| answer text |
<p>Defra recognises the significant impact underwater noise from ordnance clearance
and other activities can have on vulnerable marine species. We are working closely
with the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), other Government departments, Statutory
Nature Conservation Bodies (SNCBs) and marine industries to manage and reduce underwater
noise but must ensure any clearance method for the removal of unexploded ordnance
is both safe and effective.</p><p>The Government is currently investigating low order
techniques as alternatives to detonation in the removal of unexploded ordnance (UXO)
from the seabed. Defra welcomed controlled quarry testing of deflagration, a specific
low order technique which burns out the explosive material in a controlled manner,
funded by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), which
showed positive noise reductions.</p><p>Defra’s recently formed Offshore Wind Enabling
Actions Programme includes a dedicated team focusing on reducing, monitoring and managing
the impacts of underwater noise, including from UXO clearance, to reduce harm and
enable the sustainable and responsible growth of the offshore wind sector. This team
will be working with BEIS through its Strategic Environmental Assessment programme
to collect the further evidence needed on low order techniques for the clearance of
UXO, to ensure safety and efficacy as well as confirming if findings are transferable
to the offshore marine environment. Our aim is to commence further research this summer.</p><p>Additionally,
any removal of UXO must be individually assessed in accordance with our Habitats Regulations.
As the relevant marine regulator, the MMO considers all forms of potential mitigation
to effectively manage underwater noise prior to issuing a marine licence under the
Marine and Coastal Access Act (2009). A marine species licence is also required if
the activity is likely to negatively affect a protected species, which includes all
dolphins, whales and porpoises. Further, marine mammal specialists are deployed to
ensure there are no marine mammals in the vicinity and where appropriate bubble curtains
are used to limit the sound travelling through the water.</p>
|
|
