Soundproofing the oceans: International regulation of underwater noise from shipping activity in the Arctic

Abstract

Due to climate change and the reduction of sea ice in the Arctic, we are witnessing increasing levels of shipping activity in this region. Unfortunately, this development also entails damaging consequences; one of them being anthropogenic underwater noise. Noise pollution may have adverse effects on the marine environment of the Arctic, particularly marine mammals who rely on sound for essential biological functions such as navigation, communication, and mating. Currently, there is no legally binding framework specifically regulating underwater noise, indicating a potential need for new legal instruments to help mitigate the issue. This thesis critically assesses the current international regulation governing underwater noise from shipping activity in the Arctic, with a focus on determining its adequacy. It also proposes and explores various approaches to remedy the shortcomings of the current international regulation.