A new initiative is set to commence this year, aiming to enhance the understanding and mitigation of underwater noise impacts in the Canadian Arctic. This region hosts abundant wildlife, including narwhal, beluga, and other marine mammals that rely on sound for essential behaviors such as hunting, communication, and navigation. With the anticipated increase in vessel traffic due to diminishing ice coverage, assessing and addressing the effects of underwater noise on these species and the Inuit communities that depend on them has become imperative.
The program's primary objectives include measuring underwater noise levels, developing predictive noise maps, and refining mitigation strategies for Arctic communities and maritime operators. To achieve these goals, collaboration between expedition cruise operators and researchers will focus on assessing noise emissions from individual vessels under various operational conditions. This data will facilitate a comprehensive understanding of potential noise impacts on Arctic marine species.
The project also seeks to strengthen partnerships among Inuit resource managers, research institutions, and the marine transportation sector. Both in-person and virtual meetings are planned to ensure that all program components are co-developed and that findings are disseminated in accessible and actionable formats tailored to stakeholders' needs.
Current collaborators in this endeavor include Oceans North, the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), and the University of California San Diego (UCSD). Joshua Jones, an oceanographer at UCSD involved in the research, indicated that the project focuses on understanding how underwater noise affects marine wildlife, particularly in the Eastern Canadian Arctic.
AECO's role encompasses evaluating noise-reduction operational measures, formulating mitigation strategies, and sharing insights with the industry. Melissa Nacke, AECO’s Head of Operations, noted that the project enables a better comprehension of underwater noise impacts in the Arctic and the development of effective mitigation measures with their members, supporting their ongoing commitment to sustainable cruise tourism.
Inuit resource managers at local and regional levels will play a crucial role in this project. Amanda Joynt, Senior Policy Advisor at Oceans North, emphasized that as Arctic marine traffic increases, the project will aid in implementing proper marine spatial planning, ensuring that communities are central to these efforts.
Supported by CA$450,000+ in funding from Fisheries and Oceans Canada through the Oceans Management Contribution Program, the project is slated to continue through March 2026.