The Value of Commercial Marine Shipping to Canada

Summary

This second report commissioned by Clear Seas and produced by the Council of Canadian Academies examines the value that Canadians receive from marine shipping. The study examines a scope that extends beyond economic impacts and draws conclusions about how marine shipping contributes much to Canadians’ daily lives – whether or not they live in coastal communities.

The report was developed by a multidisciplinary and multisectoral panel of ten experts (the Panel). Guided by Mary Brooks, Professor Emerita, Rowe School of Business, Dalhousie University (Halifax NS) the Panel examined the best available evidence on marine shipping and its value for more than a year.

Overall, this study confirms how marine shipping’s contribution to the lives of Canadians and the Canadian economy is frequently underestimated.

Table of Contents

• Executive Summary
• Introduction
• Overview of marine shipping and trade in Canada
• Illustrations of the role of shipping in Canadian industries and regions
• National perspectives
• Regional and local perspectives
• Trends that may affect future shipping activity
• Conclusions

Key Takeaway

By moving goods and people, marine shipping has played a formative role in Canada’s history. Today, despite other competing modes of commercial transportation, marine shipping remains an important part of Canada’s economy and culture.

The regional and local impacts of marine trade and shipping employment are unevenly distributed across Canada. Some negative cultural, environmental, and security impacts tend be concentrated locally.

Commercial marine shipping is evolving in response to global and domestic social trends. The overall effect of these trends will likely increase future shipping activity in Canada.

Research Team

Council of Canadian Academies