Action plan to reduce underwater noise

In 2025, OSPAR is adopted a dedicated Regional Action Plan to reduce anthropogenic underwater noise to levels that do not adversely affect the marine environment. The action plan will be implemented from 2025 to 2035 and bring together the best from the Contracting Partie’s scientific and policy communities. Targeting the most important sources of underwater noise, 8 prioritised actions will address overall levels of noise pollution as well as specific sources of this pollution by developing harmonised targets, standards and approaches towards the reduction of anthropogenic noise. The actions will focus on targets and thresholds, spatial planning, commercial shipping, geophysical surveys, constructions and operation of marine infrastructure, UXO disposal, other underwater noise sources and outreach and engagement OSPAR will actively engage with relevant stakeholders and communities to support the implementation of its ambitious action plan.

OSPAR Regional Action Plan on underwater noise (RAP-Noise), OSPAR Agreement 2025-15e

BRIEFING NOTE: A new collective action plan to reduce underwater noise