Woodside's Scarborough gas project faces legal challenge as scientists concerned over seismic blasting in WA

Scientists say seismic blasting in gas exploration can have subtle but critical effects on marine life as concerns rise over Woodside's Scarborough gas project in Western Australia's north. Key points: Scientists say seismic surveys can impact marine animal's feeding, communication and migration habits A Mardudhunera woman is challenging approval given for Woodside's seismic testing Raelene Cooper says proper consultation with traditional custodians wasn't carried out Companies searching for gas offshore conduct seismic surveys involving the release of powerful blasts of air towards the ocean floor. In July, the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority granted approval for Woodside to carry out seismic surveys at its Scarborough gas project. Sound can affect ocean's inhabitants Professor McCauley said seismic surveys seriously affected smaller animals, which could deplete feeding areas for whales.