UK Cetacean Strategy addresses underwater noise

A UK strategy for the conservation of whales and dolphins (cetaceans) - has been published. It acknowledges that underwater noise sits alongside climate change and bycatch is a threat impacting these species, and provides a framework for conservation action.  Of six high level recommendations, two address underwater noise. High-level recommendation 1: Raise awareness and reduce potential impacts of wildlife tourism and recreational activities on cetaceans in UK waters, acknowledges pressure from acoustic disturbance alongside physical disturbance and injury. High-level recommendation 4: Manage underwater noise at levels that do not adversely affect cetacean populations, acknowledges the potential for acoustic disturbance in all UK waters. It states underwater noise in the marine environment may adversely impact cetaceans by causing injury, physiological stress and behavioural responses, with growing pressures relating to industries like marine renewable energy, oil and gas, ports and harbours having the potential to introduce multiple acoustic stressors. The strategy was co-ordinated by the Scottish Government in partnership with the UK Government, Welsh Government, Northern Ireland Executive and  relevant statutory nature conservation bodies (SNCBs). The accompanying technical report contains a detailed assessment of potential acoustic impacts.