This document outlines a proposed monitoring program to assess the impacts of a sewage outfall in Noosa, Queensland, Australia. The program would monitor water quality, sensitive environments, and stakeholder perceptions. Key indicators would include dissolved oxygen, nutrients, turbidity, bacteria levels, and socioeconomic data on industries like tourism and fishing. A pilot study is recommended to determine sampling locations, frequency, and methodology. Quality assurance procedures and statistical analysis would ensure reliable data to inform management decisions regarding the sewage outfall operations over time.
IRJET- Hydrogeochemistry and Environmental Implication of Periyar River S...IRJET Journal
This document summarizes a study on the hydrogeochemistry and environmental implications of the Periyar River in southern Western Ghats, India after severe flooding in 2018. The study analyzed water and soil samples from different areas in the Periyar River basin to understand changes caused by the flood. Water samples were tested for various chemical parameters and compared to WHO and BIS standards. Soil samples were analyzed to determine Loss on Ignition (LOI) and composition through X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). The results provide insight into the current water quality and soil composition/properties in the river basin following major flooding.
Climate Change Impacts on the Goals of the New York-New Jersey Harbor Estuary...Sabrina Ramkhelawan
This document summarizes a report submitted to the New York-New Jersey Harbor Estuary Program (HEP) that analyzes how climate change may impact the goals of HEP's 2011-2015 Action Plan. The report was produced by students at Barnard College. It first outlines HEP's five main goals: clean up pollution; improve habitat and ecology; increase public access; support an economically viable port; and increase public education. It then identifies four key climate stressors - increasing temperature, precipitation, sea level, and extreme weather. Much of the report analyzes how each goal may be vulnerable to these stressors, such as higher pollution from more extreme rainfall, changes in habitats from rising seas and temperatures, and threats to the
This document discusses a study that evaluated the impact of changing land use/land cover (LULC) on the hydrological processes in the Dal lake catchment in Kashmir Himalayas from 1992 to 2005. Satellite data and a hydrological model were used to analyze LULC changes over time, identify factors contributing to changes, and simulate the effects on runoff, erosion, and sedimentation. The results showed that decreased vegetation cover and increased impervious surfaces due to human activities led to greater runoff, erosion, and sediment discharge, disrupting the lake ecosystem.
The document provides an overview of the 6-step Watershed Condition Framework (WCF) process used by the U.S. Forest Service to assess and improve watershed health. Step 1 involves classifying watershed condition based on 12 indicators related to aquatic and terrestrial processes. Forest specialists score each indicator's attributes to determine an overall watershed condition class of 1 (properly functioning), 2 (functioning at risk), or 3 (impaired function). Step 2 prioritizes watersheds for restoration based on considerations like impaired waters. Steps 3-6 involve developing and implementing watershed action plans, tracking accomplishments, and monitoring effectiveness.
This research makes use of the remote sensing, simulation modeling and field observations to assess the non-point source pollution load of a Himalayan lake from its catchment.
Environmental systems are complex arrangements of interacting biological, physical, chemical, social and economic components within the Earth's environment. They can include systems like the atmosphere, oceans, and populations of plants and animals. Models are used to study environmental systems and can take various forms from simple empirical models to complex process-based models. Environmental systems generally have four main features - they involve complex nonlinear interactions; their characteristics vary greatly over spatial and temporal scales; these scales are often incompatible between components; and many processes are unobservable. The key types of environmental systems are hydrological, ecological and climatic systems.
Environmental modeling and environmental impact assessments finalSanjay Singh
The document discusses environmental impact assessments and modeling in the hydrocarbon industry, providing definitions and guidelines for assessing impacts, and examines case studies of projects in Russia, Peru, Mozambique, and Alaska that required extensive environmental review and mitigation due to operating in sensitive ecosystems.
IRJET- Hydrogeochemistry and Environmental Implication of Periyar River S...IRJET Journal
This document summarizes a study on the hydrogeochemistry and environmental implications of the Periyar River in southern Western Ghats, India after severe flooding in 2018. The study analyzed water and soil samples from different areas in the Periyar River basin to understand changes caused by the flood. Water samples were tested for various chemical parameters and compared to WHO and BIS standards. Soil samples were analyzed to determine Loss on Ignition (LOI) and composition through X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). The results provide insight into the current water quality and soil composition/properties in the river basin following major flooding.
Climate Change Impacts on the Goals of the New York-New Jersey Harbor Estuary...Sabrina Ramkhelawan
This document summarizes a report submitted to the New York-New Jersey Harbor Estuary Program (HEP) that analyzes how climate change may impact the goals of HEP's 2011-2015 Action Plan. The report was produced by students at Barnard College. It first outlines HEP's five main goals: clean up pollution; improve habitat and ecology; increase public access; support an economically viable port; and increase public education. It then identifies four key climate stressors - increasing temperature, precipitation, sea level, and extreme weather. Much of the report analyzes how each goal may be vulnerable to these stressors, such as higher pollution from more extreme rainfall, changes in habitats from rising seas and temperatures, and threats to the
This document discusses a study that evaluated the impact of changing land use/land cover (LULC) on the hydrological processes in the Dal lake catchment in Kashmir Himalayas from 1992 to 2005. Satellite data and a hydrological model were used to analyze LULC changes over time, identify factors contributing to changes, and simulate the effects on runoff, erosion, and sedimentation. The results showed that decreased vegetation cover and increased impervious surfaces due to human activities led to greater runoff, erosion, and sediment discharge, disrupting the lake ecosystem.
The document provides an overview of the 6-step Watershed Condition Framework (WCF) process used by the U.S. Forest Service to assess and improve watershed health. Step 1 involves classifying watershed condition based on 12 indicators related to aquatic and terrestrial processes. Forest specialists score each indicator's attributes to determine an overall watershed condition class of 1 (properly functioning), 2 (functioning at risk), or 3 (impaired function). Step 2 prioritizes watersheds for restoration based on considerations like impaired waters. Steps 3-6 involve developing and implementing watershed action plans, tracking accomplishments, and monitoring effectiveness.
This research makes use of the remote sensing, simulation modeling and field observations to assess the non-point source pollution load of a Himalayan lake from its catchment.
Environmental systems are complex arrangements of interacting biological, physical, chemical, social and economic components within the Earth's environment. They can include systems like the atmosphere, oceans, and populations of plants and animals. Models are used to study environmental systems and can take various forms from simple empirical models to complex process-based models. Environmental systems generally have four main features - they involve complex nonlinear interactions; their characteristics vary greatly over spatial and temporal scales; these scales are often incompatible between components; and many processes are unobservable. The key types of environmental systems are hydrological, ecological and climatic systems.
Environmental modeling and environmental impact assessments finalSanjay Singh
The document discusses environmental impact assessments and modeling in the hydrocarbon industry, providing definitions and guidelines for assessing impacts, and examines case studies of projects in Russia, Peru, Mozambique, and Alaska that required extensive environmental review and mitigation due to operating in sensitive ecosystems.
This document summarizes a study of coastal zone management in Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu, India using remote sensing and GIS techniques. The study analyzed shoreline changes between 1971 and 2012. The results showed alternating periods of erosion and accretion across the study area. The northern region experienced land loss from 1971-1991 followed by erosion after 1991. The central region accreted from 1971-1991 then eroded after 1991. The southern region was dominated by erosion, except after the 2004 tsunami when deposition occurred. Overall, erosion activities were higher than accretion across the study area over the 41-year period.
This document summarizes the key issues around allocating environmental water requirements for Lake Urmia in Iran using an ecohydrological approach. It discusses how declining water levels in the lake due to human and climatic factors have led to a national outcry. A multi-stakeholder process was established to allocate water among the three provinces sharing the lake basin. After 21 months of discussions, a water allocation decision was reached for the first time based on stakeholder involvement and transparency. However, technical uncertainties remained an issue during the process. Further analysis of ethical and cultural perspectives was recommended to better inform water allocation decisions.
