IMO ship recycling gathering gets underway in Hong Kong

Hong Kong: Today sees a meeting in Hong Kong to consider approving a new International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships. Countries are expected to agree on measures that require new ships to limit the amounts of hazardous materials they're built with and require older ships to be broken down in yards that meet certain environmental standards. The convention is also expected to require recycling facilities to be put in place, introduce measures that reduce explosions and other accidents as well ensuring workers are properly trained and provided with safety equipment. More than 800 delegates will flock to Hong Kong's Exhibition and Convention Centre for the five day IMO summit. [11/05/09]