Presidentially approved project marks milestone in Egypt’s “Green Canal” strategy
The Suez Canal has marked a major step forward in maritime environmental protection with the launch of fully IMO-compliant hazardous waste reception services for vessels transiting the waterway, a development widely seen as a landmark achievement for both regional sustainability and global shipping standards.
The initiative, delivered by Antipollution Egypt, a member of Greece-based V Group, introduces comprehensive management of ship-generated hazardous waste in strict alignment with MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) requirements.
The entire environmental project has been approved by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, underscoring its national importance and its central role in Egypt’s broader sustainability agenda.
Strategic importance for global shipping
The Suez Canal handles approximately 12% of global trade, making environmental safeguards in the region essential. The introduction of certified hazardous waste reception services ensures that vessels can discharge waste safely, efficiently, and in full regulatory compliance, significantly reducing the risk of marine pollution.
The move aligns the Canal with leading international ports that have adopted advanced port reception facilities under IMO standards.
Technology-driven, zero-waste approach
The new services will be supported by advanced technological innovation, incorporating a zero-waste strategy and targeting net zero carbon emissions, positioning the Suez Canal at the forefront of sustainable maritime infrastructure.
Antipollution Egypt’s offering covers the full chain of hazardous waste management, from collection, transport and treatment to final disposal, in accordance with international environmental best practices.
Supporting the vision of a “Green Canal”
The project is a cornerstone of President El-Sisi’s vision to transform the Suez Canal into a “Green Canal”, combining operational efficiency with environmental responsibility.
Admiral Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority, has personally overseen the development of the project, ensuring its alignment with both national priorities and global environmental standards.
The initiative has also benefited from the strong and continued support of His Excellency Kamel Al-Wazir, Minister of Transport, whose involvement from the outset has been instrumental in bringing the project to execution.
Services to commence in April
The hazardous waste reception services are scheduled to commence operations on 15 April, marking the official start of a new era in environmentally responsible transit through the Suez Canal.
Industry ambition and global significance
Vyron Vasileiadis, Chairman of V Group, said:
“We are committed to making this one of the most important and historic marine environmental services worldwide. This is not just a project for the Suez Canal, it is a global benchmark for how shipping can operate responsibly and sustainably.”
A historic day for the Suez Canal
Industry stakeholders have described the launch as a historic day for the Suez Canal, Antipollution Egypt, and the wider maritime industry.
By enabling safe, compliant, and sustainable waste management at one of the world’s most critical trade routes, the initiative reinforces the Canal’s role not only as a global shipping hub but also as a leader in environmental protection.