This document summarizes a study on the biogeochemistry of dissolved nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic carbon along terrestrial-aquatic flowpaths in a montane headwater catchment in the Peruvian Amazon. The study investigated spatial and temporal variations in nutrient concentrations from upland soils to streams under baseflow and stormflow conditions. Key findings include: 1) During baseflow, strong terrestrial controls maintained relatively constant nitrate levels in streams compared to more variable upland soils; 2) Dissolved organic nitrogen dominated stream nitrogen despite decreasing concentrations from uplands; 3) Phosphorus concentrations showed the inverse pattern, with higher levels in streams than uplands. 4) Stoichiometric ratios contrasted between uplands and streams
The Impact of the Utilization of Riparian Area for Settlements (Case Study of...Suwandi, Dr. SE.,MSi
The limitedness of area and plot of land in Jayapura City which are allocated for settlements has become a problem in Jayapura city. Population growth and high-rate of urbanization are impacted on the utilization of land which is not in accordance with its allocation. The modification of riparian area on the right and left sides of the river for settlements has reduced the function of the river, because in addition to river conservation, river has a double role as the securer of water source and as the protector of its surrounding area. Therefore, riparian area becomes more important to be considered. The riparian area in settlement area is assumed to be adequate for a 10-15 meters inspection road to be built on. The real condition of the rivers in North Jayapura District of Jayapura City, compared to the criteria of riparian area for settlement area, has not been inappropriate. The river’s function as the protector of its surrounding area has gone astray. If there is someday a flood, the impact may cause material damage or even life victims.
Hernández-Terrones et al. (2010) Groundwater pollution in a karstic region (...Emiliano Monroy Ríos
This document summarizes a study on groundwater pollution in a karstic region along the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Water samples were collected from wells, mangroves, beaches, submarine springs, the reef lagoon, and open sea to analyze nutrient levels and trace the flow between environments. High nitrate and coliform bacteria indicated groundwater pollution spreading to coastal ecosystems. Nitrogen flux to the lagoon through groundwater was estimated at 2.4 tons per km per year, and phosphorus at 75-217 kg per km per year, evidencing the need for integrated management of aquifers and coastal areas.
The document discusses Esri's Ocean GIS Initiative which aims to expand the company's capabilities for mapping and analyzing ocean data. The initiative will focus on areas like research and exploration, ecosystems, fisheries management, and coastal protection. It highlights several existing projects including the Ocean Basemap, SeaSketch tool, Ocean Health Index, and ArcGIS for Maritime and Ocean Use Planning portals. The overall goals are to grow ocean mapping tools and data, engage more with ocean science partners, and support coastal and marine spatial planning.
The International Journal of Engineering and Science (The IJES)theijes
The International Journal of Engineering & Science is aimed at providing a platform for researchers, engineers, scientists, or educators to publish their original research results, to exchange new ideas, to disseminate information in innovative designs, engineering experiences and technological skills. It is also the Journal's objective to promote engineering and technology education. All papers submitted to the Journal will be blind peer-reviewed. Only original articles will be published.
The papers for publication in The International Journal of Engineering& Science are selected through rigorous peer reviews to ensure originality, timeliness, relevance, and readability.
A watershed is the area of land that drains into a body of water such as a river or lake. Watershed management involves implementing land and water practices to protect water quality and other natural resources within the watershed. The key steps in watershed management planning are to familiarize yourself with the watershed boundaries and resources, build local partnerships among stakeholders, and determine priorities for action to reduce pollution and address environmental issues.
This document provides an introduction and overview of an Ecosystem Diagnostic Analysis (EDA) conducted along a transect from Bernau to Eberswalde in northeastern Germany. The EDA analyzed three plots along the transect to observe the modification from a closed beech forest to an open agricultural landscape with increasing human influence. The document describes the methodology of the EDA and provides detailed findings and analyses from each of the three plots, including Bernau, Biesenthal-Sydower Fliess, and Eberswalde. Key activities like urbanization, agriculture, and land use change over time are discussed as major drivers of landscape and ecosystem changes in the region.
This document analyzes two watersheds in Rhode Island - Bailey's Brook and Maidford River - that drain into drinking water reservoirs. The author identifies "critical management zones" with high risk of pollutant runoff through geospatial analysis. High risk land uses like agriculture and dense development are identified. Hydrologically sensitive areas are mapped based on soil wetness, runoff curve number, and topography. These areas have high potential for generating overland runoff. By overlapping high risk land uses and hydrologic runoff areas, the author locates critical zones for targeting water quality improvements. Maps and data are produced to assist managers in strategic restoration.
A Review of Environmental Implications of Dredging ActivitiesIJAEMSJORNAL
Dredging is a global anthropogenic excavation activity of removing sediments from water bodies and depositing it elsewhere. It is a mixed blessing as it has both beneficial and adverse impacts. This paper is on a review of environmental implications of dredging. The objective of the paper is to review previous works by researchers on the environmental consequences of dredging. The method used is a review of academic/journal articles, internet materials, conference / workshop papers, textbooks, bulletins and publicly available materials on dredging activities. The results of the study revealed that previous authors whose works were reviewed have a convergent view that apart from the beneficial impacts of dredging (e.g. keeping waterways navigable, flood and storm protection and provision of materials for road construction and building), it has lots of adverse environmental impacts, including environmental pollution, erosion, widespread hydrological changes, reduction in the population of aquatic lives like destruction of fish spawning grounds and benthic organisms and resuspension of particulate matter column that has elevated levels of lead, copper, zinc and nickel in Phytoplankton. Recommendations of the study include: (1) establishment of environmental legislations and regulations for dredging operation; (2) use of green technology in dredging activities to minimize suspension of sediments and contamination/pollution of dredging environments; and (3) creation of awareness among dredging contractors, regulators and marine communities where dredging take place on the economic and ecological values of the marine ecosystems that are usually very sensitive, fragile and productive.
This document summarizes a study on the impacts of land use change and climate change on the aquatic ecosystem of Mobile Bay in Alabama. The study used watershed and hydrodynamic models to analyze how increased urbanization and climate change could affect river outflows, water quality parameters like temperature and salinity, and submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) in the bay. The models project increased runoff and decreased outflows from watersheds with more urban development compared to natural areas. Climate change is also expected to decrease precipitation and increase temperatures, further impacting outflows. Changes in flows, sediment loads, temperature and salinity could stress SAV communities in Mobile Bay that provide important habitat. The goal is to understand these stressors to
6. ESIA Training Myanmar: Offshore oil and gas – Key biodiversity risks and m...Ethical Sector
On 19/20 March, two biodiversity, business and human rights events were organised by MCRB in Yangon: a multistakeholder consultation on the draft Briefing Paper, and a training session conducted by a number of international experts on biodiversity and environmental impact assessment (EIA) for around 70 representatives from companies, particularly EIA consultancies.
Read more: http://www.myanmar-responsiblebusiness.org/news/reinforcing-connections.html
Abstract of 'Health Effects of Western Region Illegal Gold Mining':
The presentation concerns:
1. A discussion of conclusions drawn on ground- and surface-
water statistical analysis in the Western Region of Ghana,
since 2010.
The analysis concerns Heavy Metals (HM), as by-product of
gold-mining industries: small-mining (so-called Galamsey)
and large-mining.
2. A survey of the health-effects, available medical investi-
gations and therapy of HM poisoning by polluted water.
Because Mercury, Arsenic and Lead were the main focus
of statistical analysis in the Western Region, the health-
effects of those metals were central in the discussions.
