1
|
Palanivel Partha S, Bharathidasan V, Damotharan P, Selvaraj P, Murugesan P, Sivaraj S, Syed A, Elgorban AM. Assessment of ecological status of Uppanar and Vellar estuaries through multivariate pollution indices. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 203:116390. [PMID: 38701600 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Multivariate pollution degree indices were utilized to evaluate the environmental condition of the Uppanar and Vellar estuaries. The Trophic Index (TRIX) indicates a state of "moderate eutrophication" with a value of 4.92, while the Trophic State Index (TSI) ranged from 40.3 to 57.2, categorizing the trophic states from "oligotrophic" to "eutrophic". The Comprehensive Pollution Index (CPI) showed a range of 0.13 to 0.94, classifying pollution levels from "unpolluted" to "slightly polluted". The study revealed that the Uppanar and Vellar estuaries underwent seasonal variations, transitioning from an oligotrophic state during the post-monsoon and summer periods to a eutrophic state in the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons. The application of multivariate statistical tools allowed the identification of pollution indicator species to assess the estuarine systems. The insights gained from this study can be valuable for assessing other ecosystems facing similar anthropogenic activities, providing a basis for informed management and conservation strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarathy Palanivel Partha
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608 502, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Veeraiyan Bharathidasan
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608 502, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Palani Damotharan
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608 502, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Palanichamy Selvaraj
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Kaliswari College (Autonomous), Sivakasi 626130, India
| | - Perumal Murugesan
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608 502, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sigamani Sivaraj
- Centre for Ocean Research, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600119, India.
| | - Asad Syed
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdallah M Elgorban
- Center of Excellence in Biotechnology Research (CEBR), King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Veeraswamy D, Subramanian A, Mohan D, Ettiyagounder P, Selvaraj PS, Ramasamy SP, Veeramani V. Exploring the origins and cleanup of mercury contamination: a comprehensive review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-30636-z. [PMID: 37964142 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30636-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Mercury is a global pollutant that poses significant risks to human health and the environment. Natural sources of mercury include volcanic eruptions, while anthropogenic sources include industrial processes, artisanal and small-scale gold mining, and fossil fuel combustion. Contamination can arise through various pathways, such as atmospheric deposition, water and soil contamination, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification in food chains. Various remediation strategies, including phytoremediation, bioremediation, chemical oxidation/reduction, and adsorption, have been developed to address mercury pollution, including physical, chemical, and biological approaches. The effectiveness of remediation techniques depends on the nature and extent of contamination and site-specific conditions. This review discusses the challenges associated with mercury pollution and remediation, including the need for effective monitoring and management strategies. Overall, this review offers a comprehensive understanding of mercury contamination and the range of remediation techniques available to mitigate its adverse impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Davamani Veeraswamy
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Directorate of Natural Resource Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), ATC Building, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Arulmani Subramanian
- Department of Chemistry, Bannari Amman Institute of Technology, Sathyamangalam, 638 401, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Deepasri Mohan
- Division of Environmental Sciences, Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Shalimar, 190025, Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory, India
| | - Parameswari Ettiyagounder
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Directorate of Natural Resource Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Paul Sebastian Selvaraj
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Directorate of Natural Resource Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), ATC Building, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Sangeetha Piriya Ramasamy
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Directorate of Natural Resource Management, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
- School of Water, Energy, and Environment, Cranfield University, Cranfield, MK43 0AL, UK
| | - Venkatesan Veeramani
- Department of Civil Engineering, University College of Engineering, Anna University, Ariyalur, 621 731, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Katagi W, Butler N, Keith A, Backlar S, Orr B. Ecological restoration of the Los Angeles River provides natural and human benefits as part of a virtuous socioecological cycle. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.932550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ecological restoration in the Los Angeles (LA) River watershed is proceeding on multiple fronts with the support and engagement of diverse stakeholder groups. Pilot projects to restore habitat, reintroduce native species, and design science-based ecosystem enhancements have produced real benefits to nature and people and demonstrated the potential for additional benefits. The pilot projects, which are in various stages of collaborative planning and implementation, have generated increased interest and financial support to further their implementation and maximize socioecological co-benefits. This self-reinforcing positive feedback is an example of a virtuous cycle established through a combination of long-term environmental planning, community-building, and watershed-scale scientific study to gain the support of stakeholders and align ecological intervention (i.e., restoration) with the plans and policies of governments, resource managers, conservation groups, and grassroots advocacy groups. Conservation and restoration projects targeting iconic and protected focal species can be an effective means of leveraging these interests and building support. For example, the LA River Fish Passage and Habitat Structures project addresses a critical limiting factor for the recovery of endangered steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) while also enhancing urban biodiversity and providing recreational opportunities and other beneficial uses (e.g., ecosystem services) for the surrounding communities. Through these efforts, our planners, ecologists, and engineers are using place-based conservation to demonstrate solutions to problems that affect people and nature in other urban landscapes. Here, we show how this work can provide socioecological benefits in disadvantaged communities and also generate public awareness and motivation to perpetuate the cycle of positive feedback.
Collapse
|
4
|
Pandey V, Venkatnarayanan S, Kumar PS, Ratnam K, Jha DK, Rajaguru S, Dharani G. Assessment of ecological health of Swarnamukhi river estuary, southeast coast of India, through AMBI indices and multivariate tools. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 164:112031. [PMID: 33515835 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A combination of biotic indices, geo-accumulation (Igeo) index, and a multivariate approach were applied to assess the anthropogenic influence on the benthic community at five stations from 2018 to 2019 in the Swarnamukhi river estuary, Nellore, India. Non-metric multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis indicated that the Buckingham canal (BC) station showed azoic conditions and formed a separate cluster. Strong positive factor loadings of Cd (0.96), Al (0.93), Zn (0.91), Fe (0.90), Co (0.89), Cu (0.89), Ni (0.87), Pb (0.85), Cr (0.77), organic matter (0.94), Silt (0.92), and clay (0.93) and negative loading of sand (-0.90) showed the variability in sediment. AMBI results illustrated the disturbance status of each station and classified BC station as 'extremely disturbed' class, and M-AMBI assessed the ecological status as 'bad'. The Igeo index also revealed metal (Cd) contamination. The present study illustrated that the combined approach is effective for ecological assessment of coastal ecosystem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Pandey
- National Institute of Ocean Technology (Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India), Chennai 600100, India.
| | - S Venkatnarayanan
- National Institute of Ocean Technology (Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India), Chennai 600100, India
| | - P Sathish Kumar
- National Institute of Ocean Technology (Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India), Chennai 600100, India
| | - Krupa Ratnam
- National Institute of Ocean Technology (Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India), Chennai 600100, India
| | - Dilip Kumar Jha
- National Institute of Ocean Technology (Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India), Chennai 600100, India.
