Protecting the Whales against Acoustic Pollution under the International Marine Environmental Law

Underwater noise pollution is considered a threat to marine biodiversity and marine mammals, such as whale species. An increasing amount of disturbing noise in the marine environment can have major and even fatal impacts on the cetaceans. Studies have shown that decreased species diversity in whales and dolphins is directly related to an increase in underwater noise. The present article seeks to find the legal basis in international marine environmental law to protect whales against the adverse impact of acoustic pollution. Therefore, the article’s main question is to what extent the normative foundations and organizational measures under international environmental law play a role in protecting whales against noise pollution. Studies show that main international environmental or marine instruments contain no explicit provisions about acoustic pollution. However, some have the necessary framework to address the issue and can be applied through interpretation. In addition, several international organizations have acted toward protecting the population of whales against noise pollution.