Ship recycling, involving the dismantling of ships, poses significant risks, with high levels of fatalities, injuries and work-related diseases despite international regulations. The sector also faces challenges related to inadequate waste management, leading to the contamination of coastal areas with toxic waste. In response to these issues, the EU-funded SHEREC project will introduce innovative robotics, data and AI systems to the ship recycling industry to set new standards for worker safety and environmental responsibility. The project envisions the use of an AI-powered drone to locate hazardous materials, while a digital twin of the ship and AI-based planning methods will automate the ship’s recycling plan. In addition, two mobile robotic systems will be introduced to robotise cutting and paint removal processes.