| Summary: | Global climate change that accelerated global warming resulted in an extraordinary 50-year retreat of
Arctic sea ice. An unprecedented increase in marine access through the Arctic region was spotted. The
High North which was kept in pristine condition began going through developments and changes to
cope with the rise in marine access. Over the years, several arctic routes have emerged such as the
Northern Sea Route (NSR) and Northwest Passage (NWP) which sparked interests of Arctic states and
non-Arctic nations due to cost and substantial time saved.
However, there are many considerations to be taken into account before a company or a nation plunge
into decisions relating to shipping in the Arctic. Beside different economical consideration faced by
various countries and businesses, technical considerations such as the lack of Search and Rescue (SAR)
facilities or infrastructures that can withstand the weather conditions in Arctic region and environmental
considerations like worsening of pollution that influences endangered species or indigenous people
living in the Arctic region.
Hence, this report aims to look into the 3 main impacts of developments in Arctic shipping which are
environmental, technological and economic impacts, mainly focusing on the environment impacts with
a brief information on technological and economic impacts. Research was conducted to examine their
respective contributions and this report helps to consolidate the results. Surveys and interviews were
also conducted to have a better understanding of the correlation between academic research and
professional opinion. Prospects of commercial shipping remain relatively low due to insufficient
infrastructures and high cost. However, more extractions are developed in the area resulting in higher
level of pollution.
Together with the research reports of my 2 other team members (Melisa Yeo Hui Mei and Lim YiJun)
which focuses on economic and technological impacts respectively, recommendations are proposed to
resolve and minimise the cons of developing the Arctic shipping routes. In the environment aspects, it
is recommended for all shipping companies using the Arctic routes to adhere to new polar code strictly
and play their part in protecting the unique ecosystem and wildlife of Arctic.
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