Results from underwater noise survey published.

An assessment of underwater noise in the marine environment around the UK has been published by Cefas (Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science), Marine Scotland Science and University of Exeter. Underwater noise data was obtained from subsea sound recorders located around the UK coast.

Sources of noise in the ocean include shipping, seismic exploration, and construction activity, such as port extensions or offshore wind farms. There is concern that rising levels of underwater noise pollution worldwide may have an impact on marine life by interfering with communication, causing changes in behaviour, and raising stress levels. The study will inform UK policy on underwater noise pollution, and forms the basis of the UK assessment of underwater noise under the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), which assesses the status of European seas.