Drowning in Noise: Prada Re-Nylon Explores Underwater Sound Pollution
Exploring the Prada Re-Nylon Initiative
In celebration of the 2025 Prada Re-Nylon Collection, Prada has launched the second episode of its four-part documentary series, created in collaboration with National Geographic CreativeWorks. This initiative is part of 'Sea Beyond', an educational program developed by the Prada Group in partnership with UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) to promote ocean preservation and sustainability.
Prada Re-Nylon is a collection that redefines luxury by using regenerated nylon sourced from ocean plastics, discarded textiles, and other sustainable materials. Since July 2023, 1% of proceeds from the Prada Re-Nylon for Sea Beyond Collection have been directed toward ocean conservation education, supporting efforts to raise awareness among future generations.
Drowning in Noise: The Film's Message
The second episode, Drowning in Noise, takes viewers to Bodø, Norway, in the Arctic Circle, where actor and environmental advocate Benedict Cumberbatch explores the effects of human-generated noise on marine ecosystems. The film features 'Sea Beyond'er and Goodwill Ambassador Valentina Gottlieb, who interviews marine biologist Dr. Heike Vester, an expert in bioacoustics and marine social behavior.
The documentary vividly illustrates how whales, dolphins, and other marine animals rely on sound for communication, navigation, and survival. Viewers are immersed in the rich acoustic world of the ocean, where the haunting songs of whales can travel across entire ocean basins. However, the film also exposes how human activities have disrupted this balance—introducing overwhelming noise pollution from shipping, seismic surveys, and industrial activities that interfere with marine life's ability to thrive.
The Underwater Soundscape: Nature vs. Human Interference
Beneath the ocean's surface, marine creatures produce a symphony of natural sounds: the clicks of crustaceans, the whistles of dolphins, and the deep vocalizations of whales. These sounds are vital for survival, helping animals locate prey, communicate, and navigate the depths.
However, the modern ocean is no longer a quiet place. Drowning in Noise explains how the hum of ship engines, the thunderous blasts of seismic airguns searching for oil and gas, and industrial operations create a cacophony that disrupts marine life. Seismic surveys, in particular, produce sound waves so powerful that they can cause tissue damage in marine mammals and disrupt entire ecosystems. Studies suggest that sonar explosions kill thousands of marine organisms in their vicinity with every blast.
How We Can Protect the Oceans
The documentary not only raises awareness but also provides solutions. Scientists and environmentalists featured in Drowning in Noise advocate for several measures to mitigate human impact on marine ecosystems, including:
Developing quieter ship engines to reduce the constant hum of maritime traffic.
Rerouting shipping lanes to avoid critical marine habitats.
Replacing seismic surveys with alternative, less invasive exploration technologies.
Reducing reliance on petroleum-based products, as oil extraction is directly linked to destructive underwater noise.
Prada's Commitment to Sustainability
The Drowning in Noise episode underscores the philosophy behind Prada Re-Nylon: that fashion can be both luxurious and sustainable. Since its launch, the Re-Nylon project has aimed to not only transform materials but also to reshape consumer consciousness about environmental impact. By funding Sea Beyond and supporting educational programs, Prada is investing in the next generation of ocean advocates, ensuring that marine conservation remains a priority.
Through this documentary series, Prada is demonstrating how storytelling can be a powerful force for change. By educating the public on the often-overlooked issue of underwater noise pollution, the brand is leading by example—showing that sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.
Watch the full episode: Prada Re-Nylon: Episode 2 – Drowning in Noise
