The book focuses on the most significant man-made sea canals in the context of their strategic importance for maritime global trade. It provides insights into how these canals serve as key supply chains for industries, trade and the provision of food and energy, emphasizing their central role in sustainability and the world’s major shipping routes.

Providing a comprehensive introduction to how canals have influenced society, trade and transport while placing them in the broader context of their strategic importance for maritime global trade through sustainability, the book offers insights and practical understanding of how canals manage the needs of the planet, the viability of financial systems, and human well-being to meet human, economic and logistical needs. The driving forces behind and examples of major canal projects are explored, and the book invites reflection on how human interventions in nature with the subsequent use of large resources affect the landscape at the intersection of future transport needs and environmental concerns to ensure economic development.

Students and the public interested in canals, economic or logistical challenges between continents and nations, and in the context of global sustainability goals, will easily access necessary information on these topics, including industries such as ship operators, charterers, ports, industry and maritime service providers, as well as international organizations and governmental institutions, for updates related to international maritime trade and the important role of canals.