| | - S Rajaguru
- National Institute of Ocean Technology (Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India), Chennai 600100, India
| | - G Dharani
- National Institute of Ocean Technology (Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India), Chennai 600100, India.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lonsdale JA, Blake S, Griffith A. A novel systematic, risk based approach to support the designation of aquatic disposal sites. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 162:111874. [PMID: 33310542 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Humans rely fundamentally on the marine environment, which is at the same time subject to an increasingly broad range of anthropogenic pressures, leading to growing concerns and the need for effective management for marine protection. One activity is the dredging of ports and harbours which is necessary to maintain safe channels for commercial and recreational navigation. Regulatory authorities in developing countries have few resources to conduct full EIAs for determining dredged material disposal sites but are required to do so under international obligations. The Tool in this paper provides an effective, pragmatic, transparent, consistent, and robust approach to protect the environment whilst using limited technical and scientific resources through a risk based approach to defining need, characterising and designating disposal sites at sea for dredged material. Whilst this approach for dredged material disposal sites was developed for use in UK, this process is equally applicable to other waste types, worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jemma-Anne Lonsdale
- Cefas, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
| | - Sylvia Blake
- Cefas, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Andrew Griffith
- Cefas, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bedford J, Ostle C, Johns DG, Atkinson A, Best M, Bresnan E, Machairopoulou M, Graves CA, Devlin M, Milligan A, Pitois S, Mellor A, Tett P, McQuatters-Gollop A. Lifeform indicators reveal large-scale shifts in plankton across the North-West European shelf. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2020; 26:3482-3497. [PMID: 32237280 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.15066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Increasing direct human pressures on the marine environment, coupled with climate-driven changes, is a concern to marine ecosystems globally. This requires the development and monitoring of ecosystem indicators for effective management and adaptation planning. Plankton lifeforms (broad functional groups) are sensitive indicators of marine environmental change and can provide a simplified view of plankton biodiversity, building an understanding of change in lower trophic levels. Here, we visualize regional-scale multi-decadal trends in six key plankton lifeforms as well as their correlative relationships with sea surface temperature (SST). For the first time, we collate trends across multiple disparate surveys, comparing the spatially and temporally extensive Continuous Plankton Recorder (CPR) survey (offshore) with multiple long-term fixed station-based time-series (inshore) from around the UK coastline. These analyses of plankton lifeforms showed profound long-term changes, which were coherent across large spatial scales. For example, 'diatom' and 'meroplankton' lifeforms showed strong alignment between surveys and coherent regional-scale trends, with the 1998-2017 decadal average abundance of meroplankton being 2.3 times that of 1958-1967 for CPR samples in the North Sea. This major, shelf-wide increase in meroplankton correlated with increasing SSTs, and contrasted with a general decrease in holoplankton (dominated by small copepods), indicating a changing balance of benthic and pelagic fauna. Likewise, inshore-offshore gradients in dinoflagellate trends, with contemporary increases inshore contrasting with multi-decadal decreases offshore (approx. 75% lower decadal mean abundance), urgently require the identification of causal mechanisms. Our lifeform approach allows the collation of many different data types and time-series across the NW European shelf, providing a crucial evidence base for informing ecosystem-based management, and the development of regional adaptation plans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Bedford
- Marine Conservation Research Group, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Clare Ostle
- The Marine Biological Association, The Laboratory, Plymouth, UK
| | - David G Johns
- The Marine Biological Association, The Laboratory, Plymouth, UK
| | | | - Mike Best
- The Environment Agency, Peterborough, UK
| | - Eileen Bresnan
- Marine Scotland Science, Marine Laboratory, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | - Carolyn A Graves
- Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Lowestoft, UK
| | - Michelle Devlin
- Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Lowestoft, UK
- Marine Collaborative Centre for Sustainable Use of the Seas (CCSUS), School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Alex Milligan
- Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Lowestoft, UK
| | - Sophie Pitois
- Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Lowestoft, UK
| | - Adam Mellor
- Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute, Belfast, UK
| | - Paul Tett
- Scottish Association for Marine Science, Scottish Marine Institute, Oban, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sigamani S, Perumal M, Thivakaran GA, Thangavel B, Kandasamy K. DNA barcoding of macrofauna act as a tool for assessing marine ecosystem. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 152:107891. [PMID: 27423443 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2016] [Revised: 07/09/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, marine ecosystem monitoring and assessment are increasingly depending on variety of molecular tools. With these background, DNA barcoding play a key role in species identification with increasing speed and accuracy, and although the suitability for developing genetic tools like genomic AMBI (gAMBI). Presently we have submitted 13 benthic polychaete species using mtCOI to GenBank. Of these, nine species were newly submitted, and hence they act as a benchmark and reference organism for identifying respective polychaete species worldwide in the near future. Based on that, our study results tend to be helpful for motivating among the researcher in order to implementing the genomic AMBI (gAMBI).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sivaraj Sigamani
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai, 608 502, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Murugesan Perumal
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai, 608 502, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Balasubramanian Thangavel
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai, 608 502, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kathiresan Kandasamy
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai, 608 502, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Integrating Ecosystem Services and Human Demand for a New Ecosystem Management Approach: A Case Study from the Giant Panda World Heritage Site. SUSTAINABILITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/su12010295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ecological management based on the ecosystem approach promotes ecological protection and the sustainable use of natural resources. We developed a quantitative approach to identify the ecological function zones at the country-scale, through integrating supply and demand of ecosystem services. We selected the biologically diverse hotspot of Baoxing County, which forms a part of the Sichuan Giant Panda World Heritage Site, to explore the integration of ecosystem services supply and demand for ecosystem management. Specifically, we assessed the various support, provision, regulating, and cultural services as classified by the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment. We applied the InVEST (Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs) model to spatially map habitat quality, water retention, and carbon sinks, and used statistical data to evaluate food products, animal husbandry, and product supply services. We then quantified the demands for these services in terms of population, protected species, hydropower, water, and land use. The relationship between areas of supply and areas of demand was discussed for each township, and the spatial variability in the supply–demand relationship was also considered. As a result, we spatially divided the county into six ecological functional areas, and the linkages between each region were comprehensively discussed. This study thus provides a detailed methodology for the successful implementation of an ecosystem management framework on a county-scale based on the spatial partitioning of supply and demand.
Collapse
|
9
|
Yang S, Zhao W, Liu Y, Wang S, Wang J, Zhai R. Influence of land use change on the ecosystem service trade-offs in the ecological restoration area: Dynamics and scenarios in the Yanhe watershed, China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 644:556-566. [PMID: 29990905 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.06.348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Land use change can result in variations in ecosystem services (ESs) and their relationships. Studying the temporal dynamics of ESs and their relationships can support scenario analyses that provide the theoretical basis for policy decisions and regional ecosystem management. Previous studies have revealed the trade-offs between two ESs on multiple scales, while the trade-offs between multiple ESs require further analysis. Furthermore, trade-offs are rarely considered in scenario constructions, which weakens the ability of scenarios to inform land use policy. In this study, the InVEST model was applied to assess carbon sequestration, habitat quality, nutrient retention, sediment retention and seasonal water yield at five-year intervals from 1990 to 2015 and to construct five simulated scenarios that represented different ecological restoration and land reclamation policies. The results indicated that the Grain for Green Project (GFGP) increased all ESs, with seasonal water yield increasing by approximately 1.29 times above the initial stage. However, decreasing cropland area reduced the correlations between ESs both in trade-offs and synergies. Among all scenarios studied, the Returning Cropland to Grassland trade-off scenario had the maximum effect, while the natural succession to shrubland scenario had a minimum effect at the pixel level. Except for the land reclamation scenario, the overall ES benefits in the other scenarios exceeded the benefits received in 2015. Given the extent of watershed areas impacted by different overall ES benefit and trade-off situations, the Returning Cropland to Grassland scenario appears to best reduce the impacts of the worst situation compared to 2015, reducing the negative impacts by 22.6%. We suggest that scenarios that combine both overall ESs values and their trade-offs can support more effective and efficient land use decisions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Institute of Land Surface System and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Wenwu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Institute of Land Surface System and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Yanxu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Institute of Land Surface System and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Institute of Land Surface System and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Institute of Land Surface System and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Ruijie Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; Institute of Land Surface System and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Turrell WR. Improving the implementation of marine monitoring in the northeast Atlantic. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 128:527-538. [PMID: 29571405 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.01.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Marine monitoring in the northeast Atlantic is delivered within identifiable monitoring themes, established through time and defined by the geographical area and policy drivers they serve, the sampling methodologies they use, their assessment methodologies, their funding and governance structures and the people or organisations involved in their implementation. Within a monitoring theme, essential components for effective monitoring are governance, strategy and work plan, sampling protocols, quality assurance, and data and assessment structures. This simple framework is used to analyse two monitoring theme case studies; national ecosystem health monitoring, and regional fish stock monitoring. Such essential component analyses, within marine monitoring themes, can help improve monitoring implementation by identifying gaps and overlaps. Once monitoring themes are recognised, explicitly defined and streamlined, travel towards integrated monitoring may be made easier as the current lack of clarity in thematic marine monitoring implementation is one barrier to integration at both national and regional scales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W R Turrell
- Marine Scotland Science, 375 Victoria Road, Aberdeen AB11 9DB, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Unifying the trans-disciplinary arsenal of project management tools in a single logical framework: Further suggestion for IUCN project cycle development. J Nat Conserv 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnc.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
12
|
Rouillard J, Lago M, Abhold K, Röschel L, Kafyeke T, Mattheiß V, Klimmek H. Protecting aquatic biodiversity in Europe: How much do EU environmental policies support ecosystem-based management? AMBIO 2018; 47:15-24. [PMID: 28612326 PMCID: PMC5709260 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-017-0928-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 05/27/2017] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems requires better coordination between policies span-ning freshwater, coastal and marine environments. Ecosystem-based management (EBM) has been promoted as a holistic and integrative approach for the safekeeping and protection of aquatic biodiversity. The paper assesses the degree to which key European environmental policies for the aquatic environment, namely the Birds and Habitats Directives, Water Framework Directive and Marine Strategy Framework Directive, individually support EBM and can work synergistically to implement EBM. This assessment is based on a review of legal texts, EU guidance and implementation documents. The paper concludes that EBM can be made operational by implementing these key environmental directives. Opportunities for improving the integration of EU environmental policies are highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Manuel Lago
- Ecologic Institute, Pfalzburgerstr. 43/44, 10717 Berlin, Germany
| | - Katrina Abhold
- Ecologic Institute, Pfalzburgerstr. 43/44, 10717 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lina Röschel
- Ecologic Institute, Pfalzburgerstr. 43/44, 10717 Berlin, Germany
| | - Terri Kafyeke
- Ecologic Institute, Pfalzburgerstr. 43/44, 10717 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Helen Klimmek
- IUCN, 64 Boulevard Louis Schmidt, 1040 Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lonsdale J, Nicholson R, Weston K, Elliott M, Birchenough A, Sühring R. A user's guide to coping with estuarine management bureaucracy: An Estuarine Planning Support System (EPSS) tool. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 127:463-477. [PMID: 29475687 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2017] [Revised: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Estuaries are amongst the most socio-economically and ecologically important environments however, due to competing and conflicting demands, management is often challenging with a complex legislative framework managed by multiple agencies. To facilitate the understanding of this legislative framework, we have developed a GISbased Estuarine Planning Support System tool. The tool integrates the requirements of the relevant legislation and provides a basis for assessing the current environmental state of an estuary as well as informing and assessing new plans to ensure a healthy estuarine state. The tool ensures that the information is easily accessible for regulators, managers, developers and the public. The tool is intended to be adaptable, but is assessed using the Humber Estuary, United Kingdom as a case study area. The successful application of the tool for complex socio-economic and environmental systems demonstrates that the tool can efficiently guide users through the complex requirements needed to support sustainable development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jemma Lonsdale
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK; Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK.
| | - Rose Nicholson
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Keith Weston
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Michael Elliott
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Andrew Birchenough
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Roxana Sühring
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wyatt KH, Griffin R, Guerry AD, Ruckelshaus M, Fogarty M, Arkema KK. Habitat risk assessment for regional ocean planning in the U.S. Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188776. [PMID: 29261672 PMCID: PMC5737885 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Coastal habitats provide important benefits to people, including habitat for species targeted by fisheries and opportunities for tourism and recreation. Yet, such human activities also can imperil these habitats and undermine the ecosystem services they provide to people. Cumulative risk assessment provides an analytical framework for synthesizing the influence of multiple stressors across habitats and decision-support for balancing human uses and ecosystem health. To explore cumulative risk to habitats in the U.S. Northeast and Mid-Atlantic Ocean Planning regions, we apply the open-source InVEST Habitat Risk Assessment model to 13 habitats and 31 stressors in an exposure-consequence framework. In doing so, we advance the science priorities of EBM and both regional planning bodies by synthesizing the wealth of available data to improve our understanding of human uses and how they affect marine resources. We find that risk to ecosystems is greatest first, along the coast, where a large number of stressors occur in close proximity and secondly, along the continental shelf, where fewer, higher consequence activities occur. Habitats at greatest risk include soft and hard-bottom nearshore areas, tidal flats, soft-bottom shelf habitat, and rocky intertidal zones-with the degree of risk varying spatially. Across all habitats, our results indicate that rising sea surface temperatures, commercial fishing, and shipping consistently and disproportionally contribute to risk. Further, our findings suggest that management in the nearshore will require simultaneously addressing the temporal and spatial overlap as well as intensity of multiple human activities and that management in the offshore requires more targeted efforts to reduce exposure from specific threats. We offer a transparent, generalizable approach to evaluating cumulative risk to multiple habitats and illustrate the spatially heterogeneous nature of impacts along the eastern Atlantic coast and the importance of spatial scale in estimating such impacts. These results offer a valuable decision-support tool by helping to constrain the decision space, focus attention on habitats and locations at the greatest risk, and highlight effect management strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine H. Wyatt
- Natural Capital Project, Stanford University c/o School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Natural Capital Project, Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Robert Griffin
- Natural Capital Project, Stanford University c/o School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Natural Capital Project, Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Anne D. Guerry
- Natural Capital Project, Stanford University c/o School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Natural Capital Project, Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Mary Ruckelshaus
- Natural Capital Project, Stanford University c/o School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Natural Capital Project, Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Michael Fogarty
- Northeast Fisheries Science Center, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Katie K. Arkema
- Natural Capital Project, Stanford University c/o School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Natural Capital Project, Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Valencia-Avellan M, Slack R, Stockdale A, Mortimer RJG. Understanding the mobilisation of metal pollution associated with historical mining in a carboniferous upland catchment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2017; 19:1061-1074. [PMID: 28752871 DOI: 10.1039/c7em00171a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Point and diffuse pollution from metal mining has led to severe environmental damage worldwide. Mine drainage is a significant problem for riverine ecosystems, it is commonly acidic (AMD), but neutral mine drainage (NMD) can also occur. A representative environment for studying metal pollution from NMD is provided by carboniferous catchments characterised by a circumneutral pH and high concentrations of carbonates, supporting the formation of secondary metal-minerals as potential sinks of metals. The present study focuses on understanding the mobility of metal pollution associated with historical mining in a carboniferous upland catchment. In the uplands of the UK, river water, sediments and spoil wastes were collected over a period of fourteen months, samples were chemically analysed to identify the main metal sources and their relationships with geological and hydrological factors. Correlation tests and principal component analysis suggest that the underlying limestone bedrock controls pH and weathering reactions. Significant metal concentrations from mining activities were measured for zinc (4.3 mg l-1), and lead (0.3 mg l-1), attributed to processes such as oxidation of mined ores (e.g. sphalerite, galena) or dissolution of precipitated secondary metal-minerals (e.g. cerussite, smithsonite). Zinc and lead mobility indicated strong dependence on biogeochemistry and hydrological conditions (e.g. pH and flow) at specific locations in the catchment. Annual loads of zinc and lead (2.9 and 0.2 tonnes per year) demonstrate a significant source of both metals to downstream river reaches. Metal pollution results in a large area of catchment having a depleted chemical status with likely effects on the aquatic ecology. This study provides an improved understanding of geological and hydrological processes controlling water chemistry, which is critical to assessing metal sources and mobilization, especially in neutral mine drainage areas.
Collapse
|
16
|
Simeonova A, Chuturkova R, Yaneva V. Seasonal dynamics of marine litter along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 119:110-118. [PMID: 28343633 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
In this study marine litter (ML) surveys were conducted in 8 beaches along the Bulgarian Black Sea coastline within 4 seasons for 2015-2016. The monitoring applied OSPAR guideline, classifying ML in eight categories and 167 types. The results exhibited predominance of artificial polymer materials - 84.3%. ML densities ranged from 0.0587±0.005 to 0.1343±0.008 n/m2, highest on the urban beaches. The seasonal dynamics of most top 10 ML showed highest quantities in summer than the other seasons, as the differences are of high statistical significance (0.001≤P≤0.05). Top 1 ML item for most of the beaches was cigarette butts and filters reaching 1008±10.58 nos. in summer and from 19±3.41 to 89±7.81 nos. during the rest of the seasons (P<0.001). For the pronounced seasonality contributed the recreational activities, increased tourist flow and the wild camping. The investigation will enrich data scarcity for Descriptor 10 "Marine litter".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Simeonova
- Department of Ecology and Environmental Protection, Technical University - Varna, 1 Studentska str., 9010 Varna, Bulgaria.
| | - Rozalina Chuturkova
- Department of Ecology and Environmental Protection, Technical University - Varna, 1 Studentska str., 9010 Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Velika Yaneva
- Department of Ecology and Environmental Protection, Technical University - Varna, 1 Studentska str., 9010 Varna, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Nesshöver C, Assmuth T, Irvine KN, Rusch GM, Waylen KA, Delbaere B, Haase D, Jones-Walters L, Keune H, Kovacs E, Krauze K, Külvik M, Rey F, van Dijk J, Vistad OI, Wilkinson ME, Wittmer H. The science, policy and practice of nature-based solutions: An interdisciplinary perspective. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 579:1215-1227. [PMID: 27919556 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.11.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Revised: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, we reflect on the implications for science, policy and practice of the recently introduced concept of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), with a focus on the European context. First, we analyse NBS in relation to similar concepts, and reflect on its relationship to sustainability as an overarching framework. From this, we derive a set of questions to be addressed and propose a general framework for how these might be addressed in NBS projects by funders, researchers, policy-makers and practitioners. We conclude that: To realise their full potential, NBS must be developed by including the experience of all relevant stakeholders such that 'solutions' contribute to achieving all dimensions of sustainability. As NBS are developed, we must also moderate the expectations placed on them since the precedent provided by other initiatives whose aim was to manage nature sustainably demonstrates that we should not expect NBS to be cheap and easy, at least not in the short-term.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carsten Nesshöver
- UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Department of Conservation Biology & UFZ Science-Policy Expert Group, Permoser Str. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; iDiv - German Centre for integrative Biodiversity Research Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Deutscher Platz 5e, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Timo Assmuth
- Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE) Environmental Policy Centre, PO Box 140, FI-00251 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Katherine N Irvine
- Social, Economic and Geographical Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, United Kingdom.
