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Ghana's coastline has been facing erosion and sedimentation phenomena for several decades, resulting in a serious threat to life and property considering that major urban settlements are located on the coast. In this region, there has been a lack of emphasis on comprehensive, large-scale investigations into coastal changes: prior research has predominantly centered on site-specific assessments. These studies have revealed alarming erosion rates, with reports indicating that nearly ten meters are lost annually. The use of high-resolution remotely sensed data can be a consistent support in regions where physical or economic obstacles interfere with collecting in situ information. In particular, the use of continuous all-weather SAR data may facilitate the evaluation of erosion and sedimentation phenomena in coastal areas. In this paper, we apply SAR data over a time period between 2017 and 2021. Sentinel-1 data are pre-processed using the Google Earth Engine platform, and a dedicated algorithm is then applied to identify and quantify erosion and sedimentation processes. Optical images are used as a reference for detecting the location of two areas where consistent sedimentation and erosion phenomena occurred in the considered four years. The results demonstrate that SAR backscattering variations over time offer a reliable method for monitoring coastal changes. This approach enables the identification of the type of phenomena occurring - sedimentation or erosion -, and allows for the quantification of their intensity and dimensions over time. The method can be worldwide applied once the appropriate thresholds are evaluated and help in predictive studies and environmental planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flourishing industrial sector and pharmaceutical companies have ushered in a novel predicament by introducing an array of chemicals and their metabolic byproducts into aquatic environments, causing detrimental impacts on the plant and animal life dwelling therein. Triclosan (TCS), a wellrecognized antimicrobial agent found in numerous pharmaceuticals and personal care products, epitomizes this concern. The ubiquity of TCS has kindled heightened apprehension regarding its potential menace to coastal ecology and its capacity to disrupt the delicate balance of natural processes. The primary route by which TCS enters the environment is through water pathways. In metropolitan areas, water undergoes sewage treatment, but the efficiency of TCS removal is quite low. The situation worsens in rural areas, where TCS can directly enter water bodies. When released into waterways, TCS ultimately makes its way to the coastal environment. Reports have indicated that TCS has led to various detrimental effects on coastal flora and fauna communities (such as reduced growth of aquatic organisms), gets accumulated in muscles and body tissues, and also developed antimicrobial resistance in microorganisms. Additionally, TCS exhibits lipophilic properties, allowing it to persist in the environment for extended periods, thereby increasing the threat it poses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the aging of industrial crude oil to simulate the chemical transformations that occur when it is exposed to environmental conditions over time. It was triggered by the finding of plastitar — a mixture of tar and plastic waste — on the coast of Milazzo, Sicily. Research began with a chemical characterization of the tar component of plastitar, followed by aging experiments designed to simulate environmental conditions such as seawater, UV light and sunlight. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to analyze the chemical changes during the aging process and compare the results with local tar samples. The results showed significant chemical changes in the aged crude oil, including oxidation, degradation of hydrocarbons and the formation of oxygenated compounds. In particular, the FTIR spectra of the aged crude oil closely matched those of the local tar and provided valuable insights that could help address similar coastal pollution issues in other regions. [Display omitted] • Crude oil aging experiments simulate plastitar formation in laboratory conditions. • FTIR analysis enabled significant chemical changes during crude oil aging process. • Oxidation and hydrocarbon degradation observed in aged crude oil. • New insights into plastitar formation in coastal areas [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite their global ban in 2001, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) remain detectable in marine species, posing ongoing environmental and health risks. Current use pesticides (CUPs) like chlorpyrifos and chlorothalonil, along with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), also contaminate coastal areas, affecting human health. This study assessed POPs, CUPs and PAHs in bivalves, gastropods, polychaetes, crustaceans, and echinoderms from an Atlantic Patagonian harbor. Concentrations of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) ranged from −1 ww, respectively, with endosulfan, PCB #44, 66, 118, 138, and PBDE #47 as the most prevalent. PAHs ranged from −1 ww, with Indeno[1,2,3-c,d]pyrene and Benzo[ g , h , i ]perylene as the highest. Most contaminants were below permissible limits, except PAHs in sea urchins. These findings highlight the need for long-term monitoring of pollutants in marine environments and regulation of edible species to safeguard health. [Display omitted] • POPs, PAHs and CUPs were detected in invertebrates from Patagonia harbor environments. • Endosulfan was the most prevalent pesticide in all samples. • PAH levels in sea urchins exceeded permissible limits for human consumption. • Long-term monitoring are necessary to safeguard ecosystem and human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic litter affects coastal and marine ecosystems globally. This study represents the first record of pyroplastics and plasticrust in the beaches of Tamil Nadu, India. All samples were FTIR spectroscopically examined to confirm the polymer composition of the suspected plastics. The 16 plastic formations were found in TamilNadu, including six plastiglomerates nine pyroplastics and one plasticrust. Five types of polymers (PET, PP, PVC, PA, and PE) were found on the plastic matrices. The study also revealed that pyroplastics and plasticrust formed by degradation of plastics through weathering in the coastal environment. The present study also found that four types of marine fouling organisms such as oyster larvae, bryozoan, barnacle and polychaete worm were encrusted on the two pyroplastics. The emergence of these new forms of plastic raises concerns about their interactions with the environment and biota. [Display omitted] • The sixteen new plastic formations (plastiglomerates, pyroplastics and plasticrusts) were identified in beaches of India. • Three polymers, polypropylene, polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate were recorded in the single pyroplastics. • Vesicles were observed on the surface of the pyroplastics. • Encrusting organisms such as bryozoans, barnacles, polychaete worms and bivalve larvae were found in the pyroplatics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Shandong Peninsula (SP) is the largest peninsula in China hosting rich economic and agricultural activities. In this study, we investigated the behavior of dissolved Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb and their colloidal phases in the coastal and estuarine areas of SP. Pb and Zn had the highest contamination factors of 0.22–10.15 and 0.90–4.41, respectively. The <1 kDa accounted for 23–57 % of the total dissolved phase. Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were more likely to bind to 100 kDa–0.45 μm colloids (21–57 %). For colloidal Fe and Cu, the adsorption-release behavior had more significant effects on their dynamics. In contrast, the changes in colloidal Mn, Cd, and Pb were mainly controlled by the combined influence of temperature, dissolved oxygen, and microbial activity. However, the 1–3 kDa Zn exhibited a greater pH-dependent dispersion and was significantly positively correlated with it. • Colloidal Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb heterogeneities were evaluated in the SP. • HMW colloids occupied the higher percentage of colloidal metals in the SP. • Colloidal Mn, Zn, Cd, and Pb behaviors exhibited more organic ligand-dependence. • Ligand, mixing process, and desorption co-regulated colloidal metal of the SP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Measurable cultural values providing arguments for coastal wetland protection are identified. • We address a research gap providing a southern hemisphere empirical coastal CES case-study. • Understanding CES values highlights opportunities to support coastal restoration. Elaborating the benefits humans receive from coastal wetlands using a Cultural Ecosystem Services assessment is an emergent and important field linking human wellbeing to ecosystem function. Translating these benefits into useable concepts for environmental policymakers, and managers is challenging yet important for supporting landscape restoration projects. This study responds to the call for Cultural Ecosystem Services case studies beyond the northern hemisphere. A household survey of residents adjacent to a peri-urban coastal wetland in South Australia and an online survey of interest groups were administered to identify co-benefits associated with a coastal restoration project in the region. A dynamic/relational cultural values framework guided the analysis. Findings reveal that visitation has a positive influence; people valued most the places with which they were familiar. The analysis confirms a mutual connection between: 'doing' (undertaking an activity), environmental awareness and appreciation, the formation of attachment to place, and having positive experiences. The analysis also points out that the naturalness of this coastline is highly valued. The findings here diverge from previous coastal landscape assessments based singularly on scenic value. The implication is that localised, place-based landscape assessments which include cultural values, offer a more deliberative approach to policy development and planning and will more likely incorporate what matters most to people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The estuary and tidal river of the Thanies in south-eastern England were home to active commercial fisheries in thelatermiddle ages. Despite conflicts over navigation, especially related to the use of fixed fish-weirs, the estuary supplied large quantities of fish to the London market. The importance of Thames fish to Londoners' diet emerges from documentary and archaeological evidence. These fisheries remained important throughout the period 1250-1550 and were not destroyed by the rise of large-scale trade in preserved fish from more distant waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Image 1 • Shopping bags are a consistent fraction of plastic litter deposited in beaches. • Effects of beached bags on dune plant recruitment from seed have been neglected. • Non-biodegradable and compostable bags reduced the emergence of three dune plants. • Bags differentially affected seedling growth and morphology of the study species. • Bag effects could translate in changes in plant communities and dune structure. Non-biodegradable and compostable plastic bags on beaches negatively affect the development of coastal dune vegetation by drastically reducing seedling emergence and growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The behavior, and history of lead (Pb) contamination in the ecosystem of the Loire estuary was examined using elemental concentrations and Pb isotope data in water, sediment, bivalves, shrimps, and fish. In the estuary and in the surrounding coastal area, Pb concentrations in water and sediment decreased compared to concentrations determined in the 1980s, with concentrations ranging from 15.8 to 65.7 mg kg−1 in the surface sediment, 0.04–0.26 nM in the water column, and 48.0–77.9 mg kg−1 in suspended particles. Pb biomonitoring using blue mussels collected by the French Mussel Watch Program over the last 40 years showed a concentration decrease from 3.8 to 0.8 mg kg−1. A similar trend is observed in an estuarine sediment core. Changes in accompanying Pb isotope compositions strongly suggest a binary mixing process between Pb derived from terrigenous material and anthropogenic sources. Thus, environmental regulations restricting the release of lead into the environment contribute to a decrease in estuarine levels of this pollutant, which occurs on a decadal time scale. [Display omitted] • Lead isotopes in water and sediment show traces of older lead pollution. • Dissolved lead concentrations have decreased 100-fold down to background levels. • Environmental regulations were effective at reducing anthropogenic Pb emissions and load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are among the most abundant plastics polluting the oceans. However, their environmental fate depends on how they have been weathered. Due to its unique geography, the Sea of Japan is a pollution hotspot where plastics accumulate. In this study, the structures of plastics, having drifted into the Sea of Japan coastline environment, were analyzed with a particular focus on examining polymer crystallization and carbonyl formation; two factors which influence microplastic formation and the adsorption of contaminants onto plastic surfaces. PE in the coastal environment did not show evidence of crystallization, although carbonyl formation did increase. By contrast, PET bottles were shown to not be uniform in structure, with unaged bottles being less crystalline in the neck component compared to the body. Because of this difference, in environmental PET bottles, it was the bottle neck that showed increases in crystallization and carbonyl group formation. [Display omitted] • Beached polyethylene was oxidized, though crystallization was not evident. • By contrast, PET bottles had increases in both crystallinity and carbonyl formation. • PET degradation depends on the bottle part; amorphous parts are more susceptible. • Plastics aged in the environment are not as degraded as those aged in lab studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the presence of microplastics (MPs) in mussels from an urbanized bay in Korea, focusing on intra-annual variation. The average MP concentration was 0.36 ± 0.14 n/g w.w. (1.24 ± 0.56 n/individual). MPs were detected throughout the year with minor monthly variation and no significant monthly changes. Although there was no correlation between MP