11.2 Noise and Electromagnetic Field Impacts

Underwater noise and electromagnetic fields from tidal and wave energy devices can disrupt marine life. Noise pollution affects communication and behavior of marine mammals, fish, and invertebrates. EMF from subsea cables may interfere with navigation and prey detection for some species.

These environmental impacts are crucial considerations in the development of marine renewable energy projects. Understanding and mitigating these effects is essential for sustainable implementation of tidal and wave energy technologies in marine ecosystems.

Underwater Noise Impacts

Sources of Underwater Noise Pollution

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  Frontiers | Observing the Oceans Acoustically View original

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• Underwater noise pollution occurs when human activities introduce sound into the marine environment
• Acoustic disturbance is caused by various sources such as shipping, oil and gas exploration, and marine renewable energy devices
• Operational noise is generated by the regular functioning of tidal and wave energy devices (turbines, generators)
• Construction noise arises from activities like pile driving, drilling, and dredging during the installation of marine energy infrastructure

Effects on Marine Life

• Marine mammal communication relies heavily on acoustic signals for essential behaviors (foraging, mating, navigation)
• Underwater noise can mask or disrupt these acoustic signals, interfering with marine mammal communication
• Noise pollution may cause behavioral changes, stress, and disorientation in marine mammals
• Other marine life, such as fish and invertebrates, can also be affected by underwater noise
  • Noise can disrupt their behavior, cause physiological stress, and alter their distribution patterns

Electromagnetic Field Effects

Sources of Electromagnetic Fields

• Electromagnetic fields (EMF) are generated by the transmission of electricity through subsea cables
• Tidal and wave energy devices require subsea cables to transmit the generated electricity to shore
• The strength of the EMF depends on factors such as cable design, current flow, and burial depth

Potential Impacts on Marine Life

• Some marine species, particularly elasmobranchs (sharks, rays), are sensitive to electromagnetic fields
• Elasmobranchs use electromagnetic reception for navigation, prey detection, and orientation
• EMF from subsea cables may interfere with their ability to navigate and locate prey
• Fish species that use magnetic fields for migration (salmon, eels) could potentially be affected by EMF
  • EMF might disrupt their migratory patterns or cause disorientation
• The extent of EMF impacts on marine life is still being researched, and long-term effects are not fully understood