues.