THE International Maritime Organization (IMO) is seeking Lead Pilot Countries (LPCs) to participate in the GloNoise Partnership project which aims to address the issue of underwater noise from shipping.

The project is in a preparatory phase and is expected to launch mid-2023, subject to approval and funding by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

If approved, the project is expected to receive $2 million in funding under the GEF International Waters focal area and will be executed by IMO over a period of two years.

The GloNoise Partnership will focus on building capacity in developing countries to implement the “Guidelines for the reduction of underwater noise from commercial shipping to address adverse impacts on marine life.”

IMO will prioritize the selection of developing countries to become LPCs and is hoping to achieve a balanced global geographical distribution. LPCs are expected to take a championing role in their respective regions.