As reported changes to the world's climate appear to be increasing the accessibility of the Arctic to international shipping, this ICS position paper is intended to establish some key principles with respect to the governance of maritime activity in the Arctic and the regulation of ships navigating Arctic waters.

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is the principal international trade association for shipowners, representing all sectors and trades and over 80% of the world merchant fleet. ICS membership comprises national shipowners’ associations from 35 countries, including nations located within and outside the Arctic Circle.

Reported changes to the world’s climate appear to be increasing the accessibility of the Arctic to international shipping.1 These changes, as well as new interest in developing the Arctic’s natural resources, are likely to increase shipping traffic navigating through the region.

As the volume of Arctic shipping gradually increases, there is a growing awareness and concern within the international community about the potential sensitivity of Arctic ecosystems to the impact of such activity and the necessity for a high degree of care when ships navigate Arctic waters. These concerns are fully acknowledged and shared by international ship operators, as represented by ICS which is totally committed to the protection of the environment and the prevention of pollution.

The position paper is therefore intended to establish some key principles with respect to the governance of maritime activity in the Arctic and the regulation of ships navigating Arctic waters.

To read the position paper mentioned above, please download it below: