The rising tide of global trade is accompanied by an increase in underwater noise produced by commercial shipping. From the Arctic to the Great Barrier Reef, scientists have observed that this persistent mechanical sound can confuse whales, interrupt migration paths, and obscure vital acoustic signals essential for many marine creatures. In response to this growing concern, the United Nations International Maritime Organization (IMO) is prioritizing efforts to mitigate underwater noise. Arsenio Dominguez, the IMO Secretary-General, acknowledges that underwater radiated noise poses a significant threat, despite the shipping industry’s role as a primary ocean user.
At the third UN Ocean Conference in Nice, he emphasized the importance of addressing this emerging issue seriously. Over 80% of global goods are shipped by sea, producing low-frequency sounds from propellers, hull vibrations, and engines that travel great distances underwater. Unlike visible pollution, noise leaves no physical trace, yet its consequences remain severe. To tackle this, the IMO has introduced new guidelines to minimize ship noise and launched an Underwater Radiated Noise (URN) Action Plan.
Currently, a three-year “experience building phase” allows countries to share insights and best practices related to these guidelines. The IMO’s voluntary guidelines, first adopted in 2014 and updated in 2023, offer technical recommendations for improving ship design and operation. Changes including hull modifications, propeller optimization, and speed reduction can significantly lessen noise, particularly in sensitive marine areas like the Galápagos Islands and Tubbataha Reefs. Moreover, at UNOC3, the IMO is highlighting the importance of advanced technologies in reducing underwater noise.
Enhancing hull cleaning methods and optimizing ship speeds can play a vital role in lessening noise pollution. The IMO has also launched the GloNoise Partnership, which collaborates with the UN Development Programme to minimize the acoustic footprint of shipping in various pilot countries. Dominguez emphasizes the urgency of these initiatives, asserting the necessity to act swiftly for the protection of our oceans. The stakes extend beyond biodiversity and highlight the need for the shipping industry to improve its efficiency while reducing underwater noise.
As discussions progress, he calls for tangible actions to meet the commitments made, stating, “We are not against this; we are on board.”