[Greens-Media] Noise pollution an increasing threat for whales

[Redman, Chris (Sen R. Siewert)]

1 June 2013

Noise pollution an increasing threat for whales


The Australian Greens say a new report released today by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IWAF) shows the increasing impact that human activity is having on whales and the need for better marine protection.

The IWAF have used National Whale Day to release their report 'Breaking the Silence - How our noise pollution is harming whales'.

"The IWAF report shows us that WA's waters are an increasingly hostile place for whales," Senator Rachel Siewert, Australian Greens marine spokesperson said today.

"Whales are being affected as a result of the impacts of shipping, oil and gas exploration, construction and naval exercises.

"WA is an important location for whale migration, calving and feeding, and yet nowhere is safe. IWAF identifies threats to whales in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Ningaloo, Perth Canyon, Bremer Basin and Albany Canyon. 

"We cannot keep putting whales in danger - be it through noise pollution, oil and gas exploration off the Abrolhos or proposals to develop areas like James Price Point.

"By continuing to impact on the marine environment in this way, we are causing untold harm to whales and marine ecosystems.

"The Government needs to address the impacts of noise pollution and factor these into their decision making processes when it comes to approving any sort of development, resources exploration or activity in important whale habitats.

"Improving marine protection, to keep oil and gas exploration away from areas like Ningaloo, the Abrolhos and the Kimberley coast is also essential. 

"We cannot prioritise short term development ahead of the long term protection of important species and marine environments," Senator Siewert concluded.