Researchers get funding to test seal-saving technology

The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) has awarded funding to a Namibian project using sound-based technology to reduce harmful seal interactions with fishing gear.

The council has awarded over N$40 million to 85 global projects through its 2025 Ocean Stewardship Fund (OSF).

The Namibian Hake Association, in collaboration with scientists and engineers, will trial targeted acoustic startle technology (Tast), a new deterrent that uses low-frequency sounds to trigger the brainstem’s startle reflex in seals.

The approach is grounded in neuroscience and is intended to reduce by-catch and gear entanglement.

“For some top predators, particularly certain marine mammal species, by-catch and gear entanglement in fisheries is hugely impactful.

This technology could offer a sustainable solution to longstanding human-wildlife conflicts and help balance the human need for food and livelihoods with wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship,” Thomas Götz, who will be conducting the research alongside local partners, says.

According to a description of the project on MSC’s website, previously used deterrents for seals include acoustic deterrent devices, which had a number of disadvantages.

Not only are they cumbersome, but they can damage the seal’s hearing and stop working after the animals grow used to the noise.
Tast would reduce these effects.

“The noise levels are loud enough for the seals to be deterred without damaging their hearing, or that of other species in the area. Research has shown that because the noise targets the animal’s innate neural flight response, habituation is unlikely,” the website reads.

Other projects benefiting from the OSF include testing electronic monitoring devices to ensure compliance in the use of bird-scaring lines, and advanced technology for recycling end-of-life fishing gear in South Africa.

“Congratulations to all recipients of the 2025 Ocean Stewardship Fund. Our vision is of an ocean teeming with life, and achieving this requires strong partnerships that drive innovation and deliver improvements at scale,” MSC chief executive Robert Howes says.

“These awards highlight the power of collaboration – from scientists and fishers testing inventive solutions to environmental and intergovernmental organisations working alongside fishers to implement large-scale changes in management practices.

“We’re proud that the OSF can help support these transformative partnerships.”

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