| | - Graciela M Rusch
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Terrestrial Ecology Department, PO Box 5685, Sluppen, 7485 Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Kerry A Waylen
- Social, Economic and Geographical Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, United Kingdom.
| | - Ben Delbaere
- ECNC-European Centre for Nature Conservation, PO Box 90154, 5000 LG Tilburg, The Netherlands.
| | - Dagmar Haase
- UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Department of Computational Landscape Ecology, Permoser Str. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany; Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Geography, Lab for Landscape Ecology, Rudower Chaussee 16, 12489 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Lawrence Jones-Walters
- Wageningen Environmental Research (Alterra), Wageningen UR, Wageningen Campus, PO Box 47, 6700 Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Hans Keune
- INBO & Belgian Biodiversity Platform & University of Antwerp, Kliniekstraat 25, 1070 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Eszter Kovacs
- Szent István University, Institute of Nature Conservation and Landscape Management, Páter K. u. 1., H-2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; Environmental Social Science Research Group (ESSRG), Rómer Flóris u. 38, Budapest H-1024, Hungary.
| | - Kinga Krauze
- European Regional Centre for Ecohydrology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Tylna 3, 90-364 Lodz, Poland.
| | - Mart Külvik
- Estonian University of Life Sciences, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 1, Tartu 51014, Estonia.
| | - Freddy Rey
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Irstea, UR EMGR, 2 rue de la Papeterie, BP 76, 38402 Saint-Martin-d'Hères, France.
| | - Jiska van Dijk
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Terrestrial Ecology Department, PO Box 5685, Sluppen, 7485 Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Odd Inge Vistad
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Human Dimension Department, Fakkelgarden, 2624 Lillehammer, Norway.
| | - Mark E Wilkinson
- Environmental and Biochemical Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, United Kingdom.
| | - Heidi Wittmer
- UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Department of Environmental Politics & UFZ Science-Policy Expert Group, Permoser Str. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Donhauser J. Theoretical ecology as etiological from the start. STUDIES IN HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES 2016; 60:67-76. [PMID: 27780082 DOI: 10.1016/j.shpsc.2016.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The world's leading environmental advisory institutions look to ecological theory and research as an objective guide for policy and resource management decision-making. In addition to the theoretical and broadly philosophical merits of doing so, it is therefore practically significant to clear up confusions about ecology's conceptual foundations and to clarify the basic workings of inferential methods used in the science. Through discussion of key moments in the genesis of the theoretical branch of ecology, this essay elucidates a general heuristic role of teleological metaphors in ecological research and defuses certain enduring confusions about work in ecology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin Donhauser
- Rotman Institute of Philosophy, Western University, Stevenson Hall 2150, London, ON N6A 5B8, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Boyes SJ, Elliott M, Murillas-Maza A, Papadopoulou N, Uyarra MC. Is existing legislation fit-for-purpose to achieve Good Environmental Status in European seas? MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2016; 111:18-32. [PMID: 27377000 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.06.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent additions to marine environmental legislation are usually designed to fill gaps in protection and management, build on existing practices or correct deficiencies in previous instruments. Article 13 of the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) requires Member States to develop a Programme of Measures (PoM) by 2015, to meet the objective of Good Environmental Status (GES) for their waters by 2020. This review explores key maritime-related policies with the aim to identify the opportunities and threats that they pose for the achievement of GES. It specifically examines how Member States have relied on and will integrate existing legislation and policies to implement their PoM and the potential opportunities and difficulties associated with this. Using case studies of three Member States, other external impediments to achieving GES are discussed including uses and users of the marine environment who are not governed by the MSFD, and gives recommendations for overcoming barriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne J Boyes
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies (IECS), University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK.
| | - Michael Elliott
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies (IECS), University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Arantza Murillas-Maza
- AZTI Marine Research Division, Txatxarramendi ugartea z/g Sukarrieta, Bizkaia 48395, Spain
| | - Nadia Papadopoulou
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, PO Box 2214, Heraklion, Crete 71003, Greece
| | - Maria C Uyarra
- AZTI Marine Research Division, Txatxarramendi ugartea z/g Sukarrieta, Bizkaia 48395, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
An integrated Pan-European perspective on coastal Lagoons management through a mosaic-DPSIR approach. Sci Rep 2016; 6:19400. [PMID: 26776151 PMCID: PMC4725967 DOI: 10.1038/srep19400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
A decision support framework for the management of lagoon ecosystems was tested using four European Lagoons: Ria de Aveiro (Portugal), Mar Menor (Spain), Tyligulskyi Liman (Ukraine) and Vistula Lagoon (Poland/Russia). Our aim was to formulate integrated management recommendations for European lagoons. To achieve this we followed a DPSIR (Drivers-Pressures-State Change-Impacts-Responses) approach, with focus on integrating aspects of human wellbeing, welfare and ecosystem sustainability. The most important drivers in each lagoon were identified, based on information gathered from the lagoons' stakeholders, complemented by scientific knowledge on each lagoon as seen from a land-sea perspective. The DPSIR cycles for each driver were combined into a mosaic-DPSIR conceptual model to examine the interdependency between the multiple and interacting uses of the lagoon. This framework emphasizes the common links, but also the specificities of responses to drivers and the ecosystem services provided. The information collected was used to formulate recommendations for the sustainable management of lagoons within a Pan-European context. Several common management recommendations were proposed, but specificities were also identified. The study synthesizes the present conditions for the management of lagoons, thus analysing and examining the activities that might be developed in different scenarios, scenarios which facilitate ecosystem protection without compromising future generations.
Collapse
|
21
|
Lonsdale JA, Weston K, Barnard S, Boyes SJ, Elliott M. Integrating management tools and concepts to develop an estuarine planning support system: A case study of the Humber Estuary, Eastern England. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 100:393-405. [PMID: 26342391 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/02/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Estuaries are important because of their multiple uses and users which often makes them challenging to manage since management must strike a balance between the needs of users, the estuaries' ecological and economic value and the context of multiple legislative drivers. To facilitate management we have therefore developed an Estuarine Planning Support System (EPSS) framework using the Humber Estuary, Eastern England, as a case study which integrates the current legislation tools and concepts. This integrated EPSS framework is an improvement on previous approaches for assessing cumulative impacts as it takes into account legislative drivers, management tools and other mechanisms for controlling plans/projects specific to the estuary. It therefore enables managers and users to assess and address both the current state and the way in which a new industrial, port or urban development could impact an estuary in an accessible and understandable framework.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jemma-Anne Lonsdale
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK; Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK.
| | - Keith Weston
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Steve Barnard
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Suzanne J Boyes
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Michael Elliott
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Sigamani S, Perumal M, Arumugam S, Preetha Mini Jose HM, Veeraiyan B. AMBI indices and multivariate approach to assess the ecological health of Vellar-Coleroon estuarine system undergoing various human activities. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 100:334-343. [PMID: 26323865 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Estuaries receive a considerable amount of pollutants from various sources. Presently an attempt has been made to assess whether the aquaculture discharges and dredging activities alter the ecological conditions of Vellar-Coleroon estuarine complex. The European Water Framework Directive (WFD) established a framework for the protection of marine waters. In this commission, a variety of indices were used, among them, AMBI (AZTI Marine Biotic Index) indices along with multivariate statistical approach is unique, to assess the ecological status by using macrobenthic communities. Keeping this in view, stations VE-1 and VE-4 in Vellar; CE-6 and CE-7 in Coleroon estuaries showed moderately disturbed with the AMBI values ranging between 3.45 and 3.72. The above said stations were situated near the shrimp farm discharge point and sites of dredging activities. The present study proves that various statistical and biotic indices have great potential in assessing the nature of the ecosystem undergoing various human pressures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sivaraj Sigamani
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608 502, Tamilnadu, India.
