Answer
A –
MEPC 81- Guidelines for collecting data regarding underwater noise and crew training.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has taken significant steps to address underwater noise from ships and minimize its impact on the marine environment. Here’s what they’re doing:
1.Action Plan to Reduce Underwater Radiated Noise (URN):
The Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC) has agreed on an Action Plan to prevent and reduce underwater radiated noise from ships.
The goal is to minimize adverse effects on marine wildlife and indigenous communities.
The Action Plan includes several initiatives:
Experience-Building Phase (EBP): Member States and international organizations share lessons learned and best practices in implementing the Revised Guidelines.
Public Awareness and Education: Enhancing awareness and training for seafarers.
Data Collection and Information Sharing Tools:
Developing tools to collect data and share information.
Research: Encouraging research on underwater noise and its environmental impacts.
o The Action Plan aligns with other IMO initiatives, including the upcoming GloNOise Partnership project with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to assist developing countries in mitigating underwater noise from shipping.
2.NGOs’ Recommendations:
o NGOs urge the IMO to adopt mandatory measures, such as:
Noise Management Plans: Requiring ships to develop and implement plans.
Quantitative Noise Targets: Phasing in targets to achieve overall noise reduction over time. 3.Current Status:
o Underwater noise and its impact on the marine environment are not yet covered by IMO regulations, but these recent actions demonstrate progress in addressing this Critical issue.