3. The conclusion of the study, with recommendations,
comprising:
a. Transparency in mining practices;
b. Institution of Water-Watch-Groups as representatives
of stakeholders;
c. Replacement of the assigned inspectors;
d. Elimination of Arsenic in waste-water at source;
e. Reduction of all other toxic Heavy Metals in mining-
waste-waters;
f. Urgent update to recent scientific standards;
g. Bring polluters & perpetrators to justice through Fast-
track procedures;
h. The President may take the initiatives mentioned in
the Ghana Constitution, Part II Emergency Powers
Art. 31;
i. Assign Pollution research to an independent
Research-institute, preferably an institute from a non-
ex-colonial country;
j. Introduce, as soon as possible, law-enforced non-
toxic gold-extraction methods;
4. In the Way Forward are mentioned:
a. Mercury suppliers in Ghana and an example of
Mining-Industry with a dubious mission;
b. 3 Examples of Toxic-free chemical Gold-Extraction
Methods;
c. 2 Examples of Chemical-free Gold-Extraction
Methods;
d. concluding: recommended methods for Small- and
Large-gold-mining Industries;
Research Question
• Background
• Biscayne Bay Ecosystem
• Urban Seawater Floodwater
• Field Survey (October 2, 2015)
• Risks to the Biscayne Bay Ecosystem
Bibliography
This document provides an overview of the scope and objectives of a course on watershed and integrated watershed management. The course aims to discuss various technical, social, ecological and environmental aspects of watershed development and management. It will focus on watershed modeling and analyzing complex water management issues. The course modules will cover topics such as introduction to watershed concepts, sustainable watershed practices, integrated watershed management, water quality management, and water conservation. The course will be useful for students, teachers, NGOs and field engineers.
This document discusses water quality issues in Ireland and solutions to address them. National water quality monitoring data shows 47% of rivers and 62% of estuaries are in unsatisfactory condition. The two most widespread problems are excess nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus), with phosphorus and sediment issues impacting 60% of waters needing measures. Maps have been created to identify critical source areas for phosphorus and nitrogen losses from agriculture to target remediation efforts. Measures proposed include riparian buffers, wetlands, and nutrient management plans to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus at their sources and intercept transport pathways.
The document summarizes findings from an environmental study of the Lancang-Mekong Development Plan (LMDP) and the proposed Pak Beng dam project. Key findings include changes to hydrology and sediment flows due to Chinese dams, impacts to aquatic ecology, and identification of environmentally sensitive areas. The study recommends establishing a network of conservation areas along the Mekong River to help mitigate impacts from proposed developments. Specific mitigation strategies are provided for each of three zones studied.
This document is a research paper submitted for a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. It discusses applying an ecological infrastructure planning approach to the Angat River basin watershed in the Philippines. The paper aims to: 1) identify ecological processes affecting landscape planning in watersheds; 2) provide an understanding of ecological infrastructure design approaches; and 3) contribute to integrating these principles into local planning processes for the Angat River Basin watershed. Specifically, it examines how ecological infrastructure planning can address existing ecological risks and sustainability issues in the Angat River basin.
1) The document discusses the ecological impact of sewage discharge on coral reefs. Sewage pollution introduces excess nutrients into coral reef ecosystems, which can cause eutrophication and algal overgrowth that damages corals.
2) A 3-year study found that doubling nutrient levels from sewage led to a doubling of coral bleaching events in Florida Keys reefs. Removing the nutrient pollution allowed for reef recovery.
3) About 96% of coral reef areas near human populations face sewage pollution problems. The majority of sewage in developing areas enters the ocean untreated. Even in developed nations, aging infrastructure can lead to sewage leaks that pollute coastal waters.
Assessment on the Ecosystem Service Functions of Nansi Lake in ChinaIJERA Editor
The assessment of ecosystem service functions is one of the focused area in modern ecological and
environmental research. As a typical shallow macrophytic lake in China, Nansi Lake is selected as the study
area. Based the indicator system and assessment models established in this research, the ecosystem service
functions of Nansi Lake are assessed. The results show that the ecosystem service function of drinking water
source area/aquatic product supply/ecological habitat/entertainment and landscape/ water purification function of
the lakeside zone for Nansi Lake is assessed as medium (2.2)/good (3.5)/medium (3)/medium (2.55)/medium (3),
and the overall ecosystem service function of Nansi Lake can be considered as ―Medium‖. The eutrophication
control and ecological restoration of lakeside wetland need to be enhanced in the future.
FY 2013 R&D REPORT January 6 2014 - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administ...Lyle Birkey
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) conducts $331 million in environmental research and development annually. This research is conducted through NOAA's Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) and its seven laboratories across the US. OAR research addresses climate, weather, oceans, coasts, and atmospheric chemistry to improve NOAA products and services. Specific areas of research include hurricanes, severe storms, air quality, ocean acidification, fisheries, and coastal and marine ecosystem science.
This document summarizes a study of coastal zone management in Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu, India using remote sensing and GIS techniques. The study analyzed shoreline changes between 1971 and 2012. The results showed alternating periods of erosion and accretion across the study area. The northern region experienced land loss from 1971-1991 followed by erosion after 1991. The central region accreted from 1971-1991 then eroded after 1991. The southern region was dominated by erosion, except after the 2004 tsunami when deposition occurred. Overall, erosion activities were higher than accretion across the study area over the 41-year period.
This document summarizes the key issues around allocating environmental water requirements for Lake Urmia in Iran using an ecohydrological approach. It discusses how declining water levels in the lake due to human and climatic factors have led to a national outcry. A multi-stakeholder process was established to allocate water among the three provinces sharing the lake basin. After 21 months of discussions, a water allocation decision was reached for the first time based on stakeholder involvement and transparency. However, technical uncertainties remained an issue during the process. Further analysis of ethical and cultural perspectives was recommended to better inform water allocation decisions.
This document summarizes a study on the biogeochemistry of dissolved nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic carbon along terrestrial-aquatic flowpaths in a montane headwater catchment in the Peruvian Amazon. The study investigated spatial and temporal variations in nutrient concentrations from upland soils to streams under baseflow and stormflow conditions. Key findings include: 1) During baseflow, strong terrestrial controls maintained relatively constant nitrate levels in streams compared to more variable upland soils; 2) Dissolved organic nitrogen dominated stream nitrogen despite decreasing concentrations from uplands; 3) Phosphorus concentrations showed the inverse pattern, with higher levels in streams than uplands. 4) Stoichiometric ratios contrasted between uplands and streams
The Impact of the Utilization of Riparian Area for Settlements (Case Study of...Suwandi, Dr. SE.,MSi
The limitedness of area and plot of land in Jayapura City which are allocated for settlements has become a problem in Jayapura city. Population growth and high-rate of urbanization are impacted on the utilization of land which is not in accordance with its allocation. The modification of riparian area on the right and left sides of the river for settlements has reduced the function of the river, because in addition to river conservation, river has a double role as the securer of water source and as the protector of its surrounding area. Therefore, riparian area becomes more important to be considered. The riparian area in settlement area is assumed to be adequate for a 10-15 meters inspection road to be built on. The real condition of the rivers in North Jayapura District of Jayapura City, compared to the criteria of riparian area for settlement area, has not been inappropriate. The river’s function as the protector of its surrounding area has gone astray. If there is someday a flood, the impact may cause material damage or even life victims.
Hernández-Terrones et al. (2010) Groundwater pollution in a karstic region (...Emiliano Monroy Ríos
This document summarizes a study on groundwater pollution in a karstic region along the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Water samples were collected from wells, mangroves, beaches, submarine springs, the reef lagoon, and open sea to analyze nutrient levels and trace the flow between environments. High nitrate and coliform bacteria indicated groundwater pollution spreading to coastal ecosystems. Nitrogen flux to the lagoon through groundwater was estimated at 2.4 tons per km per year, and phosphorus at 75-217 kg per km per year, evidencing the need for integrated management of aquifers and coastal areas.
