Abstract
Shipwrecks around the world contain unknown volumes of hazardous substances which, if discharged, could harm the marine environment. Shipwrecks can deteriorate for a number of reasons, including corrosion and physical impact from trawling and other activities, and the probability of a leakage increases with time. Before deciding on possible mitigation measures, there are currently few comprehensive methods for assessing shipwrecks with respect to pollution risks. A holistic method for estimating environmental risks from shipwrecks should be based on well-established risk assessment methods and should take into account both the probability of discharge and the potential consequences. The purpose of this study was therefore to present a holistic risk assessment method for potentially polluting shipwrecks. The focus is set to developing a method for estimating the environmental consequences of potential discharges of hazardous substances from shipwrecks and to combine this with earlier research on a tool for estimating the probability of discharge of hazardous substances. Risk evaluation should also be included in a full risk assessment and is the subject of further research. The consequence assessment was developed for application in three tiers. In Tier 1, the probability of discharge and possible amount of discharge are compared to other shipwrecks. In Tier 2, a risk matrix, including a classification of potential consequences, is suggested as a basis for assessment and comparison. The most detailed level, Tier 3, is based on advanced tools for oil spill trajectory modeling and sensitivity mapping of the Swedish coast. To illustrate the method an example application on two wrecks is presented. Wreck number 1 present a lower probability of discharge and a lower consequence in a Tier 1 and Tier 3 assessment. For the Tier 2 consequence assessment, the two example wrecks present equal consequence. The tool for estimating the probability of discharge of hazardous substances from shipwrecks, and the approach for consequence estimation, offers a comprehensive method for assessing the risks presented by potentially polluting shipwrecks. The method is known as VRAKA (short for shipwreck risk assessment in Swedish) and provides decision support, facilitating prioritization of risk mitigation measures enabling efficient use of available resources.
Highlights
Shipwrecks are recognized as a risk to the marine environment (Michel et al, 2005; NOAA, 2013; Ventikos et al, 2013) and the substantial costs associated with remediation of shipwrecks (Etkin et al, 2009) imply that it is not economically viable to take action for all wrecks
VRAKA is a holistic risk assessment method for potentially polluting wrecks based on well-established risk assessment methods
The method is known as VRAKA and takes into account the probability of discharge and the potential consequences of such a discharge
Summary
Shipwrecks are recognized as a risk to the marine environment (Michel et al, 2005; NOAA, 2013; Ventikos et al, 2013) and the substantial costs associated with remediation of shipwrecks (Etkin et al, 2009) imply that it is not economically viable to take action for all wrecks. Each wreck is unique in terms of time since it sank, the potential volume of hazardous substances still on board, and the proximity to sensitive environments. The probability of discharge of hazardous substances and their potential effects and consequences differ from one wreck to another. Properly taking into account the risks and uncertainties, in order to make well-informed decisions concerning prioritization and efficient remediation measures for these potentially polluting shipwrecks
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
