Neocolonialism and the Ecological Crisis of the Suez Canal

Abstract

Since its construction in the mid-1800’s, Egypt’s Suez Canal has been a source of international conflict, economic growth, and ecological turmoil. Because it regularly transports a large number of oil tankers from the Suez Port to Port Said, the canal is one of the most valuable waterways in the world. However, in linking the Mediterranean and Red Sea, the canal has caused hundreds of invasive species to migrate to the Mediterranean -- most notably invasive sea jellies. This has led to damaging effects on industries surrounding the welfare of the sea; for example, fisheries and tourism. In late 2015, despite these ecological concerns, the canal was expanded to include a parallel channel, allowing for two-way travel. While supporters envisioned positive transformations to Egypt’s high poverty and unemployment rates, the expansion’s possible long-term effects on the ocean and industries based on the ocean were neglected in discussion. My goal is to examine these ongoing effects and their consequences on humans whose livelihoods depend on the Mediterranean Sea as a resource, with a focus on how the influx of migrating species, specifically gelatinous zooplankton, have already affected fisheries, agriculture, and tourism. I also look at the eutrophication of nearby waters through chemical disposal from local factories, one of the causes of jellyfish blooms. While the Suez Canal has led to much economic growth for Egypt, the waterway’s growing negative ecological effects may override its positive influences in the long run.