South Africa has taken decisive action to address underwater noise pollution caused by ships—an often-overlooked environmental hazard with far-reaching consequences for marine ecosystems and food security. Speaking at the UN Ocean Conference held in Nice, France, officials from South Africa outlined a new wave of regulatory, research, and collaborative initiatives aimed at mitigating the disruptive effects of ship-generated sound on ocean life.
Underwater radiated noise (URN) has become a growing concern in recent years, as scientists increasingly warn of its adverse effects on marine species. The sounds generated by commercial vessels interfere with essential behaviours in aquatic animals, including navigation, mating, feeding, and migration. In response, South Africa recently hosted a landmark regional workshop on URN in partnership with the International Maritime Organization’s GloNoise Partnership. This multilateral forum convened representatives from 21 nations, underscoring the region’s increasing commitment to marine acoustic health.
One of the country’s most significant steps has been the launch of its first Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) focused specifically on ship noise in Algoa Bay—an area home to rich marine biodiversity. The findings from this pilot study will form the basis of a national monitoring programme to develop robust data sets and inform long-term policy. Authorities confirm plans to expand these assessments to other coastal areas, building a foundational understanding of the national underwater acoustic landscape.
In tandem, South Africa’s maritime regulatory agencies have introduced draft regulations to manage the environmental risks associated with offshore bunkering—where vessels refuel at sea—a process identified as a key contributor to underwater noise pollution. These proposed rules aim to ensure that sound pollution is considered alongside other marine environmental risks and pave the way for stricter compliance mechanisms.
Financial barriers to adopting low-noise vessel technologies remain a significant challenge, particularly for regional fleet operators. In recognition of this, the South African government, with support from international agencies, is exploring dedicated financing pathways to support industry transitions towards quieter, cleaner ships. The emphasis is on inclusive innovation—helping domestic operators modernise fleets without compromising economic viability.
The urgency of these actions is underscored by real-world impacts. A marked rise in shipping traffic along South Africa’s coasts has coincided with a dramatic 70% decline in the population of African penguins. Simultaneously, vital commercial fish species like yellowfin tuna and hake have exhibited behavioural shifts, potentially linked to noise stress. These changes pose serious threats not only to biodiversity but also to food security and local fishing economies.
According to officials from the South African Maritime Safety Authority, addressing ship noise is no longer just an environmental issue but a socioeconomic necessity. As coastal communities depend heavily on marine resources for livelihood and sustenance, reducing ecological stressors like URN becomes essential for long-term resilience.
South Africa’s proactive stance has earned recognition among international delegates, many of whom view the country’s comprehensive approach as a replicable model for other developing nations facing similar marine challenges. It is also a step towards aligning national environmental policies with the International Maritime Organization’s evolving standards on ship noise and sustainability.
As the international community grapples with the complexities of protecting marine environments, South Africa’s leadership on underwater noise pollution illustrates that even highly technical, under-acknowledged problems can be tackled with clear intent, scientific collaboration, and equitable policy design.
Also Read : Chenab Bridge Surpasses Eiffel Tower as Tallest Railway Arch
