As the shipping industry continues to expand, so does the underwater noise produced by commercial vessels. This constant mechanical hum has been observed by scientists around the world, from the Arctic to the Great Barrier Reef, and has been found to have negative effects on marine life such as disorienting whales, disrupting migration routes, and interfering with acoustic communication.
In response to this growing concern, the United Nations agency responsible for regulating international shipping, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), has made reducing underwater noise a top priority. Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez recognizes the issue as a critical but emerging concern, stating, “We know the negative impact that shipping has at the bottom of the ocean, even though we’re also the main users. That’s why we’re taking this very seriously.”
With over 80% of global goods being transported by sea, the noise generated by propellers, hull vibrations, and engines can travel vast distances underwater. Unlike other forms of pollution, noise pollution cannot be seen, but its effects are just as significant.
To address this issue, the IMO has released new guidelines for reducing ship noise and has launched an Underwater Radiated Noise (URN) Action Plan. This three-year plan includes a “learning phase” where countries can share their experiences and help develop best practices for implementing the guidelines.
According to Mr. Dominguez, these voluntary guidelines, first adopted in 2014 and updated in 2023, provide technical recommendations for shipbuilders and operators, such as hull design, propeller optimization, and speed reduction, which can significantly reduce noise pollution, especially in sensitive areas like the Galápagos Islands and the Tubbataha Reefs.
The issue of shipborne noise pollution is also being addressed at the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3), where the IMO is using the platform to raise awareness of their updated guidelines. Mr. Dominguez emphasizes the importance of utilizing new technologies to reduce noise, stating, “By enhancing the cleaning of ship hulls and introducing new technologies, we can start to reduce the negative effects of underwater noise. Another effective measure is speed optimization.”
In collaboration with the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the IMO has launched the GloNoise Partnership, which aims to reduce the acoustic footprint of shipping in pilot countries such as Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, India, South Africa, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Mr. Dominguez stresses the importance of protecting the ocean, not just for its biodiversity, but also for the essential role it plays in global trade and civilization. He urges the IMO to take action and fulfill their commitments, stating, “The big message that I will have from everyone participating in [UNOC3] is let’s focus on tangible results. It’s time to start acting on those commitments and see what has been done and what else needs to be done.”
He concludes, “We are not against this. We are on board.”