On 10 September 2019, the Jens-Peter und Betsy Schl\u00fcter Foundation for Shipping and Environmental Protection organized an international symposium on the topic of underwater noise together with the World Maritime University (WMU), Malm\u00f6 and with support from the International Maritime Organization (IMO).<\/p>\n
Twelve high-calibre speakers from Europe and Canada informed the attending experts and interested parties from business, associations, science, administration and international organizations on the current state of knowledge surrounding the topic and entered into discussion with the participants on possible solutions for the problems arising in this connection.<\/p>\n
One clear fact is that underwater noise represents a hazard for the marine environment that should not be underestimated. Regardless of any existing scientific uncertainty concerning individual issues, applying the precautionary principle means that measures of reduction are urgently required. Awareness of the problems of anthropogenic underwater noise now prevails at the international level. The United Nations has taken up this topic as part of sustainability discussions, as have the IMO and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. It is now also on the agenda in the EU and the regional marine environmental commissions.<\/p>\n