Environmental pollution and shipping feasibility of the Nicaragua Canal

Mar Pollut Bull. 2016 Dec 15;113(1-2):87-93. doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.08.074. Epub 2016 Aug 31.

Abstract

In recent years, the Nicaraguan government's renewed interest in constructing this interoceanic canal has once again aroused widespread concern, particularly in the global shipping industry. The project's immense ecological risks, coupled with the recent expansions of both the Panama Canal and the Suez Canal, have raised questions among scientists and experts about its viability. Whether the Nicaragua Canal is really feasible for international shipping, given its high marine pollution risks, requires the further study. This paper discusses and analyses the feasibility of the Nicaragua Canal in the context of its environmental impact and value as a shipping service. This paper aims to provide an important information reference to inform strategic decision-making among policymakers and stakeholders. Our research results indicate that the environmental complexity, economic costs and safety risks of building a new transoceanic canal are simply too high to justify the project.

Keywords: International shipping; Marine pollution; Nicaragua Canal; Risk; Uncertainty.

MeSH terms

  • Conservation of Natural Resources / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Decision Making
  • Economic Development
  • Environmental Pollution / analysis
  • Environmental Pollution / prevention & control*
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Humans
  • Nicaragua
  • Panama Canal Zone
  • Ships*