The document discusses Esri's Ocean GIS Initiative which aims to expand the company's capabilities for mapping and analyzing ocean data. The initiative will focus on areas like research and exploration, ecosystems, fisheries management, and coastal protection. It highlights several existing projects including the Ocean Basemap, SeaSketch tool, Ocean Health Index, and ArcGIS for Maritime and Ocean Use Planning portals. The overall goals are to grow ocean mapping tools and data, engage more with ocean science partners, and support coastal and marine spatial planning.
The International Journal of Engineering and Science (The IJES)theijes
The International Journal of Engineering & Science is aimed at providing a platform for researchers, engineers, scientists, or educators to publish their original research results, to exchange new ideas, to disseminate information in innovative designs, engineering experiences and technological skills. It is also the Journal's objective to promote engineering and technology education. All papers submitted to the Journal will be blind peer-reviewed. Only original articles will be published.
The papers for publication in The International Journal of Engineering& Science are selected through rigorous peer reviews to ensure originality, timeliness, relevance, and readability.
A watershed is the area of land that drains into a body of water such as a river or lake. Watershed management involves implementing land and water practices to protect water quality and other natural resources within the watershed. The key steps in watershed management planning are to familiarize yourself with the watershed boundaries and resources, build local partnerships among stakeholders, and determine priorities for action to reduce pollution and address environmental issues.
This document provides an introduction and overview of an Ecosystem Diagnostic Analysis (EDA) conducted along a transect from Bernau to Eberswalde in northeastern Germany. The EDA analyzed three plots along the transect to observe the modification from a closed beech forest to an open agricultural landscape with increasing human influence. The document describes the methodology of the EDA and provides detailed findings and analyses from each of the three plots, including Bernau, Biesenthal-Sydower Fliess, and Eberswalde. Key activities like urbanization, agriculture, and land use change over time are discussed as major drivers of landscape and ecosystem changes in the region.
This document analyzes two watersheds in Rhode Island - Bailey's Brook and Maidford River - that drain into drinking water reservoirs. The author identifies "critical management zones" with high risk of pollutant runoff through geospatial analysis. High risk land uses like agriculture and dense development are identified. Hydrologically sensitive areas are mapped based on soil wetness, runoff curve number, and topography. These areas have high potential for generating overland runoff. By overlapping high risk land uses and hydrologic runoff areas, the author locates critical zones for targeting water quality improvements. Maps and data are produced to assist managers in strategic restoration.
A Review of Environmental Implications of Dredging ActivitiesIJAEMSJORNAL
Dredging is a global anthropogenic excavation activity of removing sediments from water bodies and depositing it elsewhere. It is a mixed blessing as it has both beneficial and adverse impacts. This paper is on a review of environmental implications of dredging. The objective of the paper is to review previous works by researchers on the environmental consequences of dredging. The method used is a review of academic/journal articles, internet materials, conference / workshop papers, textbooks, bulletins and publicly available materials on dredging activities. The results of the study revealed that previous authors whose works were reviewed have a convergent view that apart from the beneficial impacts of dredging (e.g. keeping waterways navigable, flood and storm protection and provision of materials for road construction and building), it has lots of adverse environmental impacts, including environmental pollution, erosion, widespread hydrological changes, reduction in the population of aquatic lives like destruction of fish spawning grounds and benthic organisms and resuspension of particulate matter column that has elevated levels of lead, copper, zinc and nickel in Phytoplankton. Recommendations of the study include: (1) establishment of environmental legislations and regulations for dredging operation; (2) use of green technology in dredging activities to minimize suspension of sediments and contamination/pollution of dredging environments; and (3) creation of awareness among dredging contractors, regulators and marine communities where dredging take place on the economic and ecological values of the marine ecosystems that are usually very sensitive, fragile and productive.
This document summarizes a study on the impacts of land use change and climate change on the aquatic ecosystem of Mobile Bay in Alabama. The study used watershed and hydrodynamic models to analyze how increased urbanization and climate change could affect river outflows, water quality parameters like temperature and salinity, and submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) in the bay. The models project increased runoff and decreased outflows from watersheds with more urban development compared to natural areas. Climate change is also expected to decrease precipitation and increase temperatures, further impacting outflows. Changes in flows, sediment loads, temperature and salinity could stress SAV communities in Mobile Bay that provide important habitat. The goal is to understand these stressors to
6. ESIA Training Myanmar: Offshore oil and gas – Key biodiversity risks and m...Ethical Sector
On 19/20 March, two biodiversity, business and human rights events were organised by MCRB in Yangon: a multistakeholder consultation on the draft Briefing Paper, and a training session conducted by a number of international experts on biodiversity and environmental impact assessment (EIA) for around 70 representatives from companies, particularly EIA consultancies.
Read more: http://www.myanmar-responsiblebusiness.org/news/reinforcing-connections.html
Abstract of 'Health Effects of Western Region Illegal Gold Mining':
The presentation concerns:
1. A discussion of conclusions drawn on ground- and surface-
water statistical analysis in the Western Region of Ghana,
since 2010.
The analysis concerns Heavy Metals (HM), as by-product of
gold-mining industries: small-mining (so-called Galamsey)
and large-mining.
2. A survey of the health-effects, available medical investi-
gations and therapy of HM poisoning by polluted water.
Because Mercury, Arsenic and Lead were the main focus
of statistical analysis in the Western Region, the health-
effects of those metals were central in the discussions.
3. The conclusion of the study, with recommendations,
comprising:
a. Transparency in mining practices;
b. Institution of Water-Watch-Groups as representatives
of stakeholders;
c. Replacement of the assigned inspectors;
d. Elimination of Arsenic in waste-water at source;
e. Reduction of all other toxic Heavy Metals in mining-
waste-waters;
f. Urgent update to recent scientific standards;
g. Bring polluters & perpetrators to justice through Fast-
track procedures;
h. The President may take the initiatives mentioned in
the Ghana Constitution, Part II Emergency Powers
Art. 31;
i. Assign Pollution research to an independent
Research-institute, preferably an institute from a non-
ex-colonial country;
j. Introduce, as soon as possible, law-enforced non-
toxic gold-extraction methods;
4. In the Way Forward are mentioned:
a. Mercury suppliers in Ghana and an example of
Mining-Industry with a dubious mission;
b. 3 Examples of Toxic-free chemical Gold-Extraction
Methods;
c. 2 Examples of Chemical-free Gold-Extraction
Methods;
d. concluding: recommended methods for Small- and
Large-gold-mining Industries;
Research Question
• Background
• Biscayne Bay Ecosystem
• Urban Seawater Floodwater
• Field Survey (October 2, 2015)
• Risks to the Biscayne Bay Ecosystem
Bibliography
This document provides an overview of the scope and objectives of a course on watershed and integrated watershed management. The course aims to discuss various technical, social, ecological and environmental aspects of watershed development and management. It will focus on watershed modeling and analyzing complex water management issues. The course modules will cover topics such as introduction to watershed concepts, sustainable watershed practices, integrated watershed management, water quality management, and water conservation. The course will be useful for students, teachers, NGOs and field engineers.
This document discusses water quality issues in Ireland and solutions to address them. National water quality monitoring data shows 47% of rivers and 62% of estuaries are in unsatisfactory condition. The two most widespread problems are excess nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus), with phosphorus and sediment issues impacting 60% of waters needing measures. Maps have been created to identify critical source areas for phosphorus and nitrogen losses from agriculture to target remediation efforts. Measures proposed include riparian buffers, wetlands, and nutrient management plans to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus at their sources and intercept transport pathways.
