ECoSS Project
The project ECoSS (European Catalogue of Sound Signatures) is dedicated to constructing and validating an open library comprising a curated and continually expanding digital repository of sound signatures from marine underwater soundscapes in shallow seas.
It aligns with the objectives outlined in the EU's Open Science Policy, the INSPIRE (Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe) Directive, and the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) data principles. A more comprehensive understanding of the diverse signatures of underwater sound sources is imperative to effectively link recorded sounds to their emitting sources and characterizing the anthropogenic sound pressure within a specific area.
Through the utilization of Deep Learning (DL) methodologies, the project aims to streamline the process of constructing the open library while ensuring its scalability and effectiveness in addressing critical environmental challenges. (Funded under CINEA/CD(2022)5010/PP/SI2.899121).
The companies that are contributing to this project are Marine Technology Centre (CTN), ETT S.p.A., International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), On AIR srl, SAES, S.M.E., Shom, SMHI and Witteveen+Bos.
Welcome Coffee and registration
Session 1: Round Table on Challenges of Underwater Noise
The objective of this session was to provide an understanding of why different signatures of underwater sound sources are needed to successfully connect measured sounds to their emitting source(s) and further identify the abiotic sound pressure in an area. Additionally, the session explained how these tools may help define programmes of measures under the MSFD.
Participants:
Antonio Novellino, Research Manager at ETT S.p.A.
Carlos Pinto, Analyst at ICES – International Council for the Exploration of the Sea
Michelle Toering Sanders, Transport Canada – Transports Canada, Alternate Permanent Representative of Canada to the International Maritime Organization.
Session 2: Presentation of the Digital Catalogue and Use Case
In this session, we introduced the digital catalogue developed as part of the ECoSS project. The presentation covered the catalogue’s structure, key features, and the methodologies used in its development. We explored a practical use case to demonstrate how the catalogue can be applied in real-world scenarios, highlighting its benefits and potential applications in underwater acoustic research and operations.
Participants:
Antonio Novellino, Research Manager at ETT S.p.A.
Noelia Ortega, CEO at CTN.
Rosa Martínez Álvarez – Castellanos, Lead Data Scientist at CTN.
José Antonio García Gambín, Senior Data Scientist at CTN
Pablo Aguirre Cárcel, Electronic Engineer at SAES, S.M.E.
Isabel Carozzo, Data Scientist at On AIR srl.
Timothée Maison, R&D Engineer in signal processing / underwater acoustics at SHOM.
Session 3: Challenges & Opportunities
The session examined the challenges and opportunities associated with the EcoSS project. Experts discussed the technical, operational, and environmental hurdles encountered during the project’s development and implementation. The session also highlighted potential opportunities for innovation and collaboration, aiming to enhance the project’s impact and applicability in the field of underwater acoustics. Attendees gained insights into overcoming obstacles and leveraging new possibilities to advance research and practical applications.
Participants:
Noelia Ortega, CEO at CTN.
Arie de Niet, Senior Data Analyst, Witteveen+Bos.
Conor Delaney, Technical Coordinator & Deputy Head, EMODnet Secretariat
Eduardo Ruiz, Security and Environmental Protection Line Manager, SAES, S.M.E.