Rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events affect not only ships, ports and maritime infrastructure, but may also impact the quality and behaviour of cargoes when transported across the world’s oceans. This means a change in risk exposure to cargo claims, with new challenges in both frequency and severity of claims.
Among the cargoes likely to be affected are grains and solid bulk. Many of these cargoes are highly sensitive to moisture, temperature, and stowage conditions. Climate variability is altering harvest quality, increasing the likelihood of cargo being loaded with elevated moisture or latent damage. Once at sea, prolonged voyages, more humid environments, and unpredictable weather patterns heighten the risk of mould growth, fermentation, and caking, potentially leading to deterioration, cargo rejection, and disputes over liability.
This publication focuses on the impact of climate change on the risks associated with solid bulk and grain cargoes. It also points out the practical steps which may be taken and provides recommendations on mitigation strategies.
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