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The sustainability of the Arctic: A case study analysis of container shipping

Journal: Transportation Research Procedia

Abstract:

The Circumpolar North area’s geography is changing, however, developing commercial shipping operations aiming to utilize Arctic trade routes is a speculative topic containing uncertainties. The Arctic has a unique, highly fragile ecosystem and the region is in early phases of development. Therefore, it would be a mistake to approach the development of the region with only commercial goals in mind. A comprehensive, forward-looking framework which integrates considerations of planning, development and climate change to create resiliency is necessary for the Arctic future. This cannot be established without cooperation of all related actors and stakeholders. This paper aims to support decision-making by finding potential solutions while discussing possible policies on container shipping within the Arctic; regarding sustainability issues of shipping industry and the Arctic region.