Recent technical and scientific initiatives for the management of the adriatic sea problems

Abstract

The main eutrophication-related phenomena in the Adriatic Sea such as phytoplankton blooms, anoxia, macroalgae proliferation, gel production and toxic algae are briefly presented. A cost-benefit evaluation of different phosphorus control strategies for the recovery of the northern Adriatic coastal waters is summarized. The ongoing and planned activities considered by the Italian Authorities are illustrated. They include the definition of a research programme and an operative research project (responsibility of the Ministry for the Scientific Research and University) and the development of the Master Plan (responsibility of the Ministry of the Environment) to provide decision makers with a sound information to implement policies for the restoration of the marine ecosystem. The general objectives of the research programme are: a) to maximize effectiveness of the research efforts aiming to be consistent with real needs, b) to eliminate unnecessary programmes; c) to ensure optimal use of existing infrastructures, d) to allow the development of a sound Master Plan and e) to promote cooperation with national and international programmes. The research programme recognizes seven topics, i.e. physical oceanography and dynamic characters, nutrients, toxic substances, biological agents, modification of marine habitats, present status of the Adriatic ecosystem and human health. For each item priorities for action are indicated. Finally, the goals of the Master Plan (responsibility of the Ministry for the Environment) are listed. They include the definition of a feasible project for the restoration of the basin using alternative methods of intervention, taking into consideration the compatibility between the predicted uses of the waterbody, the assessment of the efficiency of the predicted measures in relation to the use of the resources on one hand, and the priorities for the same measures on the other.