An Explosive Problem

A great deal of construction is taking place on the seabed around the UK coast, especially in relation to fixing the foundations for wind turbines. It is estimated, however, that there are 100,000 tonnes of unexploded mines and bombs (left over from World War 2 or lost in more recent naval exercises) in these waters. Naturally, these have to be rendered safe, before construction can start. This is most commonly done by exploding the devices as they are located. There are currently about 50 detonations per year in the seas around the UK. Biologists have pointed out, however, that the shock waves generated can (and do) deafen marine mammals (dolphins, porpoises and whales) in the region (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/nov/03/stop-blowing-up-bombs-on-sea-floor-say-whale-campaigners). All these animals use echolocation in their navigation, social communication and feeding, so a deafened marine mammal is dead! The scientists have asked that detonations be replaced by the much less damaging disposal process of deflagration. Here, a small charge opens the casing of the bomb or mine but the contained explosive is burned (rather than exploded) inside, without generating shock waves. This seems a very reasonable request. I am sure that many of us favour getting 'greener' energy from coastal wind-farms but don't see why this should be at the expense of marine mammals.