A study on the roles of stakeholders to ensure safe and viable Arctic shipping

• Main Author: Yip, Wing To
• Other Authors: Lum Kit Meng
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2015
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Maritime studies
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/63395
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Global and regional anthropogenic warming has allowed marine access to the region in the High North, that was kept in pristine condition and largely undeveloped. The opening of Arctic routes, Northern Sea Route (NSR) and Northwest Passage (NWP) spark interests to transform them into transport corridor connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Moreover, region is forecast to become ice-free by this decade further attract more interest from the Arctic states and non-Arctic nations alike. However, the current regulatory framework is found to be lacking along with the relatively undeveloped physical and information infrastructure including navigational charts. More importantly, safety mechanisms like Search and Rescue (SAR) facilities are insufficient and inaptly equipped. Hence, this report aims to examine the current situation in the Far North from the perspectives of three identified stakeholders, the regulators, providers of supporting services and the shipping companies, regardless of the route being discussed or embarked on. Research will be conducted to look into their respective contributions in ensuring the viability and safety aspects. Survey and interviews were conducted in order to comprehend the sentiment and stance of concerned stakeholders about the current Arctic development and gain insights into possible roles across the maritime industry in the future. Prospects for Arctic trade remains relatively low given the high investment costs, infrastructure deficit, and limited cargo opportunities despite the commercial savings. Current regulations concerning crew training requirements are also found to be lacking. Hence, recommendations are proposed to enhance the viability of Arctic trade by establishing strategic public-private partnerships to resolve the infrastructure deficit and attract more cargo opportunities. In the safety aspect, encourage the exchange of information concerning the ice and weather conditions and engage thorough risk assessments with the support from other stakeholders.