Last September, the 8th edition of the Effects of Sound in the Ocean on Marine Mammals (ESOMM) took place in The Hague/Scheveningen. At this conference, which aims to bridge the gap between science and policy on the impact of ocean sound on marine mammals, Niels Kinneging presented the DEMASK project. The project was well received for its innovative approach to policy development on underwater noise.
About ESOMM
The ESOMM meeting serves as a platform for sharing recent scientific findings and challenges related to the impact of ocean sound on marine mammals, while also addressing policy and regulatory needs. By bringing together researchers, policymakers, and regulatory experts, the event aims to foster and strengthen multi-stakeholder collaboration in developing policy and regulation.
Originally launched as a NATO meeting, ESOMM initially focused on the environmental impacts of sonar sound. However, over the years, the scope has expanded to include other impulsive sound sources. ESOMM encourages exchange of knowledge between different communities and industries on these other sound sources, such as the oil & gas and the offshore wind industry.
DEMASK project
During ESOMM 2024, experts in underwater sound and marine mammals from science, government, and industry were invited to present their research and projects. The DEMASK project was also highlighted, with project manager Niels Kinneging emphasizing its added value to the main theme. We are pleased that the project was well received for its innovative approach to developing policies on underwater noise.