Looking at Noise: Human Ecological Issues when Assessing the Impact of Seismic Surveys Effects on Oceanic Whales

Abstract: This thesis introduces different issues regarding the impact of anthropogenic sound pollution on oceanic cetaceans (whales). It involves looking at the problems of anthropocentrism and the notion of Umwelt when trying to assess the well-being of a western culturally important species, and the relationship between that species and the industrialization of the ocean. The thesis is specifically focusing on seismic surveys conducted when prospecting for submarine reserves of natural gas and oil. Six semi-structured interviews have been made with professionally active individuals who have different expertise experience regarding the issue. Material from interviews have been intertwined with secondary data in the field of research to address human ecological aspects of the problems when assessing seismic surveys impact on oceanic cetaceans. The thesis aims to work as an introductory component for further human ecological research in the field of research of seismic surveys impact on oceanic cetaceans.