International Maritime Organization announced that the Arctic shipping code will be released and in use before 2016.
Arctic shipping code, regulating navigation in the high Arctic, where maritime traffic is expected to increase as the ice cap recedes, is due to be implemented in 2016 as confirmed by International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Shipping along the Arctic northern sea route is set to grow more than 30 – fold over the next eight years and could account for a quarter of the cargo traffic between Europe and Asia by 2030.
It is predicted for the code to be operational in 2015 and to be fully implemented in 2016. The code aims to ensure safe navigation in fragile ecological environment, where infrastructure is few and help in case of an accident is far away.
The new code will govern all technical requirements covering design and operations. It will ensure the competence of seafarers.
By implementing the international polar code, IMO makes sure that vessels will not be allowed to navigate in the Arctic waters unless seafarers on board are well trained.
Opening of the Arctic waters caused by the global warming will increase the usage of high northern passages. Read more about the future of the Arctic shipping on Shipping Portlet – comprehensive gateway to Arctic shipping information on the internet.
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