Assessment of Impulsive and Continuous Low-Frequency Noise in Irish Waters

As part of the European Union Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), member states are required to address noise pollution in the marine environment under Descriptor 11. This study aimed to provide a practical desk-based application of Descriptor 11 assessment, focusing on the main contributors of ocean noise pollution in Irish waters, seismic surveying and shipping. To highlight specific geographical areas subject to elevated levels of noise pollution, the proportion of days over a calendar year that seismic air guns were operational was calculated and the vessel density per 50-km(2) grids was determined across Ireland's exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Additionally, cetacean sighting data were used to determine the degree of spatial overlap between areas of elevated noise pollution and areas of cetacean abundance.