Brilliantcrank

Northern Sea Route Opens Up to Non-Russian Vessel, Makes Maritime History

Jenara Nerenberg writes, “The Northern Sea Route is rarely open due to large amounts of ice present most of the year, but that is changing with global warming and a Nordic ship is set to deliver its metals to Asia via the route for the first time in recent history, taking advantage of the longer period in which the route is open. The opening of the route will have vast implications for the shipping industry, a trade that was previously dependent on routes through the Suez Canal. In fact, fuel savings are expected to reach $180,000, carbon emissions are expected to reduce drastically, and the voyage time is cut back by one third, from 60-65 days to 19-20 days.”