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Abandonment of ships and irregular dismantling worsen environmental damage and threaten safety in coastal waters in Brazil and around the world
The increase in so-called ship cemeteries is causing great concern worldwide. In many cases, the dismantling of these vessels It happens in poorer countries, where labor is cheaper and there is a lack of effective environmental enforcement laws.
The dismantling of cargo and passenger ships has already reached around 1.200 vessels per year. This process requires specific technology and equipment to minimize damage to the marine and coastal environment.
Abandoned ships: an invisible threat
The biggest problem is the abandonment of ships in coastal waters. In these areas, young marine life develops most intensively. Chemicals released by abandoned ships critically affect the juvenile biota, which is extremely sensitive.
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In addition to the environmental impact, abandonment also poses a risk to public health. Poisonous gases, heavy metals and toxic chemicals spread, exposing the population to serious dangers.
Environmental damage and risks to navigation
Over time, the hull of a vessel deteriorates, releasing an abundance of chemicals and ferrous materials. This contamination harms marine fauna and flora and can take years to reverse.
The sinking of these carcasses compromises the exchange of water in bays and estuaries. Furthermore, these structures become dangerous traps for maritime transport, affecting navigation safety.
Unsafe dismantling worsens the problem of abandoned ships
Another critical point is the dismantling of ships without the appropriate techniques and equipment. Many serious accidents, including deaths and permanent disability of workers, are recorded.
These precarious dismantling sites cause leaks of fuel, oil, corrosive products and cargo residues. The contamination aggressively affects fragile coastal areas and can destroy ecosystems formed over centuries.
Materials such as iron, plastics and petroleum derivatives become long-lasting pollutants. Elements such as lead, cadmium, mercury and nickel are just a few examples of the heavy metals found. In addition to these, asbestos, paint residues and toxic fumes also appear.
Critical situation in Brazil
In Brazil, the abandonment of end-of-life ships continues to be a problem, especially visible in large bays. Examples include Guanabara Bay, All Saints Bay, Paranaguá Bay and Santos and São Vicente Bay.
In 2025, only in Guanabara Bay, have already been identified more than 60 carcasses of large vessels. In addition to these, numerous fishing, pleasure and small transport boats are also abandoned or sunk.
Now aware of the risks that abandoned ships pose, society needs to demand immediate action to correctly decommission these vessels.
Responsible entities must work with qualified technicians to create efficient policies and strategies. The goal should be to ensure the safe and environmentally responsible dismantling of end-of-life ships.
The protection of the marine environment depends on the joint efforts of civil society, governments and specialized institutions.
With information from Olhar Oceanografo.
