- A study by the University of Haifa and the University of Zagreb reveals that small vessels can emit significant underwater noise pollution.
- Researchers analyzed over 1,200 vessels in the Adriatic Sea, creating the largest database of its kind.
- Noise emissions from small vessels impact marine life, especially species reliant on sound for communication.
- Unlike large commercial ships, small vessels are not subject to current noise regulations.
Researchers compiled a comprehensive database of small vessels, categorizing them by type, size, and speed using video and acoustic recordings. An optical camera and an acoustic recorder were deployed to match vessel types with their underwater noise emissions, according to Reuters.
Impact on Marine Life
Prof. Roee Diamant of the University of Haifa stated that small vessels, under certain conditions, generate underwater noise pollution that disrupts marine animals, including dolphins, whales, fish, and invertebrates.
Advanced Machine Learning for Identification
A custom machine learning system enabled researchers to identify vessels and estimate their characteristics. The acoustic recorder, positioned 30 meters deep in a channel, captured noise data for analysis.
Lack of Regulations for Small Vessels
While the IMO and some nations enforce regulations for large ship noise emissions, small vessels remain unregulated. Mark Shipton, a doctoral researcher at the University of Haifa, emphasized that noise from small boats may have a greater impact as they operate in coastal areas where marine life is most concentrated.
IMO Guidelines for Large Ships
The IMO’s revised guidelines for reducing underwater noise from shipping took effect on October 1, 2023. These guidelines apply to ship designers, builders, owners, and other industry stakeholders but do not address small vessels.
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Source: Reuters
