Ocean Conservation & Bioacoustics - The ocean covers over 70% of the planet, connecting people, cultures, continents, past, present, and future [1][22] - Only about 5% of the ocean has been explored with precision, highlighting the vast unknown [4] - Sound is crucial for marine life for communication, navigation, defense, and survival [5][9][10] - Sound travels at approximately 1500 meters per second in the ocean, about five times faster than in the air [7] Marine Noise Pollution - Marine noise pollution is an increasing threat, primarily from cargo ships, oil platforms, and military sonars [11][12] - Excess noise can cause hearing damage, disorientation, communication interference, and stress in marine animals, leading to behavioral changes and mortality [15] - Mass strandings of cetacean species have been linked to high-intensity military sonars [16] Conservation Efforts & Impact - Somar, an organization founded in 2020, unites science, art, and education to connect people with the ocean [3] - Somar has reached approximately 5,000 people through its activities, creating a network of awareness [17] - Environmental sustainability requires conscious use of natural resources and reduced environmental impact [20] - The ocean produces most of the oxygen we breathe, stores carbon, regulates climate, and supports biodiversity [23]