Recycling of Floating Offshore Structures

Abstract Recycling is the final stage in the lifecycle of an offshore structure. Out of the 200 floating offshore platforms currently in operation, nearly 150 may be decommissioned by 2030. The objective of the paper is to propose an efficient methodology for sustainable recycling of floating offshore structures. The methodology includes a set of instructions for different phases in the form of line diagrams, for implementation in the actual recycling of floating offshore structures. A comprehensive literature review has been conducted to investigate the recycling methods presently practiced in the case of ships and other marine structures, applicable regulations in ship recycling. Data on floating offshore structures that are presently in operation have been collected. The ship recycling methods have been studied in detail and the effectiveness of extending the ship recycling methods to the recycling of offshore structures has been assessed, taking into consideration the arrangement, size and complexities associated with the offshore structures as compared to the ships. A detailed plan, in the form of line diagrams, for recycling of floating offshore structures has been developed. The plan indicates the proposed methodology for recycling these structures and the various recycling processes. This plan aims to provide the valuable insights and guidance to industry professionals for implementing sustainable practices in recycling of floating offshore platforms. It also offers an integrated plan that stakeholders, can use to evaluate the recycling cost and other potential benefits of recycling. This plan can also act as a basis for the preparation of the vessel-specific recycling plan which will enable to identify the hazards. While numerous studies have been carried out on ship recycling, the literature on the recycling of floating offshore structures remains sparse. This highlights the necessity for carrying out more comprehensive research in this area in order to address the challenges, risks, hazards, and opportunities associated with the recycling of floating offshore platforms. Therefore, developing the methodologies of recycling is crucial for safe, healthy, and sustainable practices and innovative solutions in the recycling of marine structures.