Noise pollution in polar oceans

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2024-08-14 09:01

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Underwater soundscapes are being overwhelmed by climate change and human activities, even in the poles. A study of ambient noise levels and diversity in polar seas has shown how sea ice loss and human noises already affect northern waters, with the Arctic’s ice-free Fram Strait dominated year-round by ships, airguns, and persistent wind. By contrast, the Antarctic Weddell Sea currently retains a rich soundscape with seasonal changes in whale and seal choruses, and lower wind effects in winter thanks to sea ice cover. However, researchers warn that with climate change and lack of regulation on human activities, both Arctic and Antarctic waters could soon experience such changes.