The DEMASK project is closely involved in the activities of the technical working group on noise (TG Noise). This group operates under the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive. The project is also engaged with the OSPAR Intersessional Corresponding Group on Noise (ICG Noise). OSPAR is a regional sea convention and is named after the Oslo and Paris Conventions. It unites 15 governments and the EU to protect the North-East Atlantic. TG Noise focuses on assessing and managing underwater noise to achieve good environmental status for European seas, while ICG Noise develops strategies to monitor and reduce noise pollution in the North-East Atlantic. Both groups bring together experts and policymakers to create strategies for reducing the impact of human-made noise on marine ecosystems.
Key outcomes from OSPAR ICG Noise meeting
On 22 and 23 January 2025, the OSPAR ICG Noise met in Odense, Denmark, for the yearly meeting. The DEMASK project was presented at this meeting by Niels Kinneging, also one of the con-convenors of ICG Noise. The main outcome of the meeting was the finalization of the Regional Action Plan on noise. This plan defines eight main actions and several sub-actions to be completed over the next ten years. It is intended to guide national governments, the European Union, and other stakeholders. The goal is to help them address the issue of underwater noise.
The role of DEMASK in the Regional Action Plan on noise
It was acknowledged that the ideas of the DEMASK project already help in implementing the Regional Action Plan. The project’s developments and recommendations play a key role in shaping policy decisions on managing underwater noise.
Looking ahead: OSPAR Ministerial Conference in June 2025
The Regional Action Plan on noise will be presented at the OSPAR Ministerial Conference in Vigo, Spain, on June 26, 2025. This event provides an opportunity to renew commitments to the OSPAR Commission's important work, review progress under the North-East Atlantic Environmental Strategy (NEAES), discuss new actions, and agree on priorities for the next five years. The presentation of the action plan will be a key step toward advancing international cooperation and ensuring the implementation of noise reduction strategies across European waters.
To stay up to date, follow us on LinkedIn or subscribe to our newsletter