The Covid-19 pandemic left the oceans quieter than ever in 2020, allowing scientists to analyze the effect human-generated sound has on marine life. This map from the IQOE-endorsed JOMOPANS project shows the difference between the total noise level and the natural noise level with differences up to 30 decibels (dB). While 30 dB on its own is not loud, the superimposition raises the level significantly higher than natural noise. (Credit: JOMOPANS) (CN) — A unique new study has taken advantage of the momentary pause in human activity in the ocean during the Covid-19 pandemic, as scientists around the world listen for how human-generated noise in the water and a lack thereof affects marine life.