Sustainable end-of-life management of abandoned and derelict vessels through the lens of circular economy

Boats require End-of-Life (EOL) management, especially those built with fibre-reinforced plastic/polymer materials because they are hard to dispose and have negative effects on the environment. The main challenge with EOL boats or abandoned and derelict vessels (ADVs) is the lack of sustainable disposal options for recycling and reusing composite plastics, which should be safe, managed, sustainable, and economically viable. Most efforts have focused on dealing with ADVs in water rather than on land. This study provides a systematic review of 101 studies of End-of-Life Boat (ELB) management and seeks methods to deal with derelict vessels, challenges in their management, potential solutions, and a comparison and assessment of EOL opportunities in terms of sustainability and circular economy. Research gaps were identified, and suggestions for future research directions were proposed. The marine industry faces gaps in practical implementation and understanding of sustainable principles and lacks effective regulations, cost-effective methods, and suitable technologies for sustainable management, particularly for recycling and reusing. The present review highlights the importance of a harmonized approach, financing mechanisms, sustainable dismantling and transport, material reuse and upcycling, industry partnerships, centralized recycling systems, and investments in research and innovation as crucial elements for enhancing the circular economy.