MSC Recognized in Conservation Initiative to Protect Endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales in Washington State

MSC is proud to have received a Certificate of Recognition for participating in the 2024-2025 Quiet Sound Voluntary Vessel Slowdown, a seasonal initiative aimed at reducing underwater noise in Admiralty Inlet and north Puget Sound, Washington.

Underwater noise is one of the primary threats to killer whales. When large vessels reduce their speed they generate less noise beneath the ocean surface, helping killer whales to hunt, navigate, and communicate more effectively.

Quiet Sound is a strategic endeavor led by a coalition of Washington state-based organizations across industry, government, academia, communities, and investors to create a thriving Blue Economy. Its mission is to mitigate the noise impact of large commercial ships on Southern Resident killer whales, for whom Admiralty Inlet and Puget Sound serve as critical habitat.

The Impact of Slowing Down

Between 6 October 2024 and 12 January 2025, MSC vessels completed 18 transits through the designated slowdown zone. Of these, 94% reduced speed and 72% met the recommended targets, demonstrating MSC’s leadership and commitment as ocean stewards to responsible navigation practices and marine conservation.

In recognition of MSC’s contribution, Quiet Sound awarded the Company a Certificate of Recognition. The slowdown period, which ran from October 2024 to January 2025, resulted in:

• A 35% reduction in underwater noise intensity within the frequency range used by killer whales for communication.
• The presence of Southern Resident killer whales for at least 57 out of 98 days during the slowdown, more than any previous season recorded by Quiet Sound.
• Participation from over 570 transits, reinforcing the collective impact of voluntary industry action.

74 Reasons to Participate

With only 74 Southern Resident killer whales left, this program is critical to conservation challenges facing this species. As responsible stewards, MSC is committed to the protection of the terrestrial and marine environment, reducing pollution and ensuring sustainable development for future generations.

We thank Quiet Sound for their leadership and look forward to continued collaboration in the upcoming 2025-2026 slowdown season, planned 2 September 2025 to 11 January 2026.

• Learn more about Quiet Sound’s Admiralty Inlet Slowdown.
• Learn more about MSC’s efforts to deliver meaningful and lasting results for whales.

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