Northern Sea Route

The Northern Sea Route (NSR) is a shipping pathway that runs along the northern coast of Russia, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through Arctic waters. It significantly shortens travel distances between Europe and Asia compared to traditional routes, like the Suez Canal. As ice melts due to climate change, the NSR is becoming more navigable, offering economic opportunities for trade. However, it also raises environmental concerns and geopolitical issues, as nations navigate shipping regulations, territorial rights, and the impacts of increased maritime traffic in vulnerable Arctic ecosystems.