| | - Murugesan Perumal
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608 502, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Silambarasan Arumugam
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608 502, Tamilnadu, India
| | - H M Preetha Mini Jose
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608 502, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Bharathidasan Veeraiyan
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608 502, Tamilnadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Borgström S, Bodin Ö, Sandström A, Crona B. Developing an analytical framework for assessing progress toward ecosystem-based management. AMBIO 2015; 44 Suppl 3:357-69. [PMID: 26022319 PMCID: PMC4447704 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-015-0655-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Ecosystem-based management (EBM) has become a key instrument of contemporary environmental policy and practice. Given the increasingly important role of EBM, there is an urgent need for improved analytical approaches to assess if and to what extent EBM has been accomplished in any given case. Drawing on the vast literature on EBM, we identify five key ecosystem aspects for assessment. By linking these aspects to four phases of management, we develop an interdisciplinary, analytical framework that enables a high-resolution and systematic assessment of the degree of specificity and integration of ecosystem aspects in an EBM. We then apply the framework to evaluate five coastal EBM initiatives in Sweden, four on the Baltic coast and one on the west coast. Our results demonstrate our framework's usefulness for in-depth and continuous assessments of processes aiming for EBM, and also provide an empirical basis for inferences about the key challenges for successful EBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Borgström
- />Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, Kräftriket 2B, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Örjan Bodin
- />Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, Kräftriket 2B, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Beatrice Crona
- />Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, Kräftriket 2B, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Gradient-Based Assessment of Habitat Quality for Spectral Ecosystem Monitoring. REMOTE SENSING 2015. [DOI: 10.3390/rs70302871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
25
|
Garmendia L, Izagirre U, Soto M, Lermen D, Koschorreck J. Combining chemical and biological endpoints, a major challenge for twenty-first century's environmental specimen banks. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:1631-1634. [PMID: 24777326 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-2925-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Environmental specimen banks (ESBs) are not a new phenomenon, but in the last decades, the steep rate in the establishment of new ESBs is a sign to address new research approaches for scientists. In this way, environmental biobanking is becoming a well-organized and effective vehicle to collect samples of high quality making them available for future researchers. The endpoints promoted in the ESBs are mainly based on chemical approaches, but the necessity to add biological endpoint is fundamental (e.g., assessment of the environmental health status). Moreover, advances and development of high sensitive, high-throughput techniques along with ecotoxicological approaches based on biomarkers are stimulating a new demand for stored specimens and associated data. Like in chemically targeted environmental specimen banking, the banked samples for the assessment of biological effects also require guidance informed by knowledge of their practices and challenges, along with policies for the correct advancement of research goals and appropriate and effective biobank governance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larraitz Garmendia
- Research Center for Experimental Marine Biology and Biotechnology, PIE-UPV/EHU, E48620, Plentzia, Basque Country, Spain,
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Vejre H, Vesterager J, Andersen P, Olafsson A, Brandt J, Dalgaard T. Does cadastral division of area-based ecosystem services obstruct comprehensive management? Ecol Modell 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2014.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
27
|
Bradshaw C, Kapustka L, Barnthouse L, Brown J, Ciffroy P, Forbes V, Geras'kin S, Kautsky U, Bréchignac F. Using an Ecosystem Approach to complement protection schemes based on organism-level endpoints. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2014; 136:98-104. [PMID: 24929504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2014.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Radiation protection goals for ecological resources are focussed on ecological structures and functions at population-, community-, and ecosystem-levels. The current approach to radiation safety for non-human biota relies on organism-level endpoints, and as such is not aligned with the stated overarching protection goals of international agencies. Exposure to stressors can trigger non-linear changes in ecosystem structure and function that cannot be predicted from effects on individual organisms. From the ecological sciences, we know that important interactive dynamics related to such emergent properties determine the flows of goods and services in ecological systems that human societies rely upon. A previous Task Group of the IUR (International Union of Radioecology) has presented the rationale for adding an Ecosystem Approach to the suite of tools available to manage radiation safety. In this paper, we summarize the arguments for an Ecosystem Approach and identify next steps and challenges ahead pertaining to developing and implementing a practical Ecosystem Approach to complement organism-level endpoints currently used in radiation safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clare Bradshaw
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Lawrence Kapustka
- LK Consultancy, P.O. Box 373, Turner Valley, Alberta T0L 2A0, Canada.
| | | | - Justin Brown
- Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority, Grini næringspark 13, P.O. Box 55, NO-1332 Østerås, Norway.
| | - Philippe Ciffroy
- Electricité de France (EDF), Hydraulics and Environment National Laboratory, 6 quai Watier, 78400 Chatou, France.
| | - Valery Forbes
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 348 Manter Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA.
| | - Stanislav Geras'kin
- Russian Institute of Agricultural Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe shosse, 109 km, Obninsk 249020, Russian Federation.
| | - Ulrik Kautsky
- SKB, Swedish Nuclear Fuel and Waste Management Co, P.O. Box 250, 10124 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - François Bréchignac
- IRSN, Institute of Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety, Direction générale, Centre of Cadarache, Bldg 229, BP 1, 13115 St Paul-lez-Durance, France.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Boyes SJ, Elliott M. Marine legislation--the ultimate 'horrendogram': international law, European directives & national implementation. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2014; 86:39-47. [PMID: 25088540 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2014.06.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The EU is a pre-eminent player in sustainable development, adopting more than 200 pieces of legislation that have direct repercussions for marine environmental policy and management. Over five decades, measures have aimed to protect the marine environment by tackling the impact of human activities, but maritime affairs have been dealt with by separate sectoral policies without fully integrating all relevant sectors. Such compartmentalisation has resulted in a patchwork of EU legislation and resultant national legislation leading to a piecemeal approach to marine protection. These are superimposed on international obligations emanating from UN and other bodies and are presented here as complex 'horrendograms' showing the complexity across vertical governance. These horrendograms have surprised marine experts despite them acknowledging the many uses and users of the marine environment. Encouragingly since 2000, the evolution in EU policy has progressed to more holistic directives and here we give an overview of this change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne J Boyes
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies (IECS), University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK.
| | - Michael Elliott
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies (IECS), University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Sala S, Goralczyk M. Chemical footprint: a methodological framework for bridging life cycle assessment and planetary boundaries for chemical pollution. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2013; 9:623-32. [PMID: 23907984 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.1471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2013] [Revised: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The development and use of footprint methodologies for environmental assessment are increasingly important for both the scientific and political communities. Starting from the ecological footprint, developed at the beginning of the 1990s, several other footprints were defined, e.g., carbon and water footprint. These footprints-even though based on a different meaning of "footprint"-integrate life cycle thinking, and focus on some challenging environmental impacts including resource consumption, CO2 emission leading to climate change, and water consumption. However, they usually neglect relevant sources of impacts, as those related to the production and use of chemicals. This article presents and discusses the need and relevance of developing a methodology for assessing the chemical footprint, coupling a life cycle-based approach with methodologies developed in other contexts, such as ERA and sustainability science. Furthermore, different concepts underpin existing footprint and this could be the case also of chemical footprint. At least 2 different approaches and steps to chemical footprint could be envisaged, applicable at the micro- as well as at the meso- and macroscale. The first step (step 1) is related to the account of chemicals use and emissions along the life cycle of a product, sector, or entire economy, to assess potential impacts on ecosystems and human health. The second step (step 2) aims at assessing to which extent actual emission of chemicals harm the ecosystems above their capability to recover (carrying capacity of the system). The latter step might contribute to the wide discussion on planetary boundaries for chemical pollution: the thresholds that should not be surpassed to guarantee a sustainable use of chemicals from an environmental safety perspective. The definition of what the planetary boundaries for chemical pollution are and how the boundaries should be identified is an on-going scientific challenge for ecotoxicology and ecology. In this article, we present a case study at the macroscale for the European Union, in which the chemical footprint according to step 1 is calculated for the year 2005. A proposal for extending this approach toward step 2 is presented and discussed, complemented by a discussion on the challenges and the use of appropriate methodologies for assessing chemical footprints to stimulate further research and discussion on the topic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serenella Sala
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute of Environment and Sustainability, Sustainability Assessment Unit, Ispra (VA), Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bourlat SJ, Borja A, Gilbert J, Taylor MI, Davies N, Weisberg SB, Griffith JF, Lettieri T, Field D, Benzie J, Glöckner FO, Rodríguez-Ezpeleta N, Faith DP, Bean TP, Obst M. Genomics in marine monitoring: new opportunities for assessing marine health status. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2013; 74:19-31. [PMID: 23806673 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2013.05.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Accepted: 05/17/2013] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
This viewpoint paper explores the potential of genomics technology to provide accurate, rapid, and cost efficient observations of the marine environment. The use of such approaches in next generation marine monitoring programs will help achieve the goals of marine legislation implemented world-wide. Genomic methods can yield faster results from monitoring, easier and more reliable taxonomic identification, as well as quicker and better assessment of the environmental status of marine waters. A summary of genomic methods that are ready or show high potential for integration into existing monitoring programs is provided (e.g. qPCR, SNP based methods, DNA barcoding, microarrays, metagenetics, metagenomics, transcriptomics). These approaches are mapped to existing indicators and descriptors and a series of case studies is presented to assess the cost and added value of these molecular techniques in comparison with traditional monitoring systems. Finally, guidelines and recommendations are suggested for how such methods can enter marine monitoring programs in a standardized manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Bourlat
