On 3 an 4 February 2026, the annual meeting of the OSPAR Intersessional Correspondence Group on Noise (ICG Noise) took place at Rijkswaterstaat in Delft, the Netherlands. Around 17 experts attended in person, and a similar number joined online.
OSPAR is the regional sea convention that works to protect the marine environment of the North-East Atlantic Ocean. Since 2010, ICG Noise has supported the implementation of OSPAR strategies on underwater noise. The group brings together experts from OSPAR countries to discuss monitoring, policy development, and mitigation measures related to underwater sound.
The main topic of this year’s meeting was the progress of the Regional Action Plan (RAP) on underwater noise. The RAP was adopted in June 2025 at the OSPAR Ministerial Meeting in Vigo, Spain. It includes eight actions that address different sources and impacts of underwater noise. Less than a year after its adoption, the RAP is clearly up and running. It provides guidance to help countries develop and strengthen their national policies on underwater noise.
From the start, it has been clear that the DEMASK project contributes directly to the RAP and to OSPAR’s wider objectives. During the meeting, Niels Kinneging (Rijkswaterstaat) presented the DEMASK project. He highlighted its work on marine species, recreational boating, and policy advice. The group welcomed DEMASK’s contribution and recognised its relevance for the implementation of the RAP.
Reflecting on his final meeting as Co-Convenor, Niels Kinneging said: “The OSPAR expert group is one of the most effective groups in the field of underwater noise.”