Chapter 12 Deep-Ocean Dumping of Industrial Wastes

Abstract

Publisher Summary The objective of ocean dumping research is to establish the statistical definition of the natural variation, both spatial and temporal, against which monitoring could then determine deviations or trends from the norm. This chapter discusses the three technical objectives of ocean dumping research: (1) waste characterization to determine the most important constituents of the wastes and the way they interact and mix with seawater; this involves both laboratory and field studies, (2) waste dynamics to determine the physical movement and dispersion of the wastes after they are dumped, and (3) biological effects to observe and measure, when possible, biological effects in the field—this was generally attempted in conjunction with a direct observation of a waste dump—and to determine acute and chronic effects in the laboratory and relate these findings to potential effects in the field. The deep-water sites investigated to date are referred to as “106-mile” Deep-Water dump site (DWD-106) and the Puerto Rico dump site. Biological studies at DWD-106 site have centered on planktonic organisms: bacteria, phytoplankton, and zooplankton. The rationale is that the critical component of the marine ecosystem that could most likely suffer from the practice of dumping in the deep ocean is those planktonic organisms that occupy surface layers. Free swimming organisms can encounter plumes but unless they are particularly attracted to it, their exposure should be brief.