Hugo Neu Corporation Sustainability Seminar Series: Underwater Noise Impacts of Large-Scale Renewable Energy Offshore Infrastructure
Department of Civil, Environmental, and Ocean Engineering
Speaker: Josh Wilson, INCE, MIOA Senior Engineer, WSP USA Inc.
ABSTRACT
As the development of large-scale offshore infrastructure projects continues to expand, effective environmental impact assessments (EIAs) are crucial for ensuring the protection of marine ecosystems. This presentation explores the methodologies used in assessing underwater noise impacts associated with subsea cable installations and offshore energy projects. It highlights key considerations in noise propagation modeling, technical decision-making processes, and the challenges of predicting and mitigating potential effects on marine life. Drawing from a case study of a first-of-a-kind subsea cable connection between Europe and Africa, this discussion will provide insights into best practices for underwater acoustic assessments within the broader framework of marine environmental consenting.
BIOGRAPHY
Mr. Wilson is a Senior Engineer at WSP USA Inc. with over 10 years of experience specifying, managing, and delivering acoustics projects in various sectors, including provision of inputs to nationally and internationally significant infrastructure projects. Mr. Wilson has primarily focused on environmental and underwater acoustics applications and has delivered projects in the US, UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Mr. Wilson obtained his BSc in Acoustics & Music at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR) at the University of Southampton, UK.
Mr. Wilson is currently leading WSPs Global Underwater Acoustics Practice Area, has been a contributing author to an offshore industry research project and subsequent guidance document, and is an active member of the Institute of Acoustics (IOA) in the UK and the Institute of Noise Control Engineering (INCE) in the US.
Zoom Link:
https://stevens.zoom.us/s/93320868101
Website:
https://www.stevens.edu/sustainability-seminar-series
Jointly Sponsored by:
HUGO NEU Corporation
WSP
Brown and Caldwell
H2M Architects and Engineers
Lozier Inc.
Dewberry
HDR