Noise pollution in the North Sea on the map
When you think of underwater sounds, you might imagine bubbles and peaceful whale song. However, research by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management among others, shows that we humans also make quite a bit of noise underwater. Think of shipping movements, wind farms, and their construction. Marine life suffers from this. Through programs like Jomopans, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management has been working internationally since 2015 to map noise pollution in the North Sea. After all, sound does not stop at borders. Jomopans is now nominated for an international award.
Humans cannot hear well underwater. Therefore, it was long thought that it is quiet beneath the sea surface, but nothing could be further from the truth. Many animals in the North Sea actually communicate and navigate using sound. They also use their hearing to find food. When these natural sounds are disrupted by noise from ships or industry, they become disoriented, cannot find each other, and may starve.
In short, reducing underwater noise pollution is incredibly important. But shipping and the construction of wind farms are important as well. A good balance between all interests is therefore crucial. But how do you achieve that?
Niels Kinneging of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management is an expert in underwater sound and former project leader of Jomopans. He explains: ‘To take the right measures, you must first gather knowledge. We did not have much grasp on how much noise humans add, where exactly it comes from, and what its effect is on underwater life.’
That's why the Joint Monitoring Programme for Ambient Noise in the North Sea project (Jomopans) started in 2015. The goal of the project was to develop a comprehensive joint program for monitoring ambient noise in the North Sea. Kinneging was involved from start to finish on behalf of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management and the Directorate-General for Public Works and Water Management.
The ministry is responsible for the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive. This directive obliges member states to monitor underwater noise and take measures. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management manages the North Sea and is the competent authority for many activities. Knowledge is needed to fulfill this role properly.
Kinneging says: ‘With Jomopans, we have literally put the subject of underwater sound on the map. Together with partners from countries around the North Sea, we have developed maps that clearly display underwater noise pollution.’
‘With the insights we have gained, we engage with stakeholders and advise policymakers on possible measures in which the different interests have been weighed. Measures might include setting requirements on how much noise ships are allowed to produce in a certain area or including requirements in permits that the noise from piling must be mitigated.’
Moving forward with DEMASK
Jomopans was officially completed in 2022. In January 2024, the follow-up started: Development and Evaluation of Noise Management Strategies to Keep the North Sea Healthy (DEMASK). Kinneging is again involved as project leader. DEMASK focuses on devising different scenarios with measures to control noise pollution. DEMASK also calculates these scenarios to advise policymakers on their effects. Kinneging notes: ‘We make suggestions for measures. The policymakers have to work with them.’
‘In the DEMASK project, interaction with stakeholders is truly central. We are continuing with the knowledge and network we have built with Jomopans. But new information remains essential to realize tools. By continuing to talk with stakeholders, we also stay informed about developments in, for example, shipping and the possibilities that might offer us.’
Jomopans nominated for REGIOSTARS Awards 2024
Due to the interesting and useful results, Jomopans continues to attract attention even after its completion. For instance, Jomopans is now nominated for a prestigious award, namely a REGIOSTARS award 2024. This award is a European honor for EU-funded projects that demonstrate the effects and inclusivity of regional development.
Kinneging is pleased with the enthusiasm and attention for the subject: ‘This nomination and a possible prize are honorable and very nice for the team. I am incredibly proud of the way all partners have committed themselves and continue to do so.’
You can vote for Jomopans on the European Commission's website. Voting is possible until October 9 2024.