The Northern Sea Route (NSR) has steadily emerged as an alternative route that can make life easier for maritime stakeholders. The route, which is made possible due to increased global temperatures, is typically passable in the warmer months of the year. Since its opening in 1991, the NSR has witnessed growing traffic, with studies estimating that more than 80 million tons of cargo will pass through the route by 2024.

1. Arctic Maritime Traffic
&
The Northern Sea
Route

2. The Northern Sea Route (NSR) has steadily emerged as an alternative route that
can make life easier for maritime stakeholders. The route, which is made possible
due to increased global temperatures, is typically passable in the warmer months
of the year. Since its opening in 1991, the NSR has witnessed growing traffic, with
studies estimating that more than 80 million tons of cargo will pass through the
route by 2024.
While shipping vessels may not sustain speeds along the NSR like they would along
other major shipping routes, speeds are likely to increase with continued use. That
shipping vessels continue to increase average speeds through the NSR means there
might be a future where the NSR rivals other established routes.
The Northern Sea Route

3. According to shipping insiders, the NSR provides a much shorter route between China
and Northern Europe (and vice versa). Estimates put this reduction at 40% shorter
than what it would take to connect the two points via the Suez Canal. Consequently,
a reduction in distance would mean significant decreases in fuel and transportation
time for shipping vessels. Piracy risk could also be eliminated.
Why the NSR?

4. Victor
Olerskiy
To learn more about this
topic, visit the blog of
Victor Olerskiy.