Shipping Noise

The issue of anthropogenic sound and its effects on marine life is one of increasing public and scientific interest. Our understanding of many relevant questions has expanded rapidly in some areas, although considerable scientific uncertainty generally remains. Sound produced as an incidental byproduct of vessel operation serves no particular function in the transportation of goods. Thus, given the potential interference with acoustic communication in marine life, an important question is whether sound output from large vessels can be realistically reduced. Of course, there are both technical and practical considerations bearing on this question.

More Information

• International Maritime Organization Correspondence Group for Guidelines to Minimize Underwater Noise from Commercial Shipping
• Arctic Marine Shipping Assessment (2009)
• International Workshop on Shipping and Marine Mammals (2008)
• NMFS 2007 Symposium
• NMFS 2004 Symposium

Updated: October 11, 2012