ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS

It is important to ensure that the data collected by WaterWhisper is accurate, reliable and in line with the FAIR principles, especially if it is being used for scientific research or other purposes that rely on accurate data. To ensure that the data is accurate and reliable, we recommend calibrating the devices replicating the data with multiple devices when possible. Furthermore, we provide users with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for deploying and maintaining the device, and

We want our work to be 100% transparent. Transparency ensures that our data is accurate, trustworthy and reproducible. Also, the use of our device should be open to public scrutiny, which is especially important if the data is being used for scientific research. To ensure this, we are providing the public with precise instructions on how to build and deploy the sensor, and presenting the full, raw data. This enables researchers and the public to analyse the data independently, ensuring objectivity. Furthermore, we have implemented feedback mechanisms on the website which enables the public to ask questions, provide feedback, or report issues with the device or the data.

Respecting individual privacy is important to us. To safeguard personal information, WaterWhisper is designed to measure the magnitude of sounds rather than capturing and recording precise audio data. This ensures that we prioritise privacy by not capturing any identifiable sound information.

It’s of uttermost importance to ensure the safety of those operating WaterWhisper and any other marine vessels in the vicinity. By attaching WaterWhisper to a buoy, we provide increased visibility and warning signs, ensuring that other marine vessels can easily identify and navigate around the buoy. This approach minimises the risk of accidents and enhances the overall safety of the marine environment. To ensure the safety of those operating WaterWhisper, we have developed a safety protocol which should be followed in order to minimise the potential for accidents or injuries.

We want our data to be analysed in a way that is free from bias or discrimination, which goes hand in hand with data accuracy and transparency. To ensure this we follow standardised protocols for data collection and analysis, as well as practising 100% transparency, in order to minimise subjective biases in the project. Furthermore, we have collaborated with external experts and organisations to validate our findings and receive alternative perspectives on our way of thinking.

The use of WaterWhisper could potentially disturb marine life, resulting in negative consequences for animals and ecosystems. Thus, we urge our users to avoid sensitive areas such as marine protected areas, breeding grounds or other critical habitats, and to consult with local authorities to identify the deployment areas with the least environmental impact. It is also important to use deployment techniques that causes minimal physical disturbance to the marine environment, such as reducing seabed contact and utilising already existing buoys rather than deploying new ones.  In addition to this, we have developed a waste management plan for WaterWhisper, which includes instructions for proper disposal or recycling of materials, thus minimising the environmental impact.

Although our data is intended for scientific research, we are also aware of the potential use for commercial and military activities. It is a matter of balancing responsible data sharing while still ensuring transparency, and we think it is of uttermost importance to consider who will have access to our data and how it will be used. This is one of the reasons why we have chosen to only measure the magnitude of sound rather than recording precise audio data, thus preventing the data from being misused. Furthermore, we require all users requesting access to the data to accept our terms of use which specifies the terms and conditions for data use.