Noise reduction is possible

Underwater noise is generated in sectors that are important to humans and the economy

Maritime transport is the cornerstone of the Baltic Sea states foreign economy. It cannot be limited without major economic spill-over effects. The old truth that “Finland is an island” still holds. Much of our foreign trade is done by sea. Finland also has significant expertise in the shipbuilding industry. However, it is possible to build quieter vessels and modify older vessels to be quieter.

Nowadays, there is already information about the magnitude and effects of noise caused by offshore wind farms. However, offshore wind turbines produce clean energy, so their numbers will continue to increase.

Noise is also generated by underwater construction work, such as for ports, terminals, waterways, roads, and residential areas. If construction along the Baltic Sea shores and the resulting land reclamation from the sea increase, the amount of human-caused underwater noise may rise.

If noise cannot be eliminated, it can be reduced

Much can be done to improve the well-being of marine animals. According to Finland’s marine management action program, underwater noise can be limited. This can benefit not only animals but also fishing, tourism, and marine recreational use. The goal is to reduce the amount of continuous noise from the baseline levels of 2014–2016.

Sources of loud noise can be mitigated in many ways: