Abstract

Oceans are not silent. And this statement is even more real under ice conditions. The so-called underwater noise chorus is extremely rich and seasonally changing since it is made of multiple components: the natural sound is contributing more than in any other places since ice is a major contributor with sounds of a large diversity according to the type of ice that is present. The biological sounds are also unique in ice conditions since biodiversity in such areas are usually of exceptional nature. At last, the anthropogenic sounds are increasingly contributing to the overall noise chorus, mainly linked with the changing climate conditions that enable human maritime activities to take place. These changing conditions lead to the emerging challenge of underwater noise in ice conditions, especially in the Arctic. Underwater noise is nowadays recognized as being a serious threat for marine life and increasing international regulations are developed in many countries as per the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive. The merging regulations appeal for new and innovative management and conservation solutions and tools.