The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), spoke about noise pollution or underwater radiated noise (URN).
Mbalenhle Golding, Acting CEO of SAMSA said at the 3rd UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3), co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, that URN is critical yet often overlooked, but it is a threat to marine ecosystems.
Golding reaffirmed South Africa’s support for the IMO GloNoise Partnership Project and showcased the country’s proactive efforts, including expanded Environmental Assessments (EIA) research.
It also emerged that SA is investing in real-time monitoring capabilities across its coastal and marine environments.
France, Belgium, Canada, and the European Union have called for binding international frameworks and science-based policies to mitigate URN.
Some experts at the conference, claim commercial shipping is the primary contributor to URN, posing serious risks to marine biodiversity, especially to whales, dolphins, and fish.
Golding said South Africa’s commitment remains resolute in its commitment to advancing ocean health, aligning with SDG 14: Life Below Water.
“Through multilateral cooperation, technological innovation, and inclusive policymaking, the nation continues to lead efforts in the Global South to create quieter, more resilient oceans.”
The United Nations said in a statement 2 days ago, that a surge in global trade, results in underwater noise generated.
Arsenio Dominguez, UN International Maritime Organization, said “we know the negative impact that shipping has at the bottom of the ocean, even though we’re also the main users.”
More than 80% of global foods are transported by sea.
Dominguez said new technologies are important to reduce the level of noise pollution at sea, along with speed optimisation.
Picture: Supplied