The Mediterranean, with its beauty and biodiversity, is also an environment threatened by marine noise pollution. The noise generated by ships, engines, sonars, and other human activities alters the underwater soundscape, potentially having a significant impact on marine wildlife. This phenomenon, known as noise pollution, has direct repercussions on species such as cetaceans, octopuses, and schooling fish.

Impact on marine wildlife

Cetaceans such as dolphins, species often seen in the waters around the Medes Islands, rely on echolocation to navigate and communicate. Intense noise can interfere with these vital functions, leading to disorientation and stress.

Marine invertebrates, such as octopuses and cuttlefish, are also vulnerable. Studies conducted by UPC have shown that noise exposure can delay egg hatching, increase larval mortality, and alter camouflage behaviors. Even schooling species like salps or saddled seabream (oblades) can disperse and lose their group cohesion when the underwater soundscape is disrupted. All of this reminds us that, although we may not see it from the surface, there is a world beneath the waves that feels—and deeply so.

The Costa Brava: a sensitive area

On the Costa Brava, including the areas surrounding Montgrí and the Medes Islands, noise pollution is a growing concern. The heavy traffic of recreational boats contributes to a disrupted acoustic environment, especially during the summer season when tourist activity peaks.

How to minimize this impact through recreational boating

Recreational boaters can adopt practices to reduce acoustic pollution:

• Reduce speed: Navigating at low speeds significantly decreases engine noise and lowers the risk of collisions with marine wildlife.
• Avoid sensitive areas: Respect protected zones and follow the regulations of designated acoustic quiet areas established by authorities.
• Maintain a safe distance: Avoid approaching groups of cetaceans or other marine animals too closely in order to prevent causing them stress.
• Use quieter technologies: Favor boats equipped with quieter engines or adopt maintenance practices that reduce noise emissions.

Listening to the Sea to Better Coexist

Marine noise pollution is an invisible yet very real threat to Mediterranean biodiversity. As responsible boaters, we have both the ability and the responsibility to protect our marine environment by adopting practices that minimize our acoustic impact. It is only through conscious and considerate navigation that we can ensure a healthier coexistence with the life beneath the waves.