concentration in mussel and seawater, a positive relationship was observed when normalizing MPs to mussel's condition index (except for July). Polypropylene, polyethylene and acrylate polymer were dominant MPs, with high-density polymers comprising 59 % of the total. Most MPs were fragments and particles <200 μm. This study indicates that strict time restrictions for mussel sampling may not be necessary to assess MP levels in this bay. Additionally, considering MPs in seawater, biological conditions of mussel may be essential for understanding variations in MP levels in mussels. Including small MPs (<200 μm) and high-density polymers in MP assessment is recommended. • One-year monthly monitoring of microplastics (MPs) using mussel was performed. • MPs were detected year-round in mussel with minor monthly variation. • High-density polymers and MP <200 μm were abundant. • MP characteristics between mussel and seawater were similar. • MPs in seawater and biological conditions may co-influence in MP levels in mussel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spilled oil can easily reach the shore zone in the absence of appropriate and timely spill response tactics. The use of surface washing agents is a feasible tool to treat the affected shorelines for oil removal and recovery, and the related studies have been greatly enriched and expanded in recent years. In this article, three kinds of spill treating agents (dispersants, surface washing agents, and solidifiers) to remove oil from shoreline substrates were initially compared, with eventual focus on the surface washing agent. Five important characteristics of surface washing agents, including effectiveness, dispersion, biodegradation, toxicity, and oiling prevention, are systematically summarized because they can significantly affect the performance of such agents. As for application scenarios, surface washing agents are generally used in the context of marine shoreline cleanup with more mature operation procedures and practical application cases. Their possible application to freshwater systems is also discussed, though difficulties in oil recovery and quick dilution, lack of knowledge and experience, and potential risk of contaminating water intakes still exist in the freshwater environments. The policy and decision-making processes are discussed for a better understanding of this technique. Determining the appropriateness of using surface washing agents is one of critical issues, and the authorization should be obtained from responsible agencies and organizations before application. Finally, current challenges and recommendations for future research are also presented. [Display omitted] • The use of surface washing agents is a feasible tool to treat oiled shorelines. • Five properties of these agents affecting oil removal performance are investigated. • Applications of washing agents in both marine and freshwater environments are reviewed. • The policy and decision-making processes for applying washing agents are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic pollution in the marine environment is one of the foremost environmental problems of our time, as it affects wildlife and human health both directly and indirectly through the effects of contaminants carried by microplastics. This study investigates the temporal and spatial distribution of plastic pellets and fragments in sandy beaches along the coastline of Northern Crete, during 2013. Their densities varied throughout the year in each beach, with highest densities during the summer and towards the upper parts of the beaches. The concentrations of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) sorbed on microplastics sampled from nine sandy beaches of Northern Crete was quantified using Gas chromatography – Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry (GC-ITMS). PAHs concentrations ranged from non-detectable levels to 1592 ng/g and fluctuated between sampling periods. Based on the observed patterns of meso- and microplastics distribution, practical guidelines are proposed to minimize the entrance of microplastics into the seawater wherefrom they are exceptionally difficult to collect, if mitigation actions are to be applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In China, remote sensing data play an important role in sea area usage management. With the enrichment of available remote sensing platforms and sensors, the volume constantly growing, and more and more complicated data processing operations on data products, remote sensing data overload has been an obvious problem for anyone who is trying to set planning policies and monitor sea area usage activities based on the valuable data products. In order to solve the problem, this paper presents a customized remote sensing data management system (RSDM) for archiving and distributing the remote sensing data products for sea area usage management. This paper has identified a set of key domain requirements by reviewing the workflow of sea area usage management. In the RSDM, a metadata interpreter tool allows data managers to classify the data products into categorical data types according to a set of domain-specific business rules, and a data model based on data lineage is developed to support tracing all relevant data products along processing chains. In addition, a unified procedure, which is used to create Quick Look images with transparent border areas from different remote sensing data sources, is developed. What is more, the system provides summary information about the available data suitable for auditing and exploratory data analysis by using a series of statistic graphs from different perspectives for data managers and users. This paper demonstrates that the RSDM improves data managers' day-to-day working arrangements, and facilitates the application of the remote sensing technology in sea area usage management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The silverside Odontesthes argentinensis is an economically significant resource for commercial fisheries in South America. We evaluated the presence of trace elements in the stomach content and fish tissues (muscle and otoliths) of O . argentinensis . In addition, we assessed the presence of trace elements in its prey (zooplankton) and in seawater in a coastal temperate area. The most abundant trace elements found in the water, zooplankton, stomach content, and fish tissues (muscle and otoliths) constituted of Ba, Mn, Sr and Zn, while Cd, Cu and Pb were observed in lower concentrations. We concluded that O . argentinensis specimens captured from the environment, within the length range analyzed for muscle samples (total length: < 21 cm), are deemed fit for human consumption because the concentrations of trace elements mostly meet the standards established in the Argentine Food Code. The information obtained in this study is vital for O . argentinensis farming in closed systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artisanal or coastal fishermen living in Manzanillo, Colima, a port-city facing the Pacific Central American Coastal Large Marine Ecosystem, fish the open sea and in the two bays that extend off the city and into the interior coastal lagoons. Over the past two decades, these fishermen - whose number is rather constant than variable in this period - have been observing significant changes in the riverine coastal environment, especially