Noise in UK waters, caused by industrial, naval and other sources, should be assessed and monitored so that effective measures to protect sea life can be introduced, researchers have said.

Sound emissions from oil rigs, seismic survey, naval exercises, construction and even ferries and pleasure cruises have increased over time. According to the Guardian, group chairman Peter Liss, Professor of Environmental Science at the University of East Anglia, said:

"The sea is a much noisier place than it was 10 years ago and there is a growing body of evidence that it could cause these animals [cetaceans and other marine life] physiological harm." Damage is thought to be caused to marine mammals' hearing and sonar location systems by loud noises and powerful sonar emissions.

The report calls for wider co-operation between relevant groups and, once clear threats to marine life have been identified, such measures as a requirement that noisy operators acquire permits from the Government before they can proceed with their activities.

The report was prepared by the Government's Inter-agency Committee on Marine Science and Technology, and will be considered for the British Government's forthcoming Marine Bill.


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