Can we fix our ocean noise problem?
Researchers are uncovering just how large the impact of man-made noise is on ocean life. But there are some surprisingly simple ways we could tackle this overlooked pollution problem.
In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on 11 September 2001, a great lull fell over North America, above and below the water.
Understandably, fewer people were traveling by air. But ship traffic was also significantly reduced, even as far north as the Bay of Fundy in Canada. As a result, underwater noise in the bay dropped by an incredible six decibels to below 150 Hz – equivalent to a soft rain or cat's purr.
The area is frequented by North Atlantic right whales, so scientists at Duke University decided to see if the quieter waters had any impact on the giant mammals. Sure enough, a...