in lagoons, that, in their opinion, substantially affect both the amount of their catches and its quality and variety. This paper describes these changes and their causes from the perspective of fishermen, considering those “causes” in relation to the scientists' explanation of them and alternative explanations. It also shows that the analytical thinking of fishermen should not be disparaged by scientists, but could become an aid because they provide descriptive approaches open to be corroborated in situ by scientists who are specialists in the study of various weather and oceanographic and biological phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sediments and surface water from 8 stations each from Dhamara and Paradeep estuarine areas were sampled for investigation of heavy metals, Cd, Cu, Pb, Mn, Ni, Zn, Fe, and Cr contamination. The objective of the sediment and surface water characterization is to find the existing spatial and temporal intercorrelation. The sediment accumulation index (I sed), enrichment index (I En), ecological risk index (I EcR) and probability heavy metals (p-HMI) reveal the contamination status with Mn, Ni, Zn, Cr, and Cu showing permissible (0 ≤ I sed ≤ 1, I En ˂ 2, I EcR ≤ 150) to moderate (1 ≤ I sed ≤ 2, 40 ≤ R f ≤ 80) contamination. The p-HMI reflects the range from excellent (p-HMI = 14.89-14.54) to fair (p-HMI = 22.31-26.56) in off shore stations of the estuary. The spatial patterns of the heavy metals load index (I HMc) along the coast lines indicate that the pollution hotspots are progressively divulged to trace metals pollution over time. Heavy metal source analysis coupled with correlation analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) was used as a data reduction technique, which reveals that the heavy metal pollution in marine coastline might originate from redox reactions (Fe Mn coupling) and anthropogenic sources. [Display omitted] • HMs of the Dhamara and Paradeep estuaries in sediment and surface water were analyzed. • HM contamination was evaluated using Multiple Index and Bayesian Probability Approach. • The HMs resulted moderate to low-risk indices. • The bio-availability of MHs was mostly affected by Shipyard, Industries and Human activities. • The geogenic sedimentation of HMs was dominated by riverine input and paleo-sea-level fluctuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Port based transportations are key elements governing the operation of global maritime logistics. In China, the southeast coastline suffers from typhoons frequently every year and causes many disruptions to port operations and thus economic losses. Quantitative evaluation of coastal ports' economic losses induced by typhoons is quite demanding and can serve as guidance for port operation planning and disaster prevention. In this paper, a framework based on a hybrid wind numerical model for assessing the direct and indirect economic losses of coastline caused by typhoon-induced extreme wind is proposed. The estimation of port disruptions and their durations is realized based on the typhoon hybrid wind numerical model. For the direct economic losses, this model considers losses to the port based on the loading/unloading operations of containers. The disruption days and economic losses of 31 ports along China's coastline are selected. These include ports from the Bohai Rim Port Cluster, Yangtze River Delta Port Cluster, Southeastern Coastal Port Cluster, Pearl River Delta Port Cluster, and Southwestern Coastal Port Cluster. The analysis takes the record of typhoons from 2006 to 2020 for this investigation. The influence of time-varying variables on economic losses, such as economic growth rate, has been considered. For the indirect economic losses, the input-output models of 11 different provinces (or municipalities) are employed to analyze each sector. Features of adopting a climate model in the economic evaluations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was the first to investigate the pollution and ecological risks of heavy metals in coastal, river/stream and road-deposited sediments (RDS) from Apia in Samoa. Cr and Ni concentrations in sediment samples were higher than those of other metals. River sediments and RDS had relatively high EF values around the intensive commercial areas, with a moderate to significant enrichment of Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb. The results indicate that Cr and Ni have a natural origin from volcanic parent materials, while Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb originated from anthropogenic activities, such as traffic emissions and the discharge of municipal wastewater. The assessments of pollution and ecological risk revealed that coastal sediments adjacent to the river are anthropogenically contaminated and present a moderate ecological risk. This study demonstrates that metals that have accumulated in the urban impermeable layer and river/stream bed have flowed into the coastal environment through runoff. • Metal concentrations of sediment were investigated for the first time in Samoa. • Cr and Ni in sediments were strongly influenced by the origin of volcanic materials. • River and road-deposited sediments were contaminated with Cu, Zn, and Cd. • Metal contaminants were attributed to vehicle transport and municipal wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) have an enormous potential for investigating oceanographic problems such as the impact of industrial, touristic and commercial activities in coastal areas, among others. However, ocean waves, fog, humidity and mobility of nodes among others make difficult communication between nodes. This paper presents an on-site evaluation of the performance of an IEEE 802.15.4 WSN. In particular, the following four parameters were evaluated using different data transmission settings: received signal strength indication, throughput, round trip delay time and the rate of efficiency. Results shown that node communication between nodes on distances of up to 1.5 kilometers can be achieved but also that ocean waves did interfere with data transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 46 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs, 21 parent and 25 alkylated) were determined in seawater, surface sediment and oyster from coastal area of Dalian, North China. The concentration of Σ 46 PAHs in seawater, sediment, and oyster were 136–621 ng/L, 172–4700 ng/g dry weight (dw) and 60.0–129 ng/g wet weight (ww) in winter, and 65.0–1130 ng/L, 71.1–1090 ng/g dw and 72.8–216 ng/g ww in summer, respectively. High PAH levels were found in industrial area both in winter and summer. Selected PAH levels in sediments were compared with Sediments Quality Guidelines (ERM–ERL, TEL–PEL indexes) for evaluation probable toxic effects on marine organism and the results indicate that surface sediment from all sampling sites have a low to medium ecotoxicological risk. Daily intake of PAHs via oyster as seafood by humans were estimated and the results indicated that oyster intake would not pose a health risk to humans even 30 days after a oil spill accident near by. Water-sediment exchange analysis showed that, both in winter and summer, the fluxes for most high molecular weight PAHs were from seawater to sediment, while for low molecular weight PAHs, an equilibrium was reached between seawater and