Noise-dampening tech reduces impact of shipping on marine ecosystems

New noise-dampening technologies could make ships less disruptive to marine life by reducing underwater noise pollution. Shipping noise, largely from propeller cavitation and machinery vibrations, disrupts marine species that rely on acoustic signals. Innovations include flexible propellers, bubble screens, and acoustic metamaterials like “acoustic black holes” to trap sound. These solutions could cut noise by up to 22 decibels and improve fuel efficiency. However, widespread adoption faces challenges due to high retrofitting costs and limited funding. Incentives like port discounts and emissions reduction targets may drive uptake, aligning quieter ships with sustainability goals under the International Maritime Organization's 2040 targets. (The Economist)