Risk-oriented approach as a research method for the effect of man-made underwater noise upon marine ecosystems

• Published in: Transactions of the Krylov State Research Centre
• Main Author: Malyarenko N.L.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English; Russian
• Published: Krylov State Research Centre 2022
• Subjects: man-made underwater noise; marine ecosystems; ecosystem management; environmental risk; risk-oriented approach; Naval architecture. Shipbuilding. Marine engineering; VM1-989; Arctic
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.24937/2542-2324-2022-4-402-126-140; https://doaj.org/article/4612a66a742f4bf5ad0a183c7e4efad5

Object and purpose of research. This paper discusses the effect of man-made underwater noise upon marine ecosystems. The purpose was to investigate the international practice of applying the risk-oriented approach to determination of environmental impact for man-made underwater noise in terms of marine ecosystems, as well as to discuss the introduction of risk management tools and conceptual models of ecosystem-based management of man-made underwater noise, including the Arctic areas. Subject matter and methods. This paper is based upon the methodical materials developed by KSRC, international risk management standards, as well as Russian and foreign publications in this field. The study relies on system analysis methods. Main results. The study analysed the results of international investigations regarding the assessment of man-made underwater noise effect upon marine ecosystems using the methodology of environmental risk management. It also discussed conceptual approaches to the assessment of marine noise pollution. As a case study, this paper discussed a regional environmental risk assessment in terms of shipping noise effect upon whales. The study concludes that risk-based and ecosystem-oriented approaches are possible and practicable to apply in man-made underwater noise management so as to preserve biodiversity and environmental status of Russian seas. Conclusion. International projects and programs rely on risk-based assessments in their approaches to the investigation of man-made underwater noise effect upon marine ecosystems. Russia needs its own scientific basis for man-made underwater noise management based on the methodology and practice of risk-oriented approach.