Setting Minimum Standards
The Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA) has developed a series of Position Statements to outline our collective stance on minimum recommended standards for marine mammal observation, passive acoustic monitoring (PAM), and mitigation of anthropogenic sound impacting marine wildlife and species of concern (SOC)*. These statements are designed to support the implementation of robust, science-based mitigation across offshore operations.
Where national regulatory frameworks are in place, these procedures must take precedence; however, in regions where formal guidelines are absent or under development, MMOA Position Statements offer a valuable reference for regulators, governments, non-governmental organisations, and industry seeking to establish or revise mitigation practices. Our statements apply to professionals working in a mitigation-specific context—that is, in association with anthropogenic sound sources such as seismic surveys, piling, or other industrial marine activities, rather than baseline scientific research or population monitoring.
All Position Statements can be viewed online or downloaded as a single consolidated document.
Summary of the MMOA Position Statements
- Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) must be conducted for projects that may impact marine wildlife, providing the evidence base for effective mitigation planning.
- Mitigation Plans should be tailored to site, species, and activity-specific contexts.
- All mitigation measures should reflect the best available science; in its absence, a precautionary approach is recommended.
- PAM has known limitations and should not automatically replace visual monitoring. Where appropriate, alternative monitoring approaches or night-time operational restrictions should be considered.
- Only individuals with suitable qualifications, field experience, and independence should serve as mitigation professionals.
- Training certification alone does not qualify an individual to work in marine fauna mitigation roles without accompanying applied experience.
- Training providers should clearly state that certification is not a standalone qualification for professional marine fauna mitigation implementation and understanding.
- Scientific analysis of marine fauna data collected during industry projects should be carried out by qualified analysts using standardised methodologies.
- Global standardisation of marine fauna data collected during industry projects is strongly encouraged to improve consistency and scientific value.
- Publication of data, with appropriate permissions, should be supported to advance the evidence base for mitigation practices.
The MMOA encourages feedback from members and stakeholders, and these statements are subject to periodic review and revision to reflect evolving best practices and emerging scientific knowledge. Each Position Statement are as followed and can be accessed by clicking on the titles below:
