Climate Change and Global Sea Routes: Implications for the Arctic and Suez Canal Corridors

Climate change has begun to impact global maritime trade by shifting traditional sea routes and affecting the operational efficiency, safety, and economics of shipping. Extreme weather events, changes in wind patterns, rising sea levels, and the melting of polar ice caps are restructuring major maritime corridors and their dependencies. The objective of the study is to examine the effects of climate change on sea routes, particularly those in the Arctic and the Suez Canal. Using a qualitative approach with data from articles, peer-reviewed journals, and reports from international organisations, a SWOT analysis was conducted. The findings reveal interruptions in maritime trade due to accessibility issues during extreme weather, increased fuel costs, insurance challenges, and emerging geopolitical competition over Arctic routes. While melting Arctic Sea ice offers shorter passages between Europe and Asia, it presents navigational and environmental challenges. Extreme weather conditions threaten global supply chains by causing delays and infrastructure damage. The study recommends adaptive and practical maritime policies, such as enhanced international cooperation, revised maritime laws and regulations, and investment in infrastructure.