UNDERWATER ACOUSTICS

Why is underwater noise management essential?

Noise generated by human activities in the marine environment (dredging, port construction, pile driving, maritime traffic, coastal industrial activities, etc.) can:

Affect the communication, navigation, detection, reproduction, and feeding of marine species (cetaceans, fish, invertebrates),
Cause stress, displacement, behavioral changes, or even auditory damage if levels are high or impulsive,
Interfere with sensitive ecosystems, key habitats, special protection areas, and marine reserves.

In Europe, this is regulated by the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), specifically Descriptor 11 (“Noise / Acoustic energy introduced underwater”), with its indicators (e.g., 11.1.1 impulsive sounds, 11.2.1 continuous low-frequency noise).

Therefore, to comply with regulations, licenses, environmental assessments, and corporate responsibility, there is a growing need for underwater acoustic studies, monitoring, and mitigation.

What is Underwater Acoustics?

At ACUSTTEL, we are specialists in underwater acoustics: we measure, model, and mitigate noise generated by human activities in the marine environment, with a dual objective: to minimize ecological impacts and to ensure your projects comply with current legislation.

Our range of services includes:

Predictive acoustic propagation models (Bellhop and other advanced tools).
Acoustic monitoring using specialized moorings and deployments.
Determination of Key Indicators for Descriptor 11 of the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD).
Detailed spectral analysis.
Definition of safety zones and exclusion footprints for sensitive species.
Proposals for corrective measures and underwater noise mitigation.

Why trust ACUSTTEL?

Because we combine advanced technical expertise, regulatory compliance, tailored services for every project, and a genuine commitment to the marine environment.

If you are planning port works, marine installations, offshore energy projects, or simply need to assess the underwater acoustic impact of your operations, contact us: we will help you design an effective, robust, and responsible acoustic strategy.

Professional Services

At ACUSTTEL, we offer comprehensive solutions for the management and mitigation of underwater noise in port projects, offshore activities, and any activity generating anthropogenic underwater noise (piling, machinery vibrations, explosions, dredging, etc.).

Predictive modeling: acoustic propagation simulation with Bellhop and other state-of-the-art models (ray tracing, normal modes, etc.) to identify impact zones.
In-situ monitoring: moorings with hydrophones and recording stations for continuous or point-based measurement.
Regulatory compliance: determination of Descriptor 11 of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), including indicators 11.1.1 (impulsive low/mid frequency sounds) and 11.2.1. (continuous low-frequency ambient sound).
Advanced signal analysis: calculation of sound pressure levels, frequency spectra, and source characterization.
Marine fauna protection: establishment of “exclusion zones” and sighting plans for sensitive species.
Corrective measures: specific recommendations (barriers, schedules, construction techniques) to reduce the acoustic footprint.

Our reports and data are prepared for environmental audits, licenses, and EIA, ensuring scientific rigor and operational value.

Servicios Profesionales Acustica subacuatica

Typical Work Process

Preliminary Diagnosis: environmental data collection (bathymetry, sound speed, temperature/salinity profile, seabed, maritime traffic routes, species present).
Predictive Modeling: model configuration (Bellhop or other), source scenarios, validation with previous data if available.
Real-time Monitoring: installation of moorings / stations, continuous or point-based acoustic data collection.
Technical Analysis: calculation of levels, spectra, comparison against standards / legal indicators, risk identification.
Mitigation Design: specific measures, cost-benefit, development of operational protocols, training or surveillance.
Official Reporting / Follow-up: submissions for licenses, environmental reports, audits, continuous monitoring if necessary.