The document summarizes findings from an environmental study of the Lancang-Mekong Development Plan (LMDP) and the proposed Pak Beng dam project. Key findings include changes to hydrology and sediment flows due to Chinese dams, impacts to aquatic ecology, and identification of environmentally sensitive areas. The study recommends establishing a network of conservation areas along the Mekong River to help mitigate impacts from proposed developments. Specific mitigation strategies are provided for each of three zones studied.
This document is a research paper submitted for a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. It discusses applying an ecological infrastructure planning approach to the Angat River basin watershed in the Philippines. The paper aims to: 1) identify ecological processes affecting landscape planning in watersheds; 2) provide an understanding of ecological infrastructure design approaches; and 3) contribute to integrating these principles into local planning processes for the Angat River Basin watershed. Specifically, it examines how ecological infrastructure planning can address existing ecological risks and sustainability issues in the Angat River basin.
1) The document discusses the ecological impact of sewage discharge on coral reefs. Sewage pollution introduces excess nutrients into coral reef ecosystems, which can cause eutrophication and algal overgrowth that damages corals.
2) A 3-year study found that doubling nutrient levels from sewage led to a doubling of coral bleaching events in Florida Keys reefs. Removing the nutrient pollution allowed for reef recovery.
3) About 96% of coral reef areas near human populations face sewage pollution problems. The majority of sewage in developing areas enters the ocean untreated. Even in developed nations, aging infrastructure can lead to sewage leaks that pollute coastal waters.
Assessment on the Ecosystem Service Functions of Nansi Lake in ChinaIJERA Editor
The assessment of ecosystem service functions is one of the focused area in modern ecological and
environmental research. As a typical shallow macrophytic lake in China, Nansi Lake is selected as the study
area. Based the indicator system and assessment models established in this research, the ecosystem service
functions of Nansi Lake are assessed. The results show that the ecosystem service function of drinking water
source area/aquatic product supply/ecological habitat/entertainment and landscape/ water purification function of
the lakeside zone for Nansi Lake is assessed as medium (2.2)/good (3.5)/medium (3)/medium (2.55)/medium (3),
and the overall ecosystem service function of Nansi Lake can be considered as ―Medium‖. The eutrophication
control and ecological restoration of lakeside wetland need to be enhanced in the future.
FY 2013 R&D REPORT January 6 2014 - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administ...Lyle Birkey
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) conducts $331 million in environmental research and development annually. This research is conducted through NOAA's Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) and its seven laboratories across the US. OAR research addresses climate, weather, oceans, coasts, and atmospheric chemistry to improve NOAA products and services. Specific areas of research include hurricanes, severe storms, air quality, ocean acidification, fisheries, and coastal and marine ecosystem science.
MAB-IHP Regional Symposium: Managing Water Resources in Biosphere Reserves in...UNESCO Venice Office
Antoni Mas, International Center for the Mediterranean Biosphere Reserves, Assessing the effects of Global Change on ecological water quality of Mediterranean river basins, Spain
Venice, 16-17 December 2021
Overall responsibility for the views and opinions expressed in the slides is taken by the authors
This paper provides a review of the scientific principles underlying environmental monitoring of marine aquaculture operations. It discusses the rationale for monitoring, including assessing environmental status against a control or reference area. The paper also addresses links between monitoring and regulatory criteria, the role of best practices/environmental management, and concludes with recommendations for a focused approach to monitoring that can be applied flexibly across different locations, species and situations.
Established the Environmental Monitoring Program Indicators to Prevent Diseas...CrimsonpublishersCJMI
Established the Environmental Monitoring Program Indicators to Prevent Disease Infection and Promote Sustainable Development by Yi-Che Shih in Cohesive Journal of Microbiology & Infectious Disease
This document outlines the objectives and activities of the EUWI+East project, which aims to improve water resource management in Eastern Partnership countries. The project will work towards harmonizing policies with the EU Water Framework Directive and Integrated Water Resource Management principles. It will focus on three key result areas: improving legal frameworks; designing and implementing river basin management plans; and knowledge sharing. The project will work in the Alazani and Iori river basins in Georgia, partnering with local authorities and agencies. It involves characterizing the river basins, assessing pressures and risks, identifying protected areas, and economic analyses to inform the development of river basin management plans and measures to achieve project objectives.
This document provides a summary of the State-of-Rivers report on the Diep, Hout Bay, Lourens, and Palmiet river systems in South Africa from 2003. It finds that while these rivers play an important role in providing water and supporting ecosystems, human activities like water abstraction, development, and pollution have negatively impacted their health. The report was a collaborative effort between various government and scientific organizations to monitor and assess river health, identify issues, and inform management responses to improve conditions and ensure sustainable use of these important water resources.
Sevda Özdemiroğlu-Contaminated Sediments Metal Removal and Stabilization by C...Sevda ÖZDEMİROĞLU
This document reviews approaches and techniques for remediating aquatic sediments contaminated with metals, including chemical and biotechnological processes. Conventional management strategies for contaminated sediments like landfill disposal and dumping at sea are unsustainable due to problems with contaminant transport, uncertainties about long-term stability, limited capacity, and environmental impacts. Alternative treatment approaches that allow reuse of sediments are encouraged but still limited. The document provides an overview of treatment strategies for removing or stabilizing metals in contaminated sediments and discusses the need for more sustainable and cost-effective large-scale techniques to enable sediment reuse.
NZCA submission on Next steps for fresh water April 2016Mark Christensen
The New Zealand Conservation Authority (NZCA) is submitting comments on the "Next Steps for Fresh Water" consultation document. Some key points made in the NZCA's submission include:
1) The NZCA supports developing new water quality attributes to address all effects on aquatic ecosystems, and applying attributes to estuaries and coastal lakes.
2) Many current water quality standards are inadequate and should be more ambitious to improve degraded water quality over the long term.
3) The NZCA supports using macroinvertebrate community index as a new attribute but standards should align with ANZEEC guidelines to ensure ecosystem health.
4) Exceptions for significant infrastructure like hydroelectricity should not be
This document summarizes a student project presentation on assessing stormwater runoff quality in Nakuru City, Kenya. The student, Murigi Peter Njoroge, studied pollutant levels in runoff from the market, garage, and industrial areas of Nakuru. Methods like atomic absorption spectrometry and chemical oxygen demand tests were used to measure total suspended solids, total phosphorus, chemical oxygen demand, lead, zinc, and other parameters. Results showed high levels of these pollutants in stormwater runoff. The project aims to determine pollutant concentrations and recommend management practices to the municipal council, based on deviations from effluent standards.
10. Impacts of climate change on aquaculture and fisheries in the Mekong regionLittle Daisy
This document outlines a proposed project to address climate change adaptation needs in aquaculture and inland fisheries in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. The project would have 4 main components: 1) conducting vulnerability assessments and risk mapping, 2) developing and piloting adaptation measures using an ecosystem approach, 3) building adaptive capacity, and 4) monitoring and evaluation. The overall objective is to strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity of rural communities dependent on aquaculture and fisheries in the face of climate change risks. Key activities would include research, developing management plans, strengthening government and community capacity, and mainstreaming adaptation into policies. The project aims to support sustainable development and food security in vulnerable communities.
