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Marine seismic surveys and ocean noise: time for coordinated and prudent planning
Author(s) -
Nowacek Douglas P,
Clark Christopher W,
Mann David,
Miller Patrick JO,
Rosenbaum Howard C,
Golden Jay S,
Jasny Michael,
Kraska James,
Southall Brandon L
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
frontiers in ecology and the environment
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.918
H-Index - 164
eISSN - 1540-9309
pISSN - 1540-9295
DOI - 10.1890/130286
Subject(s) - environmental science , sound (geography) , environmental resource management , precautionary principle , noise pollution , marine protected area , noise (video) , environmental planning , oceanography , geology , habitat , computer science , ecology , artificial intelligence , image (mathematics) , noise reduction , biology
Marine seismic surveys use intense (eg ≥ 230 decibel [dB] root mean square [RMS]) sound impulses to explore the ocean bottom for hydrocarbon deposits, conduct geophysical research, and establish resource claims under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The expansion of seismic surveys necessitates greater regional and international dialogue, partnerships, and planning to manage potential environmental risks. Data indicate several reasons for concern about the negative impacts of anthropogenic noise on numerous marine species, including habitat displacement, disruption of biologically important behaviors, masking of communication signals, chronic stress, and potential auditory damage. The sound impulses from seismic surveys – spanning temporal and spatial scales broader than those typically considered in environmental assessments – may have acute, cumulative, and chronic effects on marine organisms. Given the international and transboundary nature of noise from marine seismic surveys, we suggest the creation of an international regulatory instrument, potentially an annex to the existing International Convention on the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, to address the issue.