Marine casualties can have serious and lasting environmental consequences. Skuld works proactively with members, response specialists and technical experts to help minimise harm and support responsible clean-up, wreck removal, waste management and recycling.
Responding to evolving pollution risks
Pollution response now extends beyond traditional oil spills. Microplastics, lost containers and cargo, and waste or debris washed ashore can also create significant environmental and operational challenges.
Skuld works closely with ITOPF and other experts to understand these evolving risks and support effective responses. When marine casualties result in pollution or shoreline contamination, our claims teams remain actively engaged in the follow-up, with the aim of limiting harmful consequences.
Responsible wreck removal and recycling
Wreck removal and recycling operations can involve complex environmental, safety, social and governance considerations. Skuld supports responsible solutions throughout the claims process.
Depending on the circumstances, this may include recycling at an appropriate professional facility, following up through site visits, or considering repair and reuse where this is a safe and viable alternative.
Assessing environmental and wider impacts
Skuld is developing a consistent approach for assessing significant incidents involving pollution. This allows us to compare different types of incidents, identify lessons and continuously strengthen our response.
Our assessment of wreck removal operations may consider:
- Pollution minimisation, including the management of oil and debris
- Waste generated, recycling and opportunities for reuse
- Operational greenhouse gas emissions
- Safety, risk analysis and mitigation
- Diversity and gender balance
- Anti-corruption and anti-bribery safeguards
- Engagement with affected stakeholders
This broader perspective helps ensure that environmental considerations are assessed alongside safety, governance and social impacts.
Building preparedness and expertise
As pollution risks evolve, Skuld continues to strengthen the readiness of its claims organisation. This includes internal casualty scenario exercises, specialist training on hazardous and noxious substance incidents, and collaboration with organisations such as ITOPF.
Dedicated environmental claims expertise helps embed learning across the organisation and strengthens our ability to respond to both established and emerging forms of marine pollution.
By combining claims experience, specialist insight and consistent analysis, Skuld aims to support safe, responsible and transparent outcomes following marine casualties.