Ecosystem Services and Perception of Water Quality of Lake Barombi Kotto, Cam...ijtsrd
This study carried out in BarombiKotto was aimed at assessing ecosystem services provided by Lake BarombiKotto and its riparian vegetation and to determine the level of awareness of this community to threats to degradation of water quality and riparian vegetation. Two hundred semi structured questionnaires were administered to the inhabitants of BarombiKotto village using the purposive sampling method. The Likert rating method was used to derive quantitative data that was further analysed using SPSS version 17. Results revealed that, respondents depended on the lake and vegetation for the provision of water for drinking, domestic purposes, irrigation, transport, recreational and cultural activities and also on forest benefits like wood for fuel, construction and medicinal plants. Significant associations were found between age group, level of education and respondentsawareness about the threats to water quality and sustainable practices. Agriculture, harvest of wood for construction, high fishing rates, increasing abundance of aquatic weeds were identified as major threats to Lake BarombiKotto and its surrounding vegetation. Water quality attributes like reduced transparency, lake depth, and other parameters such as aquatic weeds and fish stocks have changed in Lake BarombiKotto. The absence of conventional waste management facilities in BarombiKotto community and poor sanitary conditions of toilets could be responsible for the contamination of this lake and hence the high prevalence of typhoid, dysentery and other gastrointestinal infections among respondents. Awo Miranda Egbe | Beatrice Ambo Fonge | Pascal Tabi Tabot ""Ecosystem Services and Perception of Water Quality of Lake Barombi Kotto, Cameroon"" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-3 , April 2019, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd23529.pdf
Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/biological-science/ecology/23529/ecosystem-services-and-perception-of-water-quality-of-lake-barombi-kotto-cameroon/awo-miranda-egbe
Ecosystem Services and Perception of Water Quality of Lake Barombi Kotto, Cam...ijtsrd
This study carried out in BarombiKotto was aimed at assessing ecosystem services provided by Lake BarombiKotto and its riparian vegetation and to determine the level of awareness of this community to threats to degradation of water quality and riparian vegetation. Two hundred semi structured questionnaires were administered to the inhabitants of BarombiKotto village using the purposive sampling method. The Likert rating method was used to derive quantitative data that was further analysed using SPSS version 17. Results revealed that, respondents depended on the lake and vegetation for the provision of water for drinking, domestic purposes, irrigation, transport, recreational and cultural activities and also on forest benefits like wood for fuel, construction and medicinal plants. Significant associations were found between age group, level of education and respondentsawareness about the threats to water quality and sustainable practices. Agriculture, harvest of wood for construction, high fishing rates, increasing abundance of aquatic weeds were identified as major threats to Lake BarombiKotto and its surrounding vegetation. Water quality attributes like reduced transparency, lake depth, and other parameters such as aquatic weeds and fish stocks have changed in Lake BarombiKotto. The absence of conventional waste management facilities in BarombiKotto community and poor sanitary conditions of toilets could be responsible for the contamination of this lake and hence the high prevalence of typhoid, dysentery and other gastrointestinal infections among respondents. Awo Miranda Egbe | Beatrice Ambo Fonge | Pascal Tabi Tabot ""Ecosystem Services and Perception of Water Quality of Lake Barombi Kotto, Cameroon"" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-3 , April 2019, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd23529.pdf
Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/biological-science/ecology/23529/ecosystem-services-and-perception-of-water-quality-of-lake-barombi-kotto-cameroon/awo-miranda-egbe
Stakeholders’ Perception of Fish Decline in the Lagos Lagoon and Effects of S...BRNSS Publication Hub
Lagos Lagoon provides a number of important ecosystem services that include fish supply for the indigenous
fishing communities of Ilajes and Ijaws. The Lagoon is also a sink for pollutants from various point sources,
including sawmilling activities at the Okobaba hub of the lagoon. The perception of stakeholders about the
environmental risks of these anthropogenic activities is important considerations for sustainable management
of this important coastal ecosystem. Organic pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
are priority pollutants that are associated with anthropogenic activities including the burning of wastes. The
early life stages of fish species are useful bioindicators of pollutant effects for environmental risk assessments.
This study investigated stakeholders’ environmental risks perception of the sawmilling activities on the
Lagos Lagoon. Furthermore, physicochemical parameters and 16 priority PAHs were assessed in surface
water, porewater, and sediment from the study area on the Lagos Lagoon. Further, the embryotoxic effects
of crude and cleaned up sediment organics and porewater extracts on the African sharptooth catfish (Clarias
gariepinus) embryos were evaluated. Most (70–93%) respondents observed fish declines, burn wastes on
the bank of the lagoon and are aware of the environmental and human health risks of their activities. High
molecular weight PAHs dominated the PAHs profile, especially in the sediment. Developmental abnormalities
and decreased hatching success were observed in C. gariepinus embryos exposed to extracts from the test
site compared to the controls though non-significant (P > 0.05). The results show the environmental risks
of sawmill activities on the Lagos Lagoon. There is a need for targeted environmental management and
stakeholders’ engagement to forestall further coastal degradation and promote sustainable fisheries in the
lagoon in support of the UN sustainable development goal three (life below water).
Climate Change Adaptation and Integrated Water Resource Management in the Wat...IRJET Journal
This document summarizes a research paper that examines the impacts of climate change adaptation and integrated water resource management on water use and sustainability in Monrovia, Liberia. It finds that while Liberia has abundant water resources, implementation of integrated water resource management has faced challenges and Liberia scores the lowest in implementation status compared to other West African nations. There has also been little progress in designing a national climate change adaptation plan for the water sector. The document reviews Liberia's water resources, integrated water management efforts, the link between climate change and water resources, and limitations of current climate prediction models.
This document discusses water resources management challenges posed by population growth, urbanization, land use changes, environmental degradation, and climate change. It emphasizes an integrated approach to water resources management (IWRM) involving all stakeholders. IWRM follows the river basin concept and promotes multi-stakeholder participation and cooperation between government agencies, civil society, and the private sector to balance competing water demands. The document outlines frameworks and principles for adaptive water resources planning and management in the face of these drivers of change.
This document discusses the intersection of water quality policy and the use of benthic macroinvertebrates as indicators of water quality. It provides an overview of the Clean Water Act framework for identifying impaired waters and reducing pollution. It describes how macroinvertebrates are currently used and could potentially be used to list impaired waters, identify causes of impairment, set pollution reduction goals, and indicate water quality improvements. The document serves to illuminate opportunities and limitations for using macroinvertebrates in water quality assessment and management for both policymakers and scientists.
1. Introduction
A monitoring program is an essential toolto consider
whenimplementing an adaptive environmental management (AEM).It provides
data that can assess and evaluate the outcomes of managementdecisions
and subsequentlymake the AEM more effective over time, beyond other
benefits.
This project aims to design an adaptive monitoring program to assess
the sewage outfall processes and its impacts on the environmentand
stakeholders with the objective of provide effective information to
management board in order to direct decisions to sustainability.
It is projected to take into consideration new conditions and questions
that may arise in the future without compromising the trustworthiness of the
data record. ”(Lindenmayer 2011)
Heading & Situation
The hypothetical situation studied in this project is in regards to a
sewage outfall operation located in Noosa, Southeastern Queensland.
The operation of the plant reckon with the prior treatment of sewage
before disposal in the ocean. Furthermore, the plant considers discharge
periodicity in order to ensure that the sewage is being released only when the
tide is coming out.
However, according to the hypothetical briefing, the sewage outfall
project also forecast a population growth of approximately 3% per year over
the next 13 years. This consideration affects directly the storing capacity of
the treated water before it can be discharged.
Background
Noosa is situatedamong severalareas with ecological importancesuch
as national parks, wetlands and lakes. In these areas there aremangroves
and seagrass along the Noosa river besides some important endangered
species, both animal and plants(Noosa Community Environment Trust 2012).
It is also close to Great Sandy straight, considered a wetland
internationally important, protected under The Environment Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC 1999)
Among the 89 Australian bioregions, the southeastern Queensland
bioregion has greater than 50% of threatened ecosystems (NLWRA 2002b).
Therefore Noosa is a place with unique ecosystems’ characteristics
and its preservation must be considered seriously.
Noosa’s community is engaged with the preservation of the
environment and its sustainability through Noosa’s council and private
organizations that provide different programs to teach the community how to
preserve the environment (ARIES 2007; Noosa Biosphere 2009). They aim
2. toachieve a sustainable interaction with the environment.
