Session: 14-01-01: Small Maritime Nations

Paper Number: 104358

104358 - Assessing Underwater Noise Impact for Marine Projects 

A substantial number of marine infrastructural projects result in increased environmental impact on marine fauna during the construction and operational stages of projects. A significant part of this impact is due to excessive noise. The absence of standard methods of underwater noise assessment and prediction increase the risk of unacceptable change to the marine environment as a result of offshore anthropogenic activities. Generally, the auditory systems of marine species are different from human, however it is typically attempted to extend the same approaches as used for human settings to marine eco systems. The justification of such approaches are not provided, however it is well understood from a practicability perspective.

Construction operations such as pile driving and dredging may result in significant noise increase and irreversible impact on marine species.    This paper reviews relevant regulatory documents and summarises considerations that are typically used to setting relevant underwater criteria for construction and operational noise. It also suggests approaches to groups of acoustic criteria that may be used to control and minimise underwater noise impact.

General methods of modelling underwater noise impact are reviewed as a part of planning for marine projects and identifying the need for noise mitigation measurements and preparation of relevant construction and operation plans.  These approaches may be used to identify relevant noise criteria and submit environmental effect statements to attain regulatory approvals.  

Presenting Author: Valeri V. Lenchine GHD Pty Ltd

Presenting Author Biography: Dr Valeri (Val) Lenchine is the Technical Director- Noise and Vibration in GHD’s Melbourne office. He has 30 years’ experience in acoustic and vibration research and assessment and a Ph.D., majoring in Acoustics & Vibration. He has assessed noise impact from wind farms and other renewable energy plants, industries, infrastructure and marine projects. Valeri managed multiple projects relevant to development of methodologies and regulatory documents applicable to wind farms, railways, buildings and industries. Results of the projects have been incorporated into planning documents and policies. Prediction of underwater noise from operation and construction of offshore and onshore infrastructure, mining, power generation and transport projects using variety of modelling tools also forms a part of his project portfolio. Valeri has recognition on national and international level which is reflected in scientific publications and patents.

Authors:

Valeri V. Lenchine GHD Pty Ltd