Type: Articles

Climate change leads to more sea ice and higher risks for commercial marine shipping

With an increased focus on Canada’s relationship with Indigenous peoples, what is the marine shipping industry doing to improve relations and to work together with Indigenous communities? This blog provides an overview of where the industry – from ports, ship builders and operators to educational and training bodies – is on the path towards reconciliation.

Commercial ships resupplying the remote communities of Canada’s Eastern Arctic face multiple logistical challenges along the way. This year, COVID-19 and the threat it posed to both the ships’ crews and northern communities was another challenge they had to deal with.

“Traditional Knowledge differs from Western science because of the way it is collected. Most of the knowledge in the community is passed on through oral storytelling. Just because it is conducted differently does not mean it is of any less value. It is important to remember that there are many different ways to collect and analyze data and that each method is just as valuable.” – Zuzanna Kochanowicz

The St. Lawrence marine corridor plays a key role in Canada’s economy and supply chain. The geography as well as the unique physical attributes and water dynamics of the St. Lawrence challenge the commercial ships transiting through this maritime route in more than one way.

“We must remember the premise of using chemical oil dispersants: Diluting the oil from a surface slick into the water column at sea to reduce its concentration to below toxic levels, enhance its degradation rate, and reduce its probability of reaching shore.” – Kenneth Lee

On its fifth anniversary, Clear Seas looks back at its accomplishments and reflects on the key role it will continue to play to support safe and sustainable marine shipping in Canada.

Efforts to reduce emissions from ships – including stricter regulations about marine fuels’ allowable level of sulphur – are curbing the use of heavy fuel oil (HFO) in the marine shipping industry.

Marine shipping is undergoing a major transformation as it seeks to decarbonize. How will wind power be part of the solution?

Overview of the environmental standards and certification programs aimed at encouraging ship owners and operators, industry providers and port authorities to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their environmental footprint.