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Deep-sea mining noise pollution threatens whales: study

14 Sept 00:24 Key points summarised by AI

A new study warns that deep-sea mining noise pollution significantly threatens ocean ecosystems, particularly blue whales and other cetaceans already stressed by human activities.
The research highlights how commercial-scale extraction of seabed minerals would interfere with cetacean communication (foraging, breeding, navigation) through 'auditory masking,' altering their behavior and increasing risks.
The Pacific Ocean's Clarion-Clipperton Zone, a critical habitat for numerous cetacean species, is poised for extensive manganese nodule extraction, raising acute concerns.
An impending 'two-year rule,' triggered by Nauru, means deep-sea mining could commence as early as July, even without finalized international regulations, posing an immediate risk to marine life.

Today 14:58 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's government will launch the "Chainat-Pasak-Gulf" water diversion canal project in fiscal year 2027, a seven-year mega-infrastructure initiative.
This permanent structural solution aims to mitigate recurrent central plains flooding by diverting water from the Chao Phraya River directly into the Gulf of Thailand, significantly reducing flow to major cities like Ayutthaya and Bangkok.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul justifies the long-term investment as a means to reduce future damages and fiscal burdens, contrasting it with the 40-50 billion baht spent annually on short-term flood relief.
Concurrently, the Prime Minister instructed officials to expand drainage capacity into the Tha Chin River and swiftly remove water hyacinths to improve immediate flood management.