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Box 463, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Everard M, McInnes R. Systemic solutions for multi-benefit water and environmental management. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2013; 461-462:170-179. [PMID: 23727601 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2013.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Revised: 04/30/2013] [Accepted: 05/05/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The environmental and financial costs of inputs to, and unintended consequences arising from narrow consideration of outputs from, water and environmental management technologies highlight the need for low-input solutions that optimise outcomes across multiple ecosystem services. Case studies examining the inputs and outputs associated with several ecosystem-based water and environmental management technologies reveal a range from those that differ little from conventional electro-mechanical engineering techniques through methods, such as integrated constructed wetlands (ICWs), designed explicitly as low-input systems optimising ecosystem service outcomes. All techniques present opportunities for further optimisation of outputs, and hence for greater cumulative public value. We define 'systemic solutions' as "…low-input technologies using natural processes to optimise benefits across the spectrum of ecosystem services and their beneficiaries". They contribute to sustainable development by averting unintended negative impacts and optimising benefits to all ecosystem service beneficiaries, increasing net economic value. Legacy legislation addressing issues in a fragmented way, associated 'ring-fenced' budgets and established management assumptions represent obstacles to implementing 'systemic solutions'. However, flexible implementation of legacy regulations recognising their primary purpose, rather than slavish adherence to detailed sub-clauses, may achieve greater overall public benefit through optimisation of outcomes across ecosystem services. Systemic solutions are not a panacea if applied merely as 'downstream' fixes, but are part of, and a means to accelerate, broader culture change towards more sustainable practice. This necessarily entails connecting a wider network of interests in the formulation and design of mutually-beneficial systemic solutions, including for example spatial planners, engineers, regulators, managers, farming and other businesses, and researchers working on ways to quantify and optimise delivery of ecosystem services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Everard
- Faculty of Environment and Technology, University of the West of England (UWE), Coldharbour Lane, Frenchay Campus, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Mayor DJ, Gray NB, Elver-Evans J, Midwood AJ, Thornton B. Metal-macrofauna interactions determine microbial community structure and function in copper contaminated sediments. PLoS One 2013; 8:e64940. [PMID: 23741430 PMCID: PMC3669130 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0064940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 04/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Copper is essential for healthy cellular functioning, but this heavy metal quickly becomes toxic when supply exceeds demand. Marine sediments receive widespread and increasing levels of copper contamination from antifouling paints owing to the 2008 global ban of organotin-based products. The toxicity of copper will increase in the coming years as seawater pH decreases and temperature increases. We used a factorial mesocosm experiment to investigate how increasing sediment copper concentrations and the presence of a cosmopolitan bioturbating amphipod, Corophium volutator, affected a range of ecosystem functions in a soft sediment microbial community. The effects of copper on benthic nutrient release, bacterial biomass, microbial community structure and the isotopic composition of individual microbial membrane [phospholipid] fatty acids (PLFAs) all differed in the presence of C. volutator. Our data consistently demonstrate that copper contamination of global waterways will have pervasive effects on the metabolic functioning of benthic communities that cannot be predicted from copper concentrations alone; impacts will depend upon the resident macrofauna and their capacity for bioturbation. This finding poses a major challenge for those attempting to manage the impacts of copper contamination on ecosystem services, e.g. carbon and nutrient cycling, across different habitats. Our work also highlights the paucity of information on the processes that result in isotopic fractionation in natural marine microbial communities. We conclude that the assimilative capacity of benthic microbes will become progressively impaired as copper concentrations increase. These effects will, to an extent, be mitigated by the presence of bioturbating animals and possibly other processes that increase the influx of oxygenated seawater into the sediments. Our findings support the move towards an ecosystem approach for environmental management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Mayor
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Oceanlab, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Apitz SE. Ecosystem services and environmental decision making: seeking order in complexity. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2013; 9:214-230. [PMID: 23281271 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.1389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Revised: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The Ecosystem Service Paradigm (EsSP) is increasingly a component or even an underlying principle of environmental policy, legislation and management internationally. The EsSP can be used to define links between human activities and ecosystems, and ecosystems and the services that in turn support and sustain those and other activities; this information can then be used to evaluate, justify or optimize decisions. However, how EsS within various practical applications and frameworks are applied, defined, quantified, modelled, valued and communicated ranges widely, potentially hindering their roles as cross-sectoral tools. For this paradigm to be useful for cross-disciplinary integration, it is important that practitioners in different fields are clear about what is meant and assumed when terms are used, and within what context assessments are being carried out. The logic behind practical applications of the EsSP can be explained by the EsS Decision Cascade, a three-part, iterative conceptual framework. Within the decision cascade, Ecosystem Service Decision Analysis (EsSD) defines the proposed policies or actions (scenarios), and the changes/pressures under consideration in different scenarios. Within the context laid out by EsSD, Ecosystem Service Assessment (EsSA) will then evaluate how such changes affect biophysical structure, and thus ecosystem function and services; Ecosystem Service Valuation (EsSV) then takes the results from these analyses and generates valuations to inform decisions; linking back to EsSD. EsS-based evaluations can expand the current risk-focused thinking behind ecological risk assessment (ERA) to consider trade-offs between a range of desirable and undesirable responses of a variety of ecosystem endpoints; such an assessment can be termed an Ecosystem Response Assessment (EcoResA), or if applied in a spatially explicit manner, an Ecosystem Regional Assessment (EcoRegA); understanding of such trade-offs is essential to inform decisions about more sustainable remediation, regulation and management of landscapes and resources. This paper describes "taxonomies" of various aspects of EsSP applications, based upon their decision context, perspective and assessment approach. It then examines, with a focus on European issues, a range of current and emerging regulatory and management applications to which the EsSP can be applied in light of this taxonomy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabine E Apitz
- SEA Environmental Decisions, Little Hadham, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Bone J, Archer M, Barraclough D, Eggleton P, Flight D, Head M, Jones DT, Scheib C, Voulvoulis N. Public participation in soil surveys: lessons from a pilot study in England. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2012; 46:3687-3696. [PMID: 22393874 DOI: 10.1021/es203880p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
In many countries there are policies in place that impact on soils, but very few legislative or policy tools specifically for the protection of soil. Recent EU legislative proposals on soil protection have been met with opposition on the grounds of excessive cost and resource demands. With the need for evidence based policy, and recognition that involving the public in environmental monitoring is an effective way of increasing understanding and commitment, there has been growing interest in soil surveys. In addition, it is accepted that the success of environmental policies depends greatly on how effectively scientists, regulators, stakeholders, and society communicate. This paper presents the Open Air Laboratories (OPAL) Soil and Earthworm Survey as an example of public participation in soil surveys that aims to integrate the above. It is demonstrated how such surveys generate data that can be used to prioritise soil assessment, in order to address some of the concerns and objections to soil protection policies. Lessons from this pilot study in England highlight that with strategic planning of civic participation activities, this approach can deliver improvements in the quality of the evidence collected and allow for effective public involvement in policymaking and implementation, on top of direct educational benefits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Bone
- Centre for Environmental Policy, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Pascual M, Borja A, Franco J, Burdon D, Atkins JP, Elliott M. What are the costs and benefits of biodiversity recovery in a highly polluted estuary? WATER RESEARCH 2012; 46:205-217. [PMID: 22088272 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2011.10.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2011] [Revised: 10/24/2011] [Accepted: 10/24/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Biodiversity recovery measures have often been ignored when dealing with the restoration of degraded aquatic systems. Furthermore, biological valuation methods have been applied only spatially in previous studies, and not jointly on a temporal and spatial scale. The intense monitoring efforts carried out in a highly polluted estuary, in northern Spain (Nervión estuary), allowed for the economic valuation of the costs and the biological valuation of the benefits associated with a 21 years sewage scheme application. The analysis show that the total amount of money invested into the sewage scheme has contributed to the estuary's improvement of both environmental and biological features, as well as to an increase in the uses and services provided by the estuary. However, the inner and outer parts of the estuary showed different responses. An understanding of the costs and trajectories of the environmental recovery of degraded aquatic systems is increasingly necessary to allow policy makers and regulators to formulate robust, cost-efficient and feasible management decisions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Pascual
- AZTI-Tecnalia, Marine Research Division, Herrera Kaia, Portualdea s/n, 20110 Pasaia, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Bréchignac F, Bradshaw C, Carroll S, Jaworska A, Kapustka L, Monte L, Oughton D. Recommendations from the International Union of Radioecology to improve guidance on radiation protection. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2011; 7:411-413. [PMID: 21608121 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
This brief commentary summarizes the views of a working group assembled by the International Union of Radioecology to advance the approaches used to evaluate effects of radioactive materials in the environment. The key message in both the research needs and the recommendations for management of radioactive materials centers around the need to adopt an ecocentric approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of biota, including humans, and ecological processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- François Bréchignac