sediment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Beaches, salt marshes and dunes restore 30% more than towns, dikes, and harbors. • Beach amenities reduce the amount of psychological restoration by up to 20% • Positive dose-effects of vegetation, sand, and sky, negative of urban structures. • Towards improving sustainable spatial design, nature-based therapies, and tourism. Outdoor environments benefit health by providing psychological restoration, but the degree of psychological restoration may vary considerably within heterogenous areas. This study focused on the Belgian coast to quantify the inter- and intra-environment variation in psychological restoration and the influence of natural and urban components and people. Students (N = 102, 18-30y, 83 % female) rated 52 pictures of ten coastal environments and of five beach-specific locations on a five-item perceived restorativeness scale (PRS) in random order. General linear mixed modelling standardized for individual and study design-related covariates and random effects. Generally, the average PRS-scores varied according to the scenes' 'naturalness'. The PRS was up to 30% higher for beaches, dunes, and salt marshes (PRS ≈ 8/10) than for dikes, docks, recreational harbors, and towns (PRS ≈ 5/10). Green parks, piers, and historical sites scored intermediate. At the beach specifically, pictures taken 'on a breakwater' (PRS ≈ 8.5/10) scored up to 20% higher than those taken 'in a beach bar' and 'between beach cabins' (PRS ≈ 6.5/10). The PRS was also associated with the relative surface area of the picture components. Associations were positive for natural components (i.e. vegetation, sky, and natural underground, not water), negative for urban components (i.e. buildings, vehicles and hardened underground), and unclear for people. This study confirmed the hypothesized inter- and intra-environment variation in the psychological restoration along the Belgian coast, and highlighted the importance of coastal nature for mental health. The generated insights can lead to better informed policy decisions to maximize the health benefits offered by coastal environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial distributions of As and Hg in riverine and marine surface sediments of the coastal southwestern Laizhou Bay were obtained, and multiple indices and guidelines were applied to assess their contamination and ecological risks. The As concentrations in riverine sediments were close to those in marine sediments, and on the whole the dominant proportion of As was identified to be from natural sources. The Hg concentrations in riverine sediments were much higher than those in marine sediments, so river transportation was likely the main way of Hg into the southwestern Laizhou Bay. In respect of As, the sediment quality was fine according to the risk assessment methods used; in contrast, Hg presented an extremely contaminated status with a very high ecological risk in some riverine sediments, while most of the marine sediments were relatively much less polluted by Hg and under a lower ecological risk from it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finfish aquaculture is a fast-growing primary industry and is increasingly common in coastal ecosystems. Bacterioplankton is ubiquitous in marine environment and respond rapidly to environmental changes. Changes in bacterioplankton community are not well understood in semi-enclosed stratified embayments. This study aims to examine aquaculture effects in the composition and functional profiles of the bacterioplankton community using amplicon sequencing along a distance gradient from two finfish leases in a marine embayment. Results revealed natural stratification in bacterioplankton associated to NOx, conductivity, salinity, temperature and PO 4. Among the differentially abundant bacteria in leases, we found members associated with nutrient enrichment and aquaculture activities. Abundant predicted functions near leases were assigned to organic matter degradation, fermentation, and antibiotic resistance. This study provides a first effort to describe changes in the bacterioplankton community composition and function due to finfish aquaculture in a semi-enclosed and highly stratified embayment with a significant freshwater input. [Display omitted] • Aquaculture abundant taxa were related to biochemical processes, pathogens, and fish gut microbiome • Aquaculture enriched functional profile were related to organic matter degradation, fermentation, and antibiotic resistance • Differences between leases could be related to changes in hydrodynamics, location, and production and management practices [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The rapid growth in the global production of organophosphate esters (OPEs) has resulted in their high environmental concentrations. The low removal rate of OPEs makes the effluents of wastewater treatment plants be one of the major sources of OPEs. Due to relatively high solubility and mobility, OPEs can be carried to the coastal environment through river discharge and atmospheric deposition. Therefore, the coastal environment can be an important OPE sink. Previous studies have shown that OPEs were widely detected in coastal atmospheres, water, sediments, and even aquatic organisms. OPEs can undergo various environmental processes in the coastal environment, including adsorption/desorption, air–water exchange, and degradation. In addition, bioaccumulation of OPEs was observed in coastal biota but current concentrations would not cause significant ecological risks. More efforts are required to understand the environmental behaviors of OPEs and address resultant environmental and health risks, especially in the complicated environment. [Display omitted] • The coastal environment is an important sink of organophosphate esters (OPEs). • OPEs concentrations in the coastal environment are much higher than open ocean. • OPEs exist in various environmental media including air, seawater, and sediment. • The bioaccumulation of OPEs has been observed in coastal biota. • OPEs can be distributed remotely through atmospheric and ocean transports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Isotopic and biochemical features of suspended particulate organic matter (POM) in the water column and of sedimentary organic matter (SOM) were investigated seasonally in the Bay of Marseilles. Biochemical compounds (carbohydrates, lipids and proteins) were consistently more concentrated in POM than in SOM, with SOM mainly composed of insoluble carbohydrates. POM displayed lower δ13C and higher δ15N values than SOM. Phytoplanktonic production represented the major contributor of POM year-round with spatial and seasonal variations. Climatic parameters and wind-induced currents created differences in POM contributions, with more important inputs of terrestrial OM at one sampling site. Spatial and seasonal variations were lower for SOM. The composition of this pool appeared to be linked with the permanent inputs of phytoplankton and Posidonia oceanica detritus. The combined use of biochemical and isotopic analyses was a useful tool to characterize OM pools and would help understanding the trophic functioning of this coastal environment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The definition of coastal waters in relation to the European Union (EU) environmental legislation was clearly stated in the Water