The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology has issued report on safety and sustainability of shipping and offshore activities in the Arctic.
The report is based on a round table discussion held by the IMarEST in September 2015. The aim of the round table was to discuss key questions about the emerging risks, how those risks can be assessed and planned for, how they can be mitigated, whether policy and regulation are fit for purpose, and how Arctic activities and their effects can be monitored. A survey conducted in advance of the round table explored the key Arctic risks, and formed the basis of the discussions.
According to the report geopolitical perspectives are of foremost importance in addressing Arctic risks and opportunities at the global scale rather than just the regional one. There is a unique opportunity to put effective international legislation in place, but collaboration and coordination between stakeholders and operators is paramount to the implementation of legislation and in particular the Polar Code.
Furthermore, policy and regulations need to be clear and easily understood in order to be successfully implemented. At the core lies the need for increased professional and public awareness of current Arctic operations. Investment in education, training, and understanding of policy and legislation is equally as important as investment in new technologies. Arctic shipping and offshore activities present major new engineering, technical and technological challenges.
Improved ship designs according to classification rules and requirements will safeguard Arctic operations. Port waste management facilities and marine monitoring and communication infrastructures are essential. More icebreakers and support vessels along with specialized port facilities are needed for improved emergency capabilities and Search and Rescue.
Moreover, ice navigation will remain complicated due to the complexities of ice formation and extremely low temperatures. Careful operational planning by well-trained professionals is necessary. However, for the time being the Arctic is comparatively poorly observed, and the lack of data will inevitably make planning difficult. An Arctic observation network could be the solution to this problem.
The Arctic is often described as a vast new economic frontier, but growth should be kept in line with infrastructure, and with the needs of the natural environment. Financing may be a key part of the answer to minimizing risks associated with Arctic development. Sustainability will only be achieved through a cohesive, concerted effort.
Further details can be found by reading the report below
Source & Image credit: IMarEST
