The Port of Seattle celebrates Quiet Sound's success in reducing underwater noise

Green Marine association member Washington Maritime Blue has been recognized by the Port of Seattle for its Quiet Sound initiative. It received the Environmental Education and Outreach Award from the Port of Seattle’s annual Sustainable Century Awards recognizing outstanding environmental accomplishments along with partnerships with the port to achieve the sustainability goals outlined in its Century Agenda.

“We’re so thankful to the many hands that have helped shape and implement this program since 2021, including the Port of Seattle,” said Rachel Aronson, Quiet Sound’s director. “Quiet Sound is honored to receive this recognition on behalf of our coalition of members and continue ensuring that the Southern Resident killer whales and our region’s blue economy thrive together in Washington waters.” 

Quiet Sound’s collaborative effort reduced underwater noise by 45% with voluntary commercial vessel slowdowns through the Admiralty Inlet corridor in Puget Sound between Whidbey Island and the Olympic Peninsula. Underwater noise is a key concern for Southern Resident killer whales, in addition to reduced Chinook salmon populations and poor water quality. By working across private and public sectors, 70% of vessels decreased their speed during an 80-day slowdown with minimal effects on maritime trade and no safety impacts.