Underwater Sound and Marine Mammals
Underwater sound levels related to human activity are rising worldwide. Growing shipping traffic, seismic surveys for oil and gas exploration and the installation of offshore wind farms all contribute to this increase. And that brings challenges. Marine life depends on sound, and our activities can be harmful. WaterProof specialises in underwater sound; providing insight to our clients and help them minimise the impact of their activities on marine life.
Noise monitoring
Work at sea is subject to rules designed to keep the effects of underwater sound to a minimum. This applies to dredging projects, piling for the foundations of wind turbines and platforms, and seismic surveys, among others. WaterProof specialises in carrying out the measurements needed to characterise the underwater sound produced by these activities, and in advising on how to comply with local regulations.
Monitoring and research
What is the sound level in a given area, how does it change over the years, and what does that mean for local marine fauna? Through long-term measurements we map the underwater soundscape and gain insight into the occurrence and behaviour of marine mammals. In our research projects we work closely together with government bodies and research institutes, contributing to a better understanding of underwater sound and its effects on marine life.
Acoustic modelling
We use numerical models to calculate sound levels and the potential impact on marine fauna. Our in-house Tritonic model suite makes it possible to combine a suitable sound propagation model with a source model for, for example, piling, seismic surveys or shipping. The results of these calculations are used to determine appropriate mitigation measures and are frequently delivered as part of environmental impact assessments.
MMO and PAM
When work is expected to generate high underwater sound levels, visual observations and acoustic measurements may be required to detect marine mammals in the vicinity. WaterProof supports contractors with certified personnel who carry out MMO (Marine Mammal Observer) and PAM (Passive Acoustic Monitoring) duties. WaterProof can also supply Acoustic Deterrent Devices (ADDs) to keep various types of fauna at a safe distance.
Electromagnetic Fields
As more offshore wind farms are built, the number of power cables buried in the seabed continues to grow. These cables generate electromagnetic fields that may have negative effects on marine life. WaterProof measures and models the strength of these fields, both offshore and at the landfall location, and advises clients on limiting the effects on marine life in the North Sea.
View our Underwater Sound and Marine Mammals projects
Impact of EMF and Underwater Sound on Harbour Porpoises
Export cables are used to connect offshore wind farms to onshore substations, from where the electricity is fed into the national power grid. Electromagnetic fields (EMF) are generated around buried export cables as a result of the electrical current flowing through them. These EMF may potentially affect marine life. The magnitude of these fields and their potential impact are still largely unknown. We therefore work with several partners on different measurement and research projects to better understand and assess these effects. Research into the potential relationship between EMF and harbour porpoise presence within the Borssele offshore wind farm is one example.
Effects of Electromagnetic Fields on Harbour Porpoises
The installed export cables that connect offshore wind farms to the mainland generate electromagnetic fields (EMF) due to the amount of electricity flowing through the cables. These EMF may potentially affect marine life in the immediate vicinity of the cables. To determine and better understand the potential effects of EMF on the acoustic activity of harbour porpoises, we work together with Wageningen Marine Research (WMR) and Witteveen+Bos on various measurement campaigns and analysis studies.
LIFE MareNatura
The LIFE MareNatura project is the largest marine biodiversity project ever undertaken in Greece. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the project focuses on the conservation of nine endangered species of marine mammals, sea turtles and seabirds. By mapping biodiversity hotspots in the Ionian, South Adriatic and Aegean Seas, the project aims to extend the Natura 2000 network and strengthen marine nature management in line with the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030.
