Europeans back action to quiet our ocean and protect marine life

When respondents learned how noise from ships disrupts the ability of marine animals to communicate, feed, and navigate, concern rose sharply. Nearly 9 in 10 people (89%) said the problem should be addressed urgently. This tells us something powerful: when people understand the issue, they care—and they want solutions. 

Europeans are ready for change 

The survey also shows that concern quickly translates into support for action. A strong majority—84%—support reducing ship speeds to protect marine life. Even more telling, 78% believe this should be enforced through regulation, rather than left to voluntary commitments. 

People are also willing to play their part. Nearly 7 in 10 respondents (69%) said they would accept slightly longer delivery times for goods and parcels if it meant reducing underwater noise pollution. This is a clear signal to decision-makers: the public is ready for meaningful, practical solutions. 

Slowing ships, saving lives 

One of the most effective ways to reduce underwater noise already exists. At IFAW, we call it Blue Speeds, which roughly translates to a modest 10% speed reduction across the global shipping fleet.. 

This simple change can deliver immediate and measurable benefits. Implementing Blue Speeds worldwide could reduce underwater noise by up to 40%, helping restore the acoustic environment that marine animals depend on. It could also cut the risk of deadly collisions with large whales by half, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions from global shipping by an estimated 13%. In other words, slowing ships is not just good for whales—it is a practical solution for climate, biodiversity, and safer seas. 

A critical moment for Europe’s seas 

These findings come at a pivotal time. The European Union is currently reviewing its Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), a key piece of legislation designed to achieve “good environmental status” for Europe’s seas. That goal was meant to be reached by 2020, but it was not.  

Among the areas where progress has been most limited is the reduction of underwater noise pollution, around half of which is generated by maritime transport. Without stronger action, this invisible threat will continue to grow. 

But the path forward is clear. Europeans support it, the science supports it, and the solution is within reach. 

Turning public support into policy 

IFAW is calling on EU institutions and national governments to seize this moment. By integrating mandatory ship speed reductions in European waters into a strengthened MSFD, Europe can take an immediate and decisive step for a quieter, healthier ocean. 

This is an opportunity to align policy with public will—and to deliver tangible benefits for marine life. 

A quieter ocean is possible 

Across Europe, people are showing that they care deeply about the future of our ocean. They are willing to learn, to adapt, and to support solutions that protect marine life. 

Together, we can turn down the volume on underwater noise and give whales, dolphins, and other species the space they need to survive and thrive. A quieter ocean is not a distant ambition. It is a solution within our grasp—if we choose to act. 

This work is generously supported by KRESK 4 OCEANS. 

Survey conducted by Ipsos BVA for IFAW between 11 and 26 February 2026 across France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Sweden, with representative samples of 1,000 respondents aged 18 and over in each country.