AI Tech Shields Whales and Dolphins from Ships

Artificial Intelligence (AI) aims to combat the dual threats of ship collisions and engine noise faced by whales and dolphins at sea.

In Ireland, an NGO has created a real-time alert system. Named Smart Whales Sound, the ORCA association leads it.

Emer Keaveney, ORCA’s founder, praises AI for enhancing marine protection. Launched in 2020, this initiative analyzes large sets of data efficiently.

An underwater microphone, or hydrophone, is at its core. It picks up whale sounds in an 80-square-kilometer area and dolphin noises in a 13-square-kilometer zone.

Kenneth Fredriksen of Huawei highlights the challenges. Ocean conditions require durable equipment. The company provides the needed technology.

Additionally, the focus is on refining the system’s algorithms for sharper accuracy.

ORCA urges the fishing and shipping sectors to cooperate. This way, ships can easily avoid areas with sea mammals.

Keaveney has big plans, including a national scale-up along Ireland’s coast.

The aim? Safeguard as many sea mammals as possible. After all, their survival heavily relies on using sound for activities like hunting.

Noise pollution can lead to distress and even fatal results, warns Keaveney.

For dolphins, sound plays a vital role in social bonds. Unique whistles serve as their “names.” Expecting mothers often repeat these whistles.

This helps unborn calves learn to recognize them. Once born, the group remains silent to let the newborn hear its mother.

Keaveney emphasizes that sound is key to survival, whether you’re human or a sea mammal.

Background

This initiative showcases how technology can work hand-in-hand with conservation efforts. By doing so, AI contributes not just to industry but also to safeguarding our environment.

Yet, the project’s future relies on multi-sector collaboration. Fishing and shipping industries must join the cause for effective results.

Ultimately, combining AI with social responsibility could be a new blueprint for addressing environmental challenges.