Climate Crisis in the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is one of the world’s most important waterways, connecting the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. The history of the canal dates back to the late 16th century. This strategic location, first discovered by Spanish colonists, was begun to be constructed in the late 19th century by French engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps and later by a team led by the United States. It was completed in 1914.

The climate changes we are experiencing today are negatively affecting the daily operations and ship traffic of the canal, which accounts for 6% of world trade. Increasing extreme weather events and fluctuations in water levels are making it difficult to maintain safe ship traffic. Additionally, this situation is causing changes in water temperatures, which in turn are having negative effects on marine life and ecosystems.

In a recent statement by the Panama Trade Office, the number of ships passing through the canal has been reduced to 36, 35, and finally 31 in July, August, and September, respectively. The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has announced that it will gradually reduce ship transits starting November 3, 2023, for water conservation purposes. It was stated that this is the driest period since 1950, and that 25 ships per day will be allowed to pass between November 3 and 7, 2023, and 24 ships per day between November 8 and 30, 2023. In this context, it is important for ships using the Panama Canal to check the “transit reservation system” and take into account possible restrictions.

The problems experienced in the Panama Canal are not only regional but also a concrete reflection of the global climate crisis. The climate crisis is a reality that affects not only certain regions but the entire world. For this reason, the need for international cooperation and solution-oriented policies on sustainability and climate action has become more important than ever. The challenges faced in the Panama Canal serve as a reminder that we are faced with a shared responsibility to combat the climate crisis and leave a more livable world for future generations.