The rising tide of underwater noise
The oceans are filled with natural sounds—but also, increasingly, by human-made noise. There is probably no ocean left in the world that is not affected by noise from industry, shipping or military sonar.
Until recent years, the Arctic was one of the last refuges from such noise. But new access made possible by climate change is increasing both shipping traffic and fossil fuel exploration. The Arctic Sea may soon become a noise-filled basin like all the others, with the same unfortunate impacts on marine life and local communities.
Northern bottlenose whales: The mysterious deep divers of Jan Mayen
Regulating underwater noise during pile-driving
My community took on the oil industry—and won
New technology aims to help the oil and gas industry avoid marine animals during exploration
Two views, same news: Underwater noise is hurting our communities
Drowning in noise
Stories from other issues
More from The Circle
Leave it in the ground: Arctic resources should stay where they are
Joining forces for polar bear conservation
Arctic reality check: An uncertain future
Innovating for a better future
About The Circle magazine
Quarterly
WWF Arctic Programme publishes the magazine four times per year and each issue zeroes in on a theme and presents a range of stories.
Actions
It covers the key climate risks are for the Arctic—and what researchers and decision-makers in the eight Arctic nations are doing.
Perspectives
We aim to hear from contributors in a selection of Arctic countries—from youth to Indigenous communities to policymakers to scientists.
Themes
Stay informed about the environmental and development issues affecting wildlife, ecosystems and people in the Arctic today.