Noosa region, which includes Noosa Heads, Noosaville, Tewantin,
Peregian and Sunshine beach, has approximately 38,000 habitants and it will
grow an average of 3% annually in the next years (Office of Economic and
Statistical Research 2011; SunROC 2004).
However, during the holiday peak season, Noosa population increases
to approximately 15000 visitors per year (Noosa Biosphere 2009).
The preservation of the environment is a key concern for the local
government and community not only because of the ecological value of the
region but also in regards to its economic stability and cultural values.
The core industries in Noosa are Property and Business, Retail,
Construction, Accommodation, Cafes and Restaurants (Noosa Business
Survey 2004).These industries represent more than 50% of Noosa economy
and they are narrowlylinked to tourism and related industries.
In regards to the legislation, there are numerousregulations from
Commonwealth, Queensland state and Sunshine City council, that the
monitoring program must be in compliance with.
The local environment is managed and preserved under the Coastal
Protection and Management Act 1995, which describes policies for managing
and protecting coastal resources (EDO, 2010).
Also, the Queensland’s Environment Protection Act,which is mainly
concerned with pollution, aims to achieve ecological sustainable development
in Queensland (Environment Protection Act, 2004).
It empowers the Department of Environment & Heritage to formulate
Environmental Protection Policies (EPPs) and additionally determines tools,
as the South East Queensland Natural Resource Management Plan which
sets numerous environmental targets which must be achieved by 2031
(DERM 2009).
As Noosa region is both important for leisure and tourism, not only the
quality of the water, but also its appearance is a significant characteristic to
consider.
Approach and Methodology
The first steps are defining questions and identify targets that will
underpin the monitoring program. The main questions are related to what
impacts the sewage outfall will cause in the environment and to the
stakeholders, what is the extension and probability of these impacts and what
are the targets and what needs to be monitored.
The objectives of the monitoring program are to be in conformity with
the Australian legislation, respect stakeholder interests and be sustainable.
For this reason, the monitoring program output must provide the necessary
information to decision makers as well as stakeholders.
3. Therefore it is indispensable to define the baseline conditions, which
are the current characteristics of the region based on background information
given. A clear baseline condition is important because it defines the initial
state of the environment and community to be used as a parameter during the
examination of the data collected during the monitoring program.
When establishing the baseline it is fundamental to analyze long-term
trends in water quality conditions in order to comprehend natural cycles and
the influence of factors not related to the sewage but can influence the water
quality results.(Macdonald, 2009)
Nowadays, the Noosa river is classified as B, good in quality and
Noosa catchment is classified as A-, as shown in Health Waterways report
card . Moreover, it is possible to obtain water quality indicators from the last
ten years (Hunter 2009).
Subsequently, a review of environment factors (REF) has been
established in order to list and weigh the impacts that the sewage outfall may
cause, it analyses the likely environmental consequences of the impacts. This
tool was chosen since its application is straightforward and fast, even though
the REF does not analyze impacts in depth (Appendix I).
The main issues related to the operation of the sewage outfall were
essentially surveyed in the literature and they are described in the following
paragraphs. (NSW Department of Commerce 2003; Armstrong 1996; Ed
Parnell 2003; McLean 1991; Otway 1996; Fagan 1992)
The rawsewage receives primary treatment at the plant and
subsequentlyis released in the marine ecosystems.Since the area of the
discharge is close to the river mouth, the timing of the discharge can
represent a risk of pollution spread since the sewage plume can be
transported up river depending on the tide and currentand other physical
elements as wind.
In order to evaluate the direct impactsof sewage’s release on the
environment, it is necessary to understand the quality and composition of the
effluent after the treatment process.
The sewage effluentcontains nutrients as nitrogen and phosphorous,
pathogens and occasionally toxic substances can also be encountered in
samples.
Theenlargement of inorganic chemicals nutrients such as phosphorous
and nitrogen in the water can stimulate growth of algae and consequently
cause eutrophication. This event results in aloss of oxygen due to plant
decomposition and also modifies the water turbidity.
4. The consequences are possible damage in sensitive environments as
seagrass (which can be found in Noosa river) by impeding the penetration of
light(Prepas 2003), extermination of species that depend on oxygen and
aesthetic deterioration as consequence of suspended particles and odor.
Likewise, the organic matter released in the ocean consumes part of
the oxygen available in the ecosystems, which represents a risk to some
sensitive species, which depend on oxygen to survive.
The contamination of beach bathing waters with fecal matter, which is
the source of organisms responsible for waterborne diseases,impacts public
health.
Furthermore, sewage can contain heavy metals and persistent organic
pollutants that bioaccumulate throughout the trophic chainand can cause
chronic effects to human health with long period contact at lower
concentrations of these components.
In regard the socioeconomic risks, the decline of water quality can
leads to weakening in tourism and other related industries, since the main
attractions in Noosa are the beaches. Also, fisheries industry can be affected
by the water quality andin thelong-term the consequences can lead to an
economic downturn.
The Noosa community considers the beach extremely significant for
their social life as they useit as a place for leisure and/or sports activities. It is
part of their local culture. Therefore the sewage outfall can also have a social
impact.
If the Noosa river is affected by pollution it can affect the land use
which is represented by horticulture irrigation, residential and rural use.
The selection of the indicators was done based on the REF analysis in
view of the probability of the risk to occur. According to the REF table, the
indicators must monitor the water quality, instabilities in the sensitive
environments, the dispersion of the sewage and stakeholders perceptions.
(appendix)
The indicators can be divided in three main groups: Chemicophysical,
Biological and Socioeconomic, and some of them must be chosen due to
government guidelines(National Water Quality Management Strategy;
Queensland Water Quality Guidelines 2009). They are the following:
Dissolved oxygen
Electrical conductivity: to evaluate the degree of salinity
Nitrogenand it compounds which include nitrate, nitrite and
ammonia.
Phosphorus
pH
5. Turbidity
Water temperature
Chlorophyll a
Biochemical oxygen demand
The chemical and physical indicatorslisted above can analyze the load
of nutrients that is being released and measure the impacts related to it.
However, they only describe the water situation during a short period of time.
It is an instantaneous measure that represents a lack of at least one indicator
to measure the cumulative impacts caused during a certain period of time
after the commissioning of the sewage outfall.
For this type of analysis, a biological indicator,such asbenthic
invertebrate and macro invertebrates, is usually preferred because despite of
the moderate toleration to stress in the environment, they are sensitive to
disturbances and they have limit mobility (Bioindicators: Using Organisms to
Measure Environmental Impactsn.d.) that helps identifying the location where
they were in contact with pollutants.
Bioindicatorscan provide information about the existence of toxic
elements as heavy metals and provide bioaccumulation taxa and additionally
it is possible to correlate the amount of organic matter with the increase of the
benthic invertebrate population(Cardoso 2007).
Even though the costs of biological monitoring are higher compared to
chemico-physical monitoring, examining the biota is the only method wherein
is possible to obtain reliable information about the ecosystems health over
time. Taking into account the value of the ecosystem in Noosa and the
necessity to preserve it, this analysis must be used.
Another fundamental biological indicator is the bacteria Escherichia
Coli that is inexpensive to analyze and can determine the presence of
pathogens organisms in the water. E. Coli analysis is necessary due to the
risk of contamination in bathing beaches which can affect the population’s
health (NHMRC 2003).
The correlation of indicators can make the monitoring program more
effective as there are other aspects in the environment that can influence the
indicators results such as stormwater that usually increase turbidity, bacteria
levels and nutrients parameters.
Likewise, if a correlation between indicators is considered, a low-priced
indicator can be measured more times and in case of anoutlier result, another
more specific indicator can be used. For instance, the E coli bacteria is related
to turbidity, therefore E. coli test must be taken only if the turbidity test has a
favorable result (Mossa 2006).
