Members of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) gathered in Oslo today for the Annual General Meeting (AGM), a key forum for setting strategic direction, and reviewing environmental priorities, and strengthening collaboration across the Arctic expedition cruise industry.
Among the key outcomes of this year’s AGM was the formal adoption of underwater noise as a new environmental focus area. The decision reflects AECO’s commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of Arctic expedition cruising and advancing evidence-based, collaborative approaches to address this pressing environmental challenge.
“Today, we voted to develop mandatory guidelines for underwater noise mitigation and to collaborate with partners to move these issues forward through practical and effective solutions.” said Karin Strand, chair of AECO’s Executive Committee “Recognizing the impact of underwater noise aligns closely with AECO’s mission to promote responsible tourism.”
Building on Ongoing Research and Collaboration
AECO has already taken significant steps to better understand and address the impact of underwater noise from expedition cruise operations. Currently the organization is actively involved in two major research projects that serve as the foundation for its next phase of environmental action.
In the Canadian Arctic, AECO is contributing to a collaborative project with Oceans North, the University of San Diego, and the Mittimatalik Hunters and Trappers Organization. This initiative focuses on measuring ship-specific noise, developing predictive noise maps, and fostering regional cooperation. The project is supported by Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
In Svalbard, AECO’s members are participating in a research study led by the Norwegian Polar Institute, with the goal of identifying ship characteristics and operational factors that contribute to noise pollution.
These initiatives demonstrate AECO’s commitment to science-based solutions and regional collaboration and form a strong foundation as the organization moves to formalize this issue within the broader environmental framework.
By formalizing underwater noise as a priority, AECO provides a proactive framework for members to reduce noise-related impacts through voyage planning, targeted training, onboard data collection, and improved operational practices
“This decision provides a structured, forward-looking framework to help our members adapt and lead in a changing Arctic,” said Frigg Jørgensen AECO’s executive director. “It reflects our commitment to continuous improvement, environmental stewardship, and collaboration.”
AECO’s Action Plan on Underwater Noise
With underwater noise now established as a formal environmental focus area, AECO will take the following steps to reduce potential impacts:
Develop Guidelines
Create noise reduction guidelines based on scientific research, and aligned with international (e.g., IMO) and national regulations, guidelines, and best practices.
Strengthen Partnerships
Partner with scientific institutions, Indigenous organizations, and other stakeholders to expand research and identify effective mitigation strategies.
Build Member Awareness
Offer training and resources to AECO members to support the adoption of operational best practices.
Support Innovation
Encourage the development and use of quieter vessel technologies within the expedition cruise industry.
Inform Policy
Use data and insights from AECO-facilitated research to contribute to the development of regional policies.
Arctic Expedition Cruise Week is an annual event hosted by AECO in Oslo, bringing together cruise operators, destination representatives, and industry stakeholders. The three-day program includes networking and marketplace events, a full-day conference on sustainable tourism and industry best practices, and AECO’s Annual General Meeting.
(Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators Target Underwater Noise. AGM Decision Sets New Environmental Focus for AECO)
Tags: ArcticAssociation of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO)Oslo
Appeared first on: Latecruisenews.com
