Marine seismic surveys and ocean noise : time for coordinated and prudent planning
Abstract
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.
Citation
Nowacek , D P , Clark , C W , Mann , D , Miller , P J O , Rosenbaum , H C , Golden , J S , Jasny , M , Kraska , J & Southall , B L 2015 , ' Marine seismic surveys and ocean noise : time for coordinated and prudent planning ' , Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment , vol. 13 , no. 7 , pp. 378-386 . https://doi.org/10.1890/130286
Publication
Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment
Status
Peer reviewed
ISSN
1540-9295Type
Journal item
Rights
© The Ecological Society of America. This work is made available online in accordance with the publisher’s policies. This is the final published version of the work, which was originally published at https://dx.doi.org/10.1890/130286
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