by InTrieste
A new campaign to monitor underwater noise in the Gulf of Trieste has been launched, utilizing state-of-the-art technology to study the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems. The initiative, led by the Regional Environmental Protection Agency of Friuli Venezia Giulia (Arpa FVG), builds on over a decade of pioneering work in acoustic climate monitoring.
The project focuses on two critical areas: the central Gulf of Trieste, where human activity such as shipping and tourism is concentrated, and the Miramare Marine Protected Area. The goal is to better understand and mitigate the effects of noise pollution on marine biodiversity.
As part of the campaign, Arpa FVG has deployed two advanced underwater recorders, the “Sono.Vault” and “Sylence.” These devices are designed for long-term data collection, featuring high precision, low energy consumption, and extensive storage capacity. Their deployment represents a significant upgrade to the agency’s monitoring capabilities.
The initiative is part of the Interreg Italy-Croatia “Undersea” project, which focuses on cross-border collaboration to study and address underwater noise pollution across the Adriatic Sea. A permanent monitoring network is being developed, covering the entire region.
“This is a vital step in understanding the effects of sound emissions on marine ecosystems,” said Anna Lutman, director of Arpa FVG during the announcement. “The data collected will provide key insights for protecting biodiversity and improving the quality of our waters.”
Underwater noise pollution, often caused by maritime transport, fishing, and tourism, poses a growing threat to marine life. Species such as dolphins and fish rely on sound for communication, navigation, and survival, making noise pollution a critical environmental issue.
The project’s findings are expected to inform sustainable policies for marine resource management and conservation. By collaborating with partners across Europe, Arpa FVG aims to contribute to broader efforts to protect the Adriatic’s delicate ecosystems.
With the introduction of this new technology, Trieste is solidifying its position as a leader in innovative environmental research and monitoring.
Interview: Fabio Scoccimarro, the Regional Councilor for Environmental Protection; Anna Lutman, director ARPA FVG
