Dutch startup CMT International begins testing solution for circular ship dismantling

For years, the need for a sustainable and safe solution to process large seagoing vessels at the end of their life has been clear. However, less responsible alternatives have always attracted more attention due to their significantly lower costs. Now, Dutch startup CMT International is changing that. 

CMT International is developing a groundbreaking solution to dismantle seagoing ships in a circular, safe, and competitive manner. In the fourth quarter of 2024, CMT, together with technology partner Huisman from Schiedam, will test the first prototype of the wire saw, the key component of the innovative technology. Following this, CMT will work with a consortium of partners and investors to develop the first shipyard where ships can be dismantled. The development of this solution is made possible with support from leading investors such as Sojitz Corporation and Jansen Recycling, with financing from the Kansen voor West subsidy of the European Union. 

This development provides a solution to the controversial practice of “beaching” ships in Asia, where vessels are dismantled under dangerous and polluting conditions. Moreover, CMT's solution offers a crucial element for the sustainability of steel production—clean, high-quality scrap metal. The company's automated and circular process will make ship dismantling safer, more efficient, and cost-competitive. The technology also addresses a critical need in the steel industry by providing high-quality, clean scrap metal—an essential component for the sustainable production of steel. 

In the coming years, a large supply of seafaring vessels is expected to reach the end of their service life and require dismantling. For instance, large cargo ships built in response to global economic growth in the 2000s are now reaching the end of their lifespan. However, there is a shortage of shipyards that meet the international environmental and safety standards required for sustainable and safe ship recycling.  

Meanwhile, the global steel industry has set a goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and is working towards decarbonizing the steel production process. The industry aims to shift from the traditional blast furnace method to an alternative method using electric arc furnaces by 2030. This will reduce CO2 emissions by about a quarter. High-quality steel scrap is a crucial element for this process, but there is a significant global shortage. 

Together with its technical partners and financiers, CMT International is leading a circular revolution in ship dismantling. The first tangible results of this transition will be visible in 2024. 

For the editorial office 

This press release invites all stakeholders to learn about the revolution taking place in the ship dismantling industry and the impact this technological advancement will have on global efforts toward a more sustainable future. 

About CMT International 

CMT International is a Dutch startup specialized in providing circular, safe, and competitive solutions for dismantling seagoing vessels. By developing an innovative automated process, CMT is able to recover crucial raw materials, such as steel scrap, from ships safely and efficiently. Headquartered in Rotterdam, CMT works with a consortium of leading partners and investors to revolutionize the ship dismantling industry. 

Established: 2022

Location: Kamerlingh Onnesweg 10c, 2991 XL Barendrecht, The Netherlands

Representative Director: Frank G. Geerdink 

About Huisman 

Huisman is a global supplier of step-changing engineering solutions to leading companies worldwide in the renewable energy, oil and gas, civil, marine, and recreation markets. Their projects range from single components to highly complex integrated systems, from concept to installation and lifetime maintenance. Huisman operates through offices in the Netherlands, Brazil, China, Czech Republic, Norway, Singapore, and the U.S., with production facilities in the Netherlands, Brazil, Czech Republic, and China.