- International Union of Radioecology (IUR), Secretariat at Institute of Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), Centre of Cadarache, Building 229, 13115 St Paul-lez-Durance cedex, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Bréchignac F. Technology and the forces of nature: a lesson of humility calling for ecocentrism. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2011; 7:409-410. [PMID: 21608120 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The incident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, resulting from the powerful earthquake and tsunami that struck the northeastern coast of Japan in March 2011, reminds humankind of the powerful natural forces that shape our world. This article calls for a new ecocentric approach to human interaction with the environment, with particular reference to the environmental consequences of radiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francois Bréchignac
- International Union of Radioecology (IUR), Secretariat at Institute of Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), Centre of Cadarache, Building 229, 13115, St Paul-lez-Durance cedex, France.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
van Haastrecht EK, Toonen HM. Science-policy interactions in MPA site selection in the Dutch part of the North Sea. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2011; 47:656-670. [PMID: 20830474 PMCID: PMC3073170 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-010-9546-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2009] [Accepted: 08/02/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
At the 7th conference of the parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD-COP7, Kuala Lumpur, 2004) it was agreed to establish a global network of marine and coastal protected areas by 2012. The defined objectives of this MPA-network are based on the ecosystem approach: to protect biodiversity and other ecological values, and to ensure sustainable use. The (inter)national policy guidelines state that the selection of MPAs should be based on scientific information and ecological criteria only. As a signatory to the Convention, the Netherlands is now faced with meeting this obligation, and the process of designating the first Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the Dutch part of the North Sea is currently in progress. We focus on the science-policy interactions that are part of this Dutch MPA selection process. By taking a closer look at the contemporary site selection process as well as its historical background, we show that ecological, socio-economic and political considerations cannot always be easily separated. Uncertainty is high and the ultimate selection and delimitation of candidate sites rather seems to be the result of a balancing act between ecological, socio-economic and political interests, in which scientific and policy guiding procedures blend with ad-hoc political decision making, and with expert judgment in cases where data is lacking. As such, this paper presents an example of present-day environmental policy making in action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eline K. van Haastrecht
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Kloveniersburgwal 48, Amsterdam, 1012 CX Netherlands
| | - Hilde M. Toonen
- Environmental Policy Group, Wageningen University and Research Centre, Hollandseweg 1, Wageningen, 6706 KN, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Kraberg AC, Wasmund N, Vanaverbeke J, Schiedek D, Wiltshire KH, Mieszkowska N. Regime shifts in the marine environment: the scientific basis and political context. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2011; 62:7-20. [PMID: 20947101 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2010.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2010] [Revised: 09/05/2010] [Accepted: 09/06/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Regime shifts in the marine environment have recently received much attention. To date, however, few large-scale meta-analyses have been carried out due to insufficient data coverage and integration between sustained observational datasets because of diverse methodologies used in data collection, recording and archival. Here we review the available data on regime shifts globally, followed by a review of current and planned policies with relevance to regime shifts. We then focus on the North and Baltic Seas, providing examples of existing efforts for data integration in the MarBEF Network of Excellence. Existing gaps in data coverage are identified, and the added value from meta-analyses of multiple datasets demonstrated using examples from the MarBEF integrated data project LargeNet. We discuss whether these efforts are addressing current policy needs and close with recommendations for future integrated data networks to increase our ability to understand, identify and predict recent and future regime shifts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra C Kraberg
- Alfred-Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Kurpromenade 201, 27498 Helgoland, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Micheletti C, Gottardo S, Critto A, Chiarato S, Marcomini A. Environmental quality of transitional waters: the lagoon of Venice case study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2011; 37:31-41. [PMID: 20934753 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2010.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2009] [Revised: 06/21/2010] [Accepted: 06/23/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The health status of European aquatic environments, including transitional waters such as coastal lagoons, is regulated by the Water Framework Directive (WFD), which requires the classification of the water bodies' environmental quality and the achievement of a good ecological status by 2015. In the Venice lagoon, a transitional water body located in the northeastern part of Italy, the achievement of a good ecological status is hampered by several anthropogenic and natural pressures, such as sediment and water chemical contamination, and sediment erosion. In order to evaluate the lagoon's environmental quality according to the WFD (i.e. 5 quality classes, from High to Bad), an integrated Weight-of-Evidence methodology was developed and applied to classify the quality of the lagoon water bodies, integrating biological, physico-chemical, chemical, ecotoxicological, and hydromorphological data (i.e. Lines of Evidence, LOE). The quality assessment was carried out in two lagoon habitat typologies (previously defined on the basis of morphological, sediment, and hydrodynamic characteristics) which were selected taking into account the ecological gradient from sea to land, and the differences in anthropogenic pressure and contamination levels. The LOE classification was carried out by using indicators scored by comparing site specific conditions to reference conditions measured in lagoon reference sites, or provided by local, national or European regulations (e.g. Environmental Quality Standards, EQS, for chemicals). Finally, the overall quality status for each water body was calculated by a probabilistic approach, i.e. by reporting the final result as the frequency distribution of quality classes. The developed procedure was applied by using data and information concerning selected LOE and collected from monitoring programs and research studies carried out in the last 15 years in the lagoon of Venice. A set of sampling stations characterized by spatially and temporally coherent information for each LOE was selected, and among these stations, potential reference sites for each water body typology were identified. The quality assessment highlighted that there are specific lagoon areas, especially those located near the industrially developed area, which are highly affected by anthropogenic activities, and that chemical contamination is one of the main pressures affecting ecological status (e.g. macro-benthonic biodiversity) in the Venice lagoon. The integrated quality assessment procedure that was developed provided a new tool supporting decision making, as well as lagoon assessment and management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Micheletti
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Calle Larga S. Marta 2137, 30123 Venice, Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Borja A, Elliott M, Carstensen J, Heiskanen AS, van de Bund W. Marine management--towards an integrated implementation of the European Marine Strategy Framework and the Water Framework Directives. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2010; 60:2175-86. [PMID: 20965524 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2010.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2010] [Revised: 09/27/2010] [Accepted: 09/28/2010] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Through implementing environmental Directives, Europe has moved towards coordinated and integrated catchment-to-coast management, following the most novel legislation on ecosystem-based approaches worldwide. The novel joint synthesis of this direction reviewed here allows us to regard the Water Framework Directive (WFD) as a 'deconstructing structural approach' whereas the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) is a 'holistic functional approach', i.e. the WFD has split the ecosystem into several biological quality elements, then it compares the structure of these (such as species complement) individually before combining them and attempting to determine the overall condition. In contrast the MSFD concentrates on the set of 11 descriptors which together summarize the way in which the whole system functions. We emphasize that both Directives are frameworks on which many other directives are linked but that they need to be fully and seamlessly integrated to give a land to open sea system of assessment and management. Hence, by taking account of the experience gained in the WFD implementation, together with that from regional sea conventions, such as OSPAR (North East Atlantic) or HELCOM (Baltic Sea), we propose in this contribution an integrative approach for the environmental status assessment, within the MSFD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angel Borja
- AZTI-Tecnalia, Marine Research Division, Herrera Kaia, Portualdea s/n, 20110 Pasaia, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Borja A, Rodríguez JG. Problems associated with the 'one-out, all-out' principle, when using multiple ecosystem components in assessing the ecological status of marine waters. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2010; 60:1143-1146. [PMID: 20619425 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2010.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2010] [Accepted: 06/18/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
|
43
|
Brèchignac F, Doi M. Challenging the current strategy of radiological protection of the environment: arguments for an ecosystem approach. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2009; 100:1125-1134. [PMID: 19643514 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2009.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2008] [Revised: 06/10/2009] [Accepted: 06/24/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The system of radiological protection of the environment that is currently under development is one contribution to the general need to adequately protect the environment against stress. Dominated by operational goals, it emphasizes conceptual and methodological approaches that are readily accessible today: reference organisms supported by individual-based traditional ecotoxicological data. Whilst there are immediate advantages to this approach (pragmatism, consistency with other approaches in use for man and biota), there are also clear limitations, especially in a longer run perspective, that need to be acknowledged and further considered. One can mention a few: uncertainties generated by the need for various extrapolations (from lower to higher levels of biological organisation, ...), various features missed such as potential ecological impact through impairment of ecosystem processes, trans-generational impacts as mediated through genomic instability, indirect effects mediated through trophic interactions or disruption of ecological balances,... Such limitations have already been faced in other fields of environmental protection against other stressors, pushing a number of environment professionals to assign stronger emphasis on more systemic approaches. This review discusses the advantages and limitations of the current approach designed for the radiological protection of non-human biota in the broader context of environment protection as a whole, with especial reference to upcoming trends and evolutions. This leads in particular to advocating the need to boost scientific and methodological approaches featuring the ecosystem concept as a mean to access a unified goal of protection: preserving life sustainability through protection of ecosystem structure and functioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Brèchignac
- Institute for Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), Centre d'Etudes de Cadarache, 13115 Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France.
