LNG carrier underwater noise in Baffin Bay

Abstract

Large powerful liquid natural gas carriers may soon ply Arctic waters year round. Concern has been expressed over the impact the resulting noise will have on Arctic marine life. This study includes estimates of LNG carrier-radiated noise source levels and resulting sound levels at a given distance from the ship for a number of operating conditions. Measurements of sound propagation and ambient noise conditions in Baffin Bay are used to estimate the ship noise levels in relation to the summertime noise background.