With the melting of ice across the Arctic region lies Arctic shipping routes, the shipping industry is coming into play. The Northern Sea Route of Russia observed 104 transits at the conclusion of September 2026, surpassing the total of last year by a single one and taking the estimates to approximately150 transits by the end of the year.
What changed Arctic shipping routes in 2026?
Sea Legend, a Chinese company, launched the first-ever scheduled container service within the Arctic region and completed eight trips while transporting more than 14,000 TEU.
Why not Suez?
The route is rather short but only available on a seasonal basis while weather forecasts prevent departures even earlier than that. The Northwest Passage saw just 63 commercial cargo movements, and the use of container vessels is not expected here.
What are the risks?
According to our study on underwater noise, ships produce soot that can accelerate melting of ice, while noise pollution negatively influences animals. Bellona believes that commercial use of the Arctic shipping routes is improper due to the fact that ships are outdated and not suitable for ice conditions. Likewise, check our article about Antarctic ice.
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