Toward a comprehensive assessment of the disturbance of marine ecosystems by anthropogenic underwater noise

Overview

Funding for research projects that advance scientific methods, tools, and indicators to monitor and assess the impacts of anthropogenic underwater noise on marine ecosystems, supporting the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and global ocean protection initiatives. Targets consortia of research institutions, public authorities, and industry partners.

Who Can Apply

Consortia composed of legal entities from eligible countries, including research institutions, universities, public authorities, non-governmental organizations, and private companies. Single applicants are not eligible.

Funding Details

Maximum grant amount: 10,000,000 EUR. Funding rate and co-funding requirements follow Horizon Europe rules, typically covering up to 100% of eligible costs for non-profit entities and up to 70% for for-profit organizations.

What Is Funded

Projects must focus on:

• Developing or improving methods and tools for monitoring underwater noise impacts on marine species and ecosystems, accounting for regional differences.
• Creating or refining indicators to assess noise exposure effects and cumulative impacts on marine organisms and ecosystem services.
• Investigating mitigation measures for ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, and tools to evaluate their effectiveness.
• Supporting the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the EU’s High-Ambition Coalition for a Quiet Ocean.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must operate at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4 to 6, demonstrating validated components or prototypes in relevant environments.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-04-16
• Deadline: 2026-09-16

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage application process. Proposals must be submitted via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal, adhering to the page limits and templates specified in the call documentation.

Geographic Scope & Language

Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland. Application language: English.

Notes

Proposals must align with Horizon Europe’s general conditions, including admissibility, eligibility, and evaluation criteria. Projects should contribute to the EU’s broader objectives for marine ecosystem protection and noise pollution mitigation.