Nations Presented Global Underwater Noise Study
South Africa, Chile, and Georgia have urged the IMO to formally recognize shipping noise as marine pollution.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Environmental
Live Poll
Should governments formally classify underwater ship noise as a regulated form of marine pollution?
South Africa, Chile, and Georgia presented a global gap analysis on underwater ship noise to the 85th session of the International Maritime Organization. The report highlights the need to categorize noise from shipping as a formal form of marine pollution to better protect ocean life.
Why it matters
The study aims to address the harm caused by shipping noise to marine life by identifying significant regulatory and data gaps. Addressing these barriers is essential for developing international and national policies that effectively limit aquatic noise levels.
The study analyzed legal frameworks across global, regional, and national levels using questionnaires and literature reviews. It identifies a critical lack of baseline acoustic data and a shortage of specialized technical skills among participating nations.
The players
International Maritime Organization
This is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships.
GloNoise Partnership
This collaborative project involves the Global Environment Facility, UNDP, and the IMO to address the issue of underwater noise generated by shipping.
The details
Produced under the GloNoise Partnership by the Global Environment Facility, UNDP, and the IMO, the study concludes that current laws lack economic incentives for compliance. Researchers evaluated current policy instruments to determine how noise reduction can be integrated into future environmental standards.
Timeline
The findings were submitted to the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee during its 85th session in October 2026.
The Big Picture
This study shifts the trajectory of maritime environmental policy by aiming to classify noise as a pollutant comparable to historical standards like the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships. By doing so, it attempts to bridge a gap between current noise reduction guidelines and enforceable international law.
Formal recognition of underwater noise as pollution could eventually lead to new vessel design standards and operational speed restrictions for the global shipping industry. These changes may influence the future cost of maritime logistics and consumer goods transport.
The takeaway
The lack of national legislation and economic incentives currently prevents effective mitigation of underwater shipping noise. Nations are now pushing for global standardization to ensure shipping industries prioritize marine ecosystem health alongside maritime transport needs.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest research and policy initiatives in our Environmental section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Maritime Review.
Live Poll
Should governments formally classify underwater ship noise as a regulated form of marine pollution?
