SHIPBREAKING Meaning and
Definition
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Shipbreaking refers to the process of dismantling decommissioned or obsolete ships in order to salvage valuable materials and recycle them. It involves the systematic disassembly of ships, including cutting, breaking, and removing various components and parts, such as steel plates, machinery, equipment, and cables. Shipbreaking is typically carried out in specialized shipyards or facilities located near coastal areas.
The main objective of shipbreaking is to recover and recycle materials that can be utilized in various industries, such as steel manufacturing, construction, and shipbuilding. Ships contain significant amounts of steel, which is the primary resource targeted for salvage. This process plays a crucial role in the circular economy, as it helps reduce the demand for new steel production and minimizes the environmental impact of ship disposal.
Shipbreaking involves a range of hazardous activities, such as the handling and disposal of toxic substances like asbestos, oil, and other pollutants found on ships. Due to the potential risks to human health and the environment, shipbreaking is subject to stringent regulations and guidelines to ensure safety and proper waste management practices.
While shipbreaking provides economic benefits through the recovery of valuable materials, it is often associated with concerns regarding labor conditions, occupational safety, and environmental pollution. Therefore, there is an increasing focus on improving working conditions and environmental standards within the shipbreaking industry, striving to strike a balance between economic gains and responsible practices.
Etymology of SHIPBREAKING
The word "shipbreaking" is derived from the combination of two words: "ship" and "breaking".
The term "ship" originated from the Old English word "scip", which in turn came from the Proto-Germanic word "skipam". It has cognates in several other Germanic languages, such as Old Norse "skip", Old Frisian "skip", and Old High German "scif". The ultimate source of these words is believed to be the Proto-Indo-European root *skei- which meant "to cut" or "to split".
The word "breaking" is an Anglicization of the Old English word "brecan", which means "to crush, shatter, or break into pieces". This word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "brekanan".
