Quieting a Noisy Ocean: Policy Guidance for Effective Regulation of Underwater Ocean Sound

Abstract

Anthropogenic ocean noise poses a serious threat to aquatic ecosystems, since marine species rely on their acoustic senses for many of their most essential biologic functions. However, although the potential harms of ocean noise are now well-known, quieting the oceans has proven to be a major challenge. In the United States, federal agencies and private actors operating in ocean environments rely on an outdated and patchy set of rules which, in practice, do little to actually reduce noise and protect animals. This paper offers guidance for improving the U.S. policy approach by examining the weaknesses of the current system and offering suggestions for possible paths forward. As a thought experiment, the paper concludes with a more detailed examination of a theoretical noise abatement licensing scheme.