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Harrington R, McInnes R. Integrated Constructed Wetlands (ICW) for livestock wastewater management. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2009; 100:5498-5505. [PMID: 19596192 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2009.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2009] [Revised: 05/29/2009] [Accepted: 06/02/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Social, economic and environmental coherence is sought in the management of livestock wastewater. Wetlands facilitate the biogeochemical processes that exploit livestock wastewater and provide opportunities to achieve such coherence and also to deliver on a range of ecosystem services. The Integrated Constructed Wetland (ICW) concept integrates three inextricably linked objectives: water quantity and quality management, landscape-fit to improve aesthetic site values and enhanced biodiversity. The synergies derived from this explicit integration allow one of the key challenges for livestock management to be addressed. An example utilizing twelve ICW systems from a catchment on the south coast of Ireland demonstrates that over an eight year period mean reduction of total and soluble phosphorus (molybdate reactive phosphorus) exceeded 95% and the mean removal of ammonium-N exceeded 98%. This paper reviews evidence regarding the capacity of ICWs to provide a coherent and sustainable alternative to conventional systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rory Harrington
- Water and Policy Division, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Waterford, Ireland.
| | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Borja A, Bricker SB, Dauer DM, Demetriades NT, Ferreira JG, Forbes AT, Hutchings P, Jia X, Kenchington R, Carlos Marques J, Zhu C. Overview of integrative tools and methods in assessing ecological integrity in estuarine and coastal systems worldwide. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2008; 56:1519-37. [PMID: 18715596 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2008.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2008] [Revised: 06/15/2008] [Accepted: 07/06/2008] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, several sets of legislation worldwide (Oceans Act in USA, Australia or Canada; Water Framework Directive or Marine Strategy in Europe, National Water Act in South Africa, etc.) have been developed in order to address ecological quality or integrity, within estuarine and coastal systems. Most such legislation seeks to define quality in an integrative way, by using several biological elements, together with physico-chemical and pollution elements. Such an approach allows assessment of ecological status at the ecosystem level ('ecosystem approach' or 'holistic approach' methodologies), rather than at species level (e.g. mussel biomonitoring or Mussel Watch) or just at chemical level (i.e. quality objectives) alone. Increasing attention has been paid to the development of tools for different physico-chemical or biological (phytoplankton, zooplankton, benthos, algae, phanerogams, fishes) elements of the ecosystems. However, few methodologies integrate all the elements into a single evaluation of a water body. The need for such integrative tools to assess ecosystem quality is very important, both from a scientific and stakeholder point of view. Politicians and managers need information from simple and pragmatic, but scientifically sound methodologies, in order to show to society the evolution of a zone (estuary, coastal area, etc.), taking into account human pressures or recovery processes. These approaches include: (i) multidisciplinarity, inherent in the teams involved in their implementation; (ii) integration of biotic and abiotic factors; (iii) accurate and validated methods in determining ecological integrity; and (iv) adequate indicators to follow the evolution of the monitored ecosystems. While some countries increasingly use the establishment of marine parks to conserve marine biodiversity and ecological integrity, there is awareness (e.g. in Australia) that conservation and management of marine ecosystems cannot be restricted to Marine Protected Areas but must include areas outside such reserves. This contribution reviews the current situation of integrative ecological assessment worldwide, by presenting several examples from each of the continents: Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe and North America.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angel Borja
- AZTI-Tecnalia, Marine Research Division, Herrera Kaia, Pasaia, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Mee LD, Jefferson RL, Laffoley DD, Elliott M. How good is good? Human values and Europe's proposed Marine Strategy Directive. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2008; 56:187-204. [PMID: 18036545 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2007.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2007] [Accepted: 09/19/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The adoption of the proposed European Marine Strategy Directive is an opportunity for a comprehensive policy for protecting, improving and sustainably using Europe's environmentally degraded seas. It calls for an ecosystem-based approach to management where humans are regarded as a key system component. Although the proposed wording has been the subject of fierce debate, the central policy goal remains achieving "Good Environmental Status". The interpretation of "good" is key to implementation and relates to human values and worldviews. We demonstrate how these vary widely across Europe. Solution of fundamental considerations such as the assignation of reference states, the balance between precautionary and evidence-based action, the degree of subsidiarity, and conservation strategies including marine protected areas, will ultimately depend upon public understanding, involvement in and support for the Directive. The social element, critical to effective adaptive management, requires greater attention within the context of a regional seas geographical framework.
Collapse
|
47
|
Atkins JP, Burdon D, Allen JH. An application of contingent valuation and decision tree analysis to water quality improvements. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2007; 55:591-602. [PMID: 17945312 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2007.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
This paper applies contingent valuation and decision tree analysis to investigate public preferences for water quality improvements, and in particular reduced eutrophication. Such preferences are important given that the development of EU water quality legislation is imposing significant costs on European economies. Results are reported of a survey undertaken of residents of Arhus County, Denmark for water quality improvements in the Randers Fjord. Results demonstrate strong public support for reduced eutrophication and identify key determinants of such support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan P Atkins
- Centre for Economic Policy, The Business School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Seager TP, Lambert JH, Gardner KH. Fostering innovation in contaminated sediments management through multicriteria technology assessment and public participation. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2007; 27:1043-1052. [PMID: 17958510 DOI: 10.1111/j.1539-6924.2007.00942.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Management of contaminated sediments is problematic and costly. Several new technologies are under development that may in some cases reduce costs and environmental or ecological impacts. However, there are significant barriers to implementing new technologies, including the increased management complexity, the potential for introducing antagonistic or incommensurate objectives that are unfamiliar to stakeholders or regulators, and the difficulty of capturing private, commercial benefits from environmental improvements that may primarily benefit the public. This article identifies several innovative contaminated sediments technologies, discusses the difficulty of proving or quantifying the benefits of new technologies, and presents an agenda for research that would foster partnerships between scientific, government, and public communities of interest for the purpose of improving innovative technology assessment and environmental decision making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T P Seager
- Sustainability Institute, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY 14623, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Elliott M, Quintino V. The Estuarine Quality Paradox, Environmental Homeostasis and the difficulty of detecting anthropogenic stress in naturally stressed areas. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2007; 54:640-5. [PMID: 17418874 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2007.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Estuaries have long been regarded as environmentally naturally stressed areas because of the high degree of variability in their physico-chemical characteristics, for example oxygen, temperature and salinity in the water column and bed sediment dynamics. However, their biota is well-adapted to cope with that stress and so the areas may be regarded as resilient because of that inherent variability; their ability to absorb stress without adverse effects is regarded here as Environmental Homeostasis. Hence these areas may only be regarded as stressful for marine or freshwater-adapted organisms and that for estuarine organisms this environmental stress is regarded as a subsidy whereby they successfully capitalise on the stressful conditions. In addition, using examples of the estuarine fauna and flora, this article indicates that the characteristics of natural stress in estuaries are similar to those for anthropogenic stress. An over-reliance on ecosystem structural features, such as diversity, in quality indicators therefore makes the detection of the anthropogenic stress more difficult. This difficulty is termed the Estuarine Quality Paradox. Because of these difficulties, the article argues that functional characteristics either as well as or rather than structural ones should be used in detecting environmental perturbations in estuaries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Elliott
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies, University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Elliott M, Boyes SJ, Burdon D. Integrated marine management and administration for an island state-the case for a new Marine Agency for the UK. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2006; 52:469-74. [PMID: 16678211 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2006.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
|