SHORTSEA Meaning and
Definition
-
Shortsea refers to the transportation of goods and passengers by sea, typically between ports within the same country or region, without having to cross an ocean. It is a mode of shipping that focuses on transporting cargo over relatively shorter distances, such as along a coastal route or across a sea or large inland body of water.
Shortsea shipping offers an alternative to road or rail transportation for moving goods, especially in areas where road infrastructure is heavily congested or in regions where the distance between ports is relatively short. It is often seen as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transportation compared to land-based alternatives, as it can reduce traffic congestion, greenhouse gas emissions, and energy consumption.
This mode of transportation is particularly advantageous for bulk cargo, such as minerals, agricultural commodities, or construction materials, as well as for certain types of containers and Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) cargo, where vehicles can be driven onboard and offloaded easily. Shortsea shipping contributes to the development of regional trade, enhances economic integration, and promotes the use of multimodal transport networks, connecting ports to road and rail infrastructures.
It is important to note that the term "shortsea" is a combination of the words "short" and "sea", implying the transportation of goods by sea over relatively shorter distances, typically within the coastal or regional areas.
Etymology of SHORTSEA
The word "shortsea" is a combination of two words: "short" and "sea".
The term "short" comes from the Old English word "sceort", which means "not long" or "brief". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "skurtaz".
The word "sea" comes from the Old English word "sæ", which refers to a large body of saltwater. It has its origins in the Proto-Germanic word "saiwiz".
Therefore, when combined, "shortsea" refers to a brief or not long journey by sea. This term is commonly used to describe maritime shipping routes that connect nearby ports or regions, typically within a continent or a geographical region, rather than long-haul routes across oceans.