Framework Directive. In compliance with this Directive, most of the EU Member States have delineated their coastal waters’ boundaries. However, these delineations are not as complete and homogeneous as could be expected. Hence, there is a need for a comprehensive and unambiguous delimitation of European coastal waters. This paper aims at bridging this gap, providing a pan-European mapping of coastal waters, covering 553,817km2 in 30 seaside countries, 340,524km2 of which pertain to the 22 EU Member States connected to the sea. For this purpose, a comprehensive geographical analysis of the national baselines and transitional waters distribution was performed. A pan-European baseline of 63,340km was delineated, together with the coastal waters delimitation (the final GIS layers are provided as supplementary material of this article). The results show significant differences between the available national declarations of coastal waters and the areas identified in this work (almost 12% of the compared area), the former defining an additional 29,337km2 of coastal waters with respect to the latter. The largest deviations seem to be due either to misinterpretations of the definition of coastal waters, or to one-sided national modifications. A clear identification of European coastal water boundaries is crucial for the Water Framework Directive and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive implementations, which depend on an accurate ecological/environmental assessment of those waters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Stakeholder consultation is being adopted as standard practice in the planning and management of natural resource management programs. While the utility of stakeholder participation has been investigated for the evaluation and implementation phases of natural resource management programs, few studies have examined the utility of stakeholder consultation during the initial phases of developing such programs. This paper presents a case study from a project developing a marine and coastal monitoring program for the Pilbara and Kimberley region of northern Western Australia. Via a series of workshops held in the region, stakeholders were asked to prioritise future research needs using several voting procedures. During the analyses of the results from the different voting procedures, it became apparent that there were high levels of inconsistency, poor correlation, and contradiction, between participants’ responses. Despite the rigour of the selection process used to identify ‘suitable’ stakeholders for the workshops, these results show that stakeholders did not have the technical or broader contextual knowledge about marine ecosystems to effectively and objectively contribute to the research prioritisation and planning process. Based on the outcomes of this study, we argue that project designers need to be clear about why they are involving stakeholders in a project, particularly in light of the costs involved (financial, time, resources, costs to the stakeholder) in stakeholder consultation. Stakeholder involvement may be appropriate in later stages of developing natural resource management programs (implementation and management), however, stakeholder involvement is not appropriate in the initial phases of such programs, where scientific expertise is essential in formulating scientific concepts and frameworks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The present work presents a SWAN model (Simulating Waves Nearshore) implementation focused on the nearshore of the Black Sea Western coast. The global implementation of the SWAN model, previously calibrated for the entire Black Sea basin, is used as driver. A first area of medium resolution, that covers all the West coast of the sea, is nested into the global model. The wave observations made at the Gloria drilling unit, located in the central part of the area was considered as a check point, both for the wind input and for the wave model output. Subsequently two higher resolution areas were nested, as a third level, to cover the Romanian and Bulgarian coastal areas, respectively. Accurate estimation of wind wave characteristics in coastal environment is of considerable importance because it can help in case of environmental alerts for assessing the oil spills propagation and also to estimate the wave impact on the costal and marine structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The available literature on marine debris from Latin America and the Wider Caribbean Region was collected and linked, reviewing their methodologies and principal results (quantities, composition and spatial–temporal patterns). The study region comprises 52 coastal countries of which only 14 had registers of works on marine debris. A total of 70 works were available and 69 had their full contents accessed. Brazil dominated the available literature with 70% of the documents. Beaches were the most studied environment, and plastics the prevalent form of contamination in the whole region. The exposure of marine biota (species, type of contact, consequences) was highlighted. The studied region, although still little exploited by this sort of research, shows the same contamination patterns observed world-wide. We also contacted 40 researchers in the area, collecting scientific contributions, opinions and suggestions for improvement of this research field. Further advances and new (urgently needed) lines of research are also discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were measured in the coastal sea surface microlayer (SML), the sub-surface waters (SSW) and the overlying atmosphere in order to investigate the influence of the SML on contaminant enrichment and air–sea exchange. Samples were collected at two contrasting locations of the NW Mediterranean, one urban influenced (off Barcelona, Spain) and another comparatively clean (off Banyuls-sur-Mer, France). Statistical data analysis confirmed the accumulation of PAHs in the SML with respect to the SSW (20. 3±9. 1 vs. 13. 1±10. 0ngL−1 in the dissolved phase; 709±207 vs. 158±111ngg−1 in the particulate phase). This accumulation was higher at the contaminated location (Barcelona station) compared with the more pristine one, with PAH enrichments 1. 5 and 4. 5 times higher for the dissolved and particulate phases, respectively, indicating that the enrichment of PAHs in the SML is dominated by particle transport processes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper investigates the natural and anthropogenic processes controlling sediment chemistry in Admiralty Bay, King George Island, Antarctica, emphasizing the area affected by the Brazilian Antarctic Station Comandante Ferraz (Ferraz). Total and bioavailable concentrations of sixteen elements were determined in 32 sediment and 14 soils samples. Factor analysis allowed us to distinguish three groups of samples: (1) Ferraz sediments, with higher content of total trace metals and organic matter; (2) control sediments, with intermediate characteristics; (3) Ferraz soils, with higher bioavailability of most metals due to its oxidizing condition and low organic matter content. Major elements such as Fe, Al, Ca and Ti presented similar levels in all three groups. Enrichment factor calculations showed that paints, sewage and petroleum contamination enhanced metal concentrations in Ferraz surface sediments as follows: B, Mo, and Pb (>90%); V and Zn (70–80%); Ni, Cu, Mg, and Mn (30–40%). Despite evidence of contamination in these sediments, the low bioavailability, probably caused by iron-sulfide, indicates small environmental risks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The sea surface microlayer (SML) may play an important role on the transport and fate of persistent organic pollutants in the marine environment. In order to evaluate the appropriateness of a number of sampling devices for the analysis of 14 parent polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (3–5 aromatic rings), marine SML waters were sampled using a glass plate, a rotating drum/roller, a metal screen and a surface slick sampler. The underlying waters were also sampled for the determination of the corresponding enrichment factors (EF=[C]microlayer/[C]underlying water). The EFs were phase dependent, ranging from 1 to 3 for the dissolved phase and between 4 and 7 for the particulate phase. In order to better assess the performance of the different sampling methods, in terms of phase partitioning, the truly dissolved and colloidal phases were also estimated. Generally, no significant differences were found for the enrichment factors provided by the different methods, due to the observed large variability in concentrations that can be attributed to small-scale coastal processes. However, the metal screen is recommended as the most efficient sampling method for the study of PAHs taking into account the amount of water collected versus time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Eutrophication and associated occurrence of hypoxic condition could cause significant damage to marine ecosystems, resulting in considerable economic losses to fisheries and aquaculture and is a major source of stress that fish often have to contend with in order to survive. This problem is likely to be exacerbated in the coming years, since the wastewater treatment facilities is unlikely to catch up with increasing human activities. Moreover, large-scale reclamation projects in coastal areas have recently been increased, and these activities certainly have adverse impacts on water quality and fisheries resources. Coastal construction has a significant role in the development of hypoxic water by changing the current and mixing pattern of water. Changes in species composition and decreases in species richness and diversity have been well documented in hypoxic systems. Hypoxia could cause endocrine disruption in fish and eliminate populations of sensitive species. Shallow coastal areas are of great importance for the special nursery of fish and shellfish and land reclamation in these areas cause strong damage to fisheries. Although the tolerance of aquatic life to hypoxia is known, there is no information about the mortality of fish caused by hypoxia because fish can swim around it and no modeling study has yet been carried out. Criteria that influence the movement of fish are: amounts of food, water temperature and depth, dissolved oxygen concentration and nature of seabed. However, among these, water temperature and dissolved oxygen are the most crucial parameters that affect survival, movement and growth of fish. In this paper, a model of fish preference and mortality for environmental conditions was developed and applied to the Hakata Bay where hypoxic water occurs every summer. For the purpose of this study, a field survey of fish behavior under hypoxic water was conducted by releasing marbled sale (Pleuronectes yokohamae) in the inner bay. Moreover, a series of preference tests for DO, salinity and temperature in the laboratory were conducted in order to decide preference parameters of fish. Using the results of both field and laboratory studies, a sub-module of fish preference and mortality was coded within an integrated hydrothermal and eutrophication model (CHEM) to predict the behavior and mortality of marbled sale when hypoxia would occur in the bay. The model could reasonably simulate the behavior of the fish under hypoxia. An assessment of the impact of the ongoing land reclamation project of about 401 ha in the Wajiro tidal flat zones at the head of the bay on the fisheries resources was also conducted using the model. The results showed that the artificial land lowered the mortality rate of fish under hypoxic condition in the bay during the summer period. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

New legislation for the protection of inland surface waters, transitional waters, coastal waters and ground waters has recently been established in Italy. This law presents a new integrated approach, where all water bodies are considered as complex ecosystems to be studied in each of their components. The new concept of environmental quality of the water body, based on the ecological and chemical status, is also introduced. At the same time (i.e. the end of 2000), the European Community approved the European Water Framework Directive based on the same basic environmental concepts and criteria of the new Italian law. This paper analyses the important points and innovations required by the new Italian legislation for monitoring and classification of marine coastal waters. Details of definitions, parameters, analysis and monitoring programs are discussed. A comparison with the European Water Framework Directive is eventually given, underlining the specific characteristics of the Mediterranean sea, which have to be taken into consideration when applying the European Directive to this particular ecoregion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to give an overview of the use of indicators and indices for the evaluation of the status of the marine environment. This procedure represents a new integrated approach, where the coastal marine environment is considered as a complex ecosystem, to be studied in all its components. Recent national and international legislation introduces this new concept of environmental quality, while requiring data and information on parameters which were not evaluated in the past. Until now, monitoring and control programmes for the marine environment focused mainly on the chemical status of coastal waters. However, aspects of the biological quality are fundamental for the description of the ecological status; the need for the development of biological indicators and indices provides a challenge for the scientific and technical community managing the marine environment. Living organisms represent the most appropriate indicators for the environmental quality of a water body, as they integrate biotic and abiotic components through their adaptive response. The available information on the current use of biological indicators and indices are illustrated and suggestions and examples on the Mediterranean sea environment are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite representing an extremely relevant portion (20–40%) of worldwide coastal litter, cigarette butts are still an underestimate environmental issue of limited scientific interest. Public authorities of different countries promote active removal of cigarette butts, but the issue remains problematic in terms of aesthetic, environmental and health-related impacts. There are few studies on the environmental side-effects of smoked cigarette butt litter despite being a worldwide issue. In this work, two ecotoxicological bioassay batteries were adopted to evaluate