There is a Planning Application in Shetland to use 12 newly developed Genuswave ADDs (also known as an Acoustic Startle Device ASD).

Each device outputs 180-182 decibels, louder than currently used 179 dB Terecos ADD. The proposed sound duration of a single device is lower than other ADDs, however this application is for multiple devices and the duration can be increased if the ASDs become ineffective as has happened with other new devices.

Genuswave is unlikely to comply with Scottish Law protecting dolphins from disturbance & injury as a simulated signal caused startle reflex (a type of disturbance) in a bottlenose dolphin (Gotz 2020).

 It will not bring an end to seal shooting as some seals tolerate the noise in the presence of food.

 The developers claim that the low frequency ASD does not “adversely impact” porpoises, however Benjamins et al (2018) found that that both high and low frequency signals disturb porpoise. If porpoises do remain near farms, can it be proven that they will not suffer hearing injury on long term exposure as do people working in noisy environments?

The claim that Genuswave can deter one species without affecting another requires scientific scrutiny, as highlighted by Trites and Spitz (2016). There is a need for testing of the devices by scientists independent of commercial interests.

The Planning Application does not mention that operating the ASDs may be a legal offence, it does not mention that the use of the devices would require a European Protected Species Licence where they could disturb cetaceans nor does it quote the scientific papers which cast doubt on the developers claims.

 Please sign and share this petition and ask the council not to grant permission until and unless it has been proven by scientists independent of commercial interest in this product that it cannot disturb any porpoise, dolphin or whale. Shetland Council : Application ref: 2020/015/MAR