Marine Animal Welfare

Cetacean Acoustic Welfare Shipping Noise

How commercial shipping noise affects the welfare of whales and dolphins, and international efforts to reduce underwater noise pollution.

Key Facts

Commercial shipping is the dominant source of low-frequency ocean noise
Cetaceans use sound for communication, navigation, and finding food
Shipping noise masks communication, disrupts foraging, and causes stress responses
Blue whales have shifted vocalisations in frequency over decades in response to shipping noise
International Maritime Organisation guidelines on noise reduction remain voluntary

Welfare Considerations

Underwater noise from shipping represents a chronic welfare stressor for cetaceans across global ocean basins. Unlike acute noise events such as military sonar, shipping noise is continuous and pervasive, affecting communication, foraging efficiency, and physiological stress across entire populations. Mandatory vessel speed reductions and routing measures offer practical welfare improvements.

What You Can Do

Support campaigns for mandatory shipping noise reduction regulations
Choose ferry and cruise operators committed to underwater noise reduction
Advocate for shipping route modifications in critical cetacean habitat areas