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Anthropogenic underwater noise levels have generally increased as industrial activities in the ocean have become more prevalent. Because of the central nature of sound in the lives of many marine animals, and the known and potential adverse impacts of noise, it is also gaining increased international recognition as an important global conservation issue. Here, a current compilation and synthesis of official documents, reports, and strategic plans from various intergovernmental, governmental, and international organizations, and noise-related projects and programs, demonstrate increasing efforts to understand anthropogenic underwater noise, and the mitigation and management measures that are being considered to reduce noise. While some entities aim to better understand and quantify underwater noise and its impacts, others have recommended explicit mitigation measures including spatio-temporal approaches to managing noise sources, and vessel quieting technologies. New approaches also include the development of certification or voluntary noise-reduction programs and agreements. We highlight four considerations that will better link the potential impacts of noise with corresponding mitigation and noise reducing efforts: 1) collaboration to address the transboundary and cumulative nature of underwater noise; 2) differing countries' implementation capabilities for addressing noise; 3) time and intensity tradeoffs (e.g., louder noise for a shorter time period versus quieter but for longer); and 4) variable noise impacts depending on specific life history stages and life functions. Our review affirms the international consensus that anthropogenic underwater noise is a currently pervasive yet relatively transient form of pollution, the effects of which can be significantly reduced through effective mitigation and regulatory action. • Anthropogenic underwater noise is transboundary and can adversely impact ocean life. • This internationally recognized issue calls for partnership, mitigation and policy. • Recommend use of spatio-temporal mitigation, quieting technology and best practices. • Need for urgent research and action to implement effective noise reduction measures. • We suggest key areas for future action to better address noise impacts in the ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We measured spatial and temporal patterns of ambient noise in dynamic, relatively pristine Arctic marine habitats and evaluate the contributions of environmental and human noise sources. Long-term acoustic recorders were deployed around St. Lawrence Island and the Bering Strait region within key feeding and migratory corridors for protected species that are inherently important to Native Alaskan cultures. Over 3000 h of data from 14 recorders at nine sites were obtained from October 2014 to June 2017. Spatial and temporal ambient noise patterns were quantified with percentile statistics in 1/3rd-octave bands (0.02–8 kHz). Ice presence strongly influenced ambient noise by influencing the physical environment and presence of marine mammals. High variability in noise was observed within and between sites, largely as a function of ice presence and associated factors. Acute contributions of biological and anthropogenic sources to local ambient noise are compared to monthly averages, demonstrating how they influence Arctic soundscapes. • High variability in ambient noise was observed within and between sites. • Seasonal variability in ambient noise as well as site-specific differences were evident. • Ice presence strongly influenced ambient noise by influencing the physical environment and biological presence. • Acute biological and human sounds relative to typical ambient noise demonstrate influences on Arctic soundscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]