The new LOWNOISER project aims to address the issue of underwater noise pollution caused by maritime traffic. This pollution significantly impacts marine ecosystems by disrupting vital behaviors of aquatic species, such as communication and reproduction, reports Maritime Cleantech.
Growing Challenge
Underwater radiated noise from ships is a major contributor to marine noise pollution, impacting the survival of numerous marine species, including whales, fish, and invertebrates.
The European Commission’s Marine Strategy Framework Directive emphasizes the need to protect 80% of habitat sizes for target species from biologically harmful noise levels.
While previous research has demonstrated the detrimental effects of ship noise on various marine species, effective and practical solutions for mitigating this issue are still lacking.
The LOWNOISER consortium aims to address this challenge by developing and implementing advanced noise-mitigation strategies and environmentally friendly technologies.
Ada Jakobsen, CEO of Maritime CleanTech, expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its significance in safeguarding marine ecosystems for future generations by promoting sustainable and long-term solutions to underwater noise pollution.
Innovative Technologies
The LOWNOISER project aims to develop and implement practical and durable methods to reduce underwater noise from ships, focusing on solutions applicable to both new ship designs and retrofitted vessels.
Key innovative solutions under investigation include:
- Air Lubrication Systems (ALS): These systems create a layer of air bubbles beneath the ship, reducing drag and noise while simultaneously improving fuel efficiency.
- Low-Noise Bevel Gears and Engine Mounts: These components are designed to minimize vibrations and structural noise generated by engines and propellers.
- Onboard Monitoring Systems: These systems enable real-time tracking and adjustment of ship noise emissions.
- Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS): This innovative technology utilizes fiber-optic cables to monitor underwater noise in maritime areas without disturbing the marine environment.
By implementing these solutions, the LOWNOISER project strives to contribute significantly to a quieter and healthier ocean environment.
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Source: Maritime Cleantech
