Anthropogenic electromagnetic fields in the marine environment are increasing rapidly as countries worldwide expand offshore energy systems, interconnectors and electrified maritime infrastructure. Electromagnetic fields are mentioned under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (Descriptor 11) as a pressure, and the European Commission's Technical Group on Underwater Noise (TG Noise) has begun to consider the topic more actively. However, despite emerging policy relevance, the scientific basis remains scant.
In this context, JPI Oceans has initiated a scoping process in which experts were asked to define a common scope and discuss potential implementation pathways. The exact scope, focus and way of implementation are the main questions to be addressed during the current Scoping Phase.
The countries currently involved in the scoping process are Belgium, Ireland, Italy, Norway and the UK.
Addressing the main uncertainties regarding anthropogenic electromagnetic fields (EMF) to provide a robust scientific basis for future ocean governance with regional, EU and global applicability, particularly focusing on:
- Biological responses and thresholds
- Likelihood of species encountering EMFs
- Source and exposure characterisation
- Power system differences between underwater cables, going from Alternating Current (AC) to High Volume Direct Current (DC) cables
- Monitoring, modelling and harmonisation
Anthropogenic electromagnetic fields (EMF) are an emerging cross-sectoral topic that is not yet coherently integrated into European marine governance or research programming. At a time of rapid expansion and diversification of offshore and electrified marine infrastructure, such a Joint Action could reduce uncertainties on EMF encounter likelihood, exposure and biological responses, as well as supporting more consistent and proportionate implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) Descriptor 11 and improve the evidence base for licensing and permitting decision.