In regard socioeconomic indicators, it is necessary to obtain data about
the performance of thepotentially affected industries in the region (fisheries
and tourism) as well as health data.
6. The establishment of a social program that can work directly with the
fisheries in order to gather information that can measure the overall impact of
the outfall commissioning. It is also possible to get some information from the
Queensland government at the department of agriculture, fisheries and
forestry which can provide commercial and recreational fishing data.
After defining indicators, a pilot study must be implemented in order to
ascertain the frequency, timing, and location of the sample collection, as well
as to answer some issues that the REF process could not analyze.
There are questions in regards to how the indicators may work in this
specific environment, how the ecosystems are interconnected and what are
the impacts that one affected ecosystem can cause on other ecosystem.
Additionally, there is no certainty in regard to how many tourists opt to
visit Noosa exclusively because of the beach and therefore, it is not clear the
extension of the impact in this industry. In this case, a survey is necessary to
clarify the impacts on tourism providing quantitative information that can also
be applied in a cost benefit analysis.
The pilot study basically consists in data collection from previous
oceanographic studies, water quality measurements required by law,
indicators and cost analysis.
In Noosa area, there is a monitoring program to analyze water quality,
the results of these program can be easily found at the Waterways Scientific
Services website which is a branch of the Queensland Environmental
Protection Agency and used as reference.
The physical characteristics of the area is important as a way to
estimate the locomotion of the sewage plume and consequently define
sample locations. Information about current, tides and wind can be found at
several sources such as Australian government bureau of methodology and
Integrated marine observing system.
The oceanographic data can be analyzed by running models that takes
into account local currents and tides, so that is possible to define a secure
time to release the sewage and the amount to release it. Modeling of the tides
and current can predict with a certain confidence how the behavior of the
sewage discharged is in different conditions. Additionally, with this tool it is
possible to study the consequences of the population growth over a certain
period.
Knowing the plume dispersion, it is possibleto select the sampling
locations. At this time, it is important to define control locations, as they are
relatively close to the discharge area but at the same time they are not
impacted by the sewage(Scanes 1995). Therefore, the results obtained from
these locations can be compared to affected areas in order to better analyze
the impact of the outfall.
It is required short-term water-quality investigations with smaller
7. intervals in order to be able to analyze correctly the information gathered, to
avail some trends and define a sampling frequency more effectively
(MacDonald 2009).
Therefore, statistical analysis is necessary because they help the
definition of quantity of samples that are necessary to the monitoring program
taking into account the level of confidence desired by the management and
stakeholders. They also can identify trends in sampling results (Clark 2010).
Regarding the community as a stakeholder, a social program can build
an online website with the objective of establishing communication with the
community to inform about results and activities that it is being implementing.
Additionally it can bea way for the community to contribute with the monitoring
program by giving information in regards unusual aesthetics parameters as
water color and odor or even to inform an increase of gastroenteritis cases in
the area.
After designing the methodology, an appropriate cost benefit analysis
must be prepared because the determination of sampling frequency is linked
to the funding available.
The cost benefit analysis must consider the cost of each sampling
locations, the number of samples per each location, sampling analysis,
transportation, staff and the cost of data management and reporting.
Amethod to reduce the cost of sampling is work in partnership
with local council monitoring programs or any other private program as long
as the quality and confidence can be assured. It is also a form to establish
connections with stakeholders.
Some of the research suggested should be applied frequently with the
objective of identify new issues and understand the development of
stakeholders interests and hence improve the monitoring program approach.
In order to ensure the quality and representativeness of the samples it
is essential to establish a QA/QC (Quality assurance/Quality control) program
that contains guidelines and methodologies.
It is necessary to use a certified laboratory to make sure that all QA/QC
related to sample analysis have been done and to estipulate an easy
methodology for samples so that the sampling procedures can be performed
by non-technical people.
The use of control sites is also an appropriate method to compare the
data gathered with results from the background conditions at the same time of
the other sampling. Control sites can also attest any source of contamination
during the manipulation/treatment of the samples that can invalidate the entire
analysis.
Statistical studies also play an important role in regard to the quality
and confidence of the results. This analysis can assure the result with a
determined standard deviation.
8. The quality must be assured at the data reporting and management
process by using checklists and regularly investigating the whole process of
data acquisition and management. Significantly, any nonconformity of the
quality control procedures must be documented and reported to stakeholders
in order to support the interpretation of data.
Management & Knowledge Targets
All the information gathered must be inputted in a database, and the
first step of data management is a review and auditing to ensure that the data
available is reliable. It’s necessaryto determine whether the data is in
accordance with the stakeholders’ necessity as well as it can identify lacksof
information and motivate new research and management queries (Effective
Ecological Monitoring 2010).
Afterwards, the key information such as status of the water quality in
each location, presence of indicators that are not in compliance with
legislation, and socio-economic analysis must be assembled and correctly
designed to be easy understandable as most of the stakeholders are not
technical professionals.
The essential data can be provided with graphs and other visual
information that straightforwardly compare the results achieved with the
established goals.
As referred before, these information can be available to stakeholders
in form of report cards and fact sheets and delivered through website which
can also propose online surveys with the objective of collecting information
about the stakeholders and identify some possible improvements. For
instance, how to show results in a simpler and more effective manner.
Limits and Potential Refinements
To achieve the sustainability and maintain the program sustainable it is
important to keep in mind that the final design of the monitoring program is not
static and it must change over time in order to adapted to new environment
circumstances and stakeholders needs.
Strenuous statistical examination and a conceptual thinking that
ecosystems and its monitoring target components may vary over time must
support the adaptive monitoring program concept.
Therefore, pilot studies should be constantly studied as they can clarify
changes that are occurring in the environment and bring more questions and
issues not supposed previously that reinforces the importance of frequently
study the monitoring program itself.
9. References
Armstrong, I, Higham, S, Hudson, G & Colley, T 1996, 'The beachwatch
pollution monitoring programme: Changing priorities to recognize changed
circumstances ', Marine Pollution Bulletin, vol. 33, no. 7-12, pp. 249
<last_page> 259.
Australian Research Institute in Education for Sustainability (ARIES) 2007,
Sustainability in Noosa: A living change case study, Retrieved from:
http://aries.mq.edu.au/projects/noosa/files/Noosa.pdf
Bioindicators: Using organisms to measure environmental impacts | learn
science at scitableviewed 10/15/2012,
<http://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/bioindicators-using-
organisms-to-measure-environmental-impacts-16821310>.
Cardoso, PG, Bankovic, M, Raffaelli, D &Pardal, MA 2007, 'Polychaete
assemblages as indicators of habitat recovery in a temperate estuary under
eutrophication ', Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, vol. 71, no. 1-2, pp.
301 <last_page> 308
Clark, MJR, MacDonald, DD, Whitfield, PH & Wong, MP 2010, 'Designing
monitoring programs for water quality based on experience in canada II.
characterization of problems and data-quality objectives ', TrAC Trends in
Analytical Chemistry, vol. 29, no. 5, pp. 385 <last_page> 398.
Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM) 2009.South
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12. Appendix I – Evaluate the likely significance of potential impacts on the
environment
Potential
Potential Significance Potential
Significance Considering the Significance
IMPACTS considering the level of Adverse Considering
extent of Impacts on the Nature of
impacts Environmentally Impacts
Sensitive Areas
Physical & Pollution
Air Impact Low Low Low
Water Impacts High High Low
Soil Impacts - - -
Noise and Vibration
Impacts - - -
Biological
Fauna High High High
Flora High High High
Ecological High High High
Resource Use
Community Response High Low Medium
Natural Resourses High Low Low
Community
Social Impacts High Low Low
Economic Impacts High Low Medium
Heritage, aesthetic, cultural
Impacts Medium Low Low
Land Use Impacts High Low Low
Transportation Impacts - - -
Activity as a Role High Low Medium