A new initiative, the High Ambition Coalition for a Quiet Ocean, has been launched to combat noise pollution in the world's oceans. This coalition aims to protect marine life by addressing the impact of noise from the global shipping industry.
The declaration, co-led by Canada and Panama, was signed by 27 European Union member countries, along with several other nations. These countries represent over half of the globally flagged fleet, demonstrating a commitment to reducing underwater noise.
The coalition's goal is to implement practical solutions to reduce the impact of underwater noise. This is crucial for protecting marine biodiversity, as many species are negatively affected by noise pollution.
Underwater noise disrupts marine species' ability to communicate, navigate, find food, and care for their young. The impact of noise pollution is particularly evident in the Arctic, where Inuit communities are experiencing the effects firsthand.
Inuit hunters, like Alexander James Ootoowak, have observed how noise from icebreakers and ships can disorient narwhals. The narwhals, which rely on sound for communication and navigation, are often deafened by the passing vessels.
In response to these concerns, measures have been taken to mitigate shipping noise pollution. The Mary River Mine, for example, has delayed the start of its shipping season to minimize the impact on narwhals.
The quiet ocean declaration aims to make such practices more common. It outlines voluntary actions for governments and the shipping industry. These include new policies to quiet ships and incorporating acoustic protection in marine protected areas.
The initiative also recognizes the importance of shipping to coastal economies. The goal is to ensure shipping is sustainable while continuing to provide access to goods.
The coalition's efforts are supported by Indigenous knowledge and scientific research. The hope is that this initiative will lead to a quieter Arctic Ocean and protect the marine life that depends on it.