the environmental consequences of cigarette butt water-soluble ingredient release in both marine water and freshwater. Marine assays were generally more affected compared to freshwater. Interesting outcomes were observed with crustacean tests, showing a lower effect of smoked cigarette butt leachate when tested at maximum concentration. This finding were supported by heartbeat measures of Daphnia magna, which were accelerated at 100% of smoked cigarette butt leachate. [Display omitted] • Smoked/Unsmoked cigarette butt leachates were tested with several bioassays. • Marine assays were more affected by leachates than analogous freshwater ones. • Smoking residues resulted as main source of contamination. • Daphnia magna heartbeat rate was adopted to identify non-lethal effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bivalves are useful bioindicators of microplastic contamination in the marine environment for several reasons, such as extensive filter feeding activity, broad geographical distribution, and limited movement capability. This study conducted a nationwide monitoring of microplastic pollution along the Korean coasts using filter-feeding bivalves (including oyster, mussel, and Manila clam) as bioindicators to identify the national contamination level and characteristics of microplastics. Seawater sample was collected from the same sampling stations of oyster and mussel for comparison. Microplastics were widely distributed in both coastal bivalves and waters with mean concentrations of 0.33 ± 0.23 n/g (1.21 ± 0.68 n/individual) in oyster/mussel, 0.43 ± 0.32 n/g (2.19 ± 1.20 n/individual) in Manila clam, and 1400 ± 560 n/m3 in seawater. Despite the lack of significant relationship in the abundance of microplastics, their dominant features such as size, shape, color and polymer type were similar between bivalves and seawater. Fragments (69% for oyster/mussel, 72% for Manila clam, and 77% for seawater), particles smaller than 300 μm (96% for oyster/mussel, 83% for Manila clam, and 84% for seawater) and colorless (79% for oyster/mussel, 85% for Manila clam, 75% for seawater) were the dominant shape, size and color, respectively. The major polymer types were polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyester. The microplastic level in bivalves was relatively high in urbanized areas with a wide diversity of polymer types compared with those in non-urbanized areas, and the proportion of polystyrene in the Korean samples was abundant compared with other regions due to wide use of polystyrene products in Korea. Our result suggests that microplastic contamination is widespread in the Korean coastal environment, and bivalves can reflect the microplastic pollution characteristics of the surrounding waters where they live. Image 1 • Microplastic (MP) was widespread in bivalves and seawater from the Korea coasts. • Size, shape, and polymer type were similar between bivalves and nearby seawater. • Bivalves from urbanized areas exhibited high abundance and diversity of MP. A nationwide biomonitoring study was conducted to identify the national contamination level and characteristics of microplastics in Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Living coccolithophores collected from a yearly time interval, January to December 2016, at the SP1 station of the Thessaloniki Bay, an enclosed coastal environment located in the inner part of the Thermaikos Gulf (Northwestern Aegean Sea) were analyzed to determine their seasonal variation and evaluate the effects of environmental factors on their density, species composition and distribution. Our results showed that coccolithophores constituted a significant component of the phytoplankton community and were characterized by the dominance of few opportunistic species, as an impact of eutrophic environmental conditions. Temperature seasonal cycle and the variations in nutrient inputs from riverine and/or anthropogenic sources seem to control the seasonal pattern of coccolithophores. Emiliania huxleyi with densities as high as ∼4.0 × 105 cells l−1 predominated during the late spring–early summer, whereas a strong dominance of Gephyrocapsa oceanica with densities ∼2.0 × 105 cells l−1 was observed during the late summer and the autumn. Emiliania huxleyi appeared to dominate the coccolithophore assemblages once more during the winter; while Helicosphaera carteri was continuously present during the wintertime (exceeding ∼2.7 × 103 cells l−1). Emiliania huxleyi was entirely represented by morphotype type A in the studied samples. Morphometric analysis of E. huxleyi coccoliths indicated that the population is dominated by lightly calcified forms, although an increase of more heavily calcified coccoliths was observed during late autumn-early spring in line with the well-documented seasonal succession pattern of E. huxleyi type A forms in the Aegean Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Farmers perceived production and market risks. • Farmers adopted endogenous and exogenous innovations. • Risks were offset by farm and non-farm activities. • Rice/shrimp system is economically viable. • Research and infrastructure investments are needed to maintain resilience. Farmers in Bangladesh face considerable risk due to fluctuations in biophysical and economic conditions, but the response to these risks is poorly understood. In particular, there is a need to better understand the endogenous management of risk in the rice/shrimp farming systems that have emerged in the inner coastal zone of Bangladesh. This paper draws on a case study of a typical rice/shrimp farming village in Khulna District to explore: (a) farmers' perceptions of risks and their management responses, (b) risk-return trade-offs within small-, medium-, and large-farm households, and (c) the role of other farm and non-farm activities in mitigating risks to household livelihoods. Farm-level data were collected through a reconnaissance survey, a village census, household case studies, and a sample survey of 73 households. Representative farm budgets were constructed for the three farm-size classes. The key performance indicators calculated were gross margin (GM), net income (NI), and GM per workday of family labour. The riskiness of the rice/shrimp system was assessed for each farm type using farmers' estimates of low, normal, and high yields and prices to specify triangular distributions. Cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) for GM, NI, and GM per workday were generated. A whole-farm economic analysis was also conducted to assess the relative contributions of different sources of income for each farm type. With access to saline water for shrimp farming in the dry season and fresh water for rice in the wet season, farmers have developed and progressively adapted an alternating rice/shrimp farming system that has minimised the trade-offs between the two crops and provides a good return to household and village resources for all farm types. The system is subject to significant production and market risks, especially the shrimp component. However, farmers have clearly perceived these risks and ameliorated them through a range of production, marketing, and management strategies. With these risk management practices, the rice/shrimp cropping system is economically viable, given the current variation in yields and prices. The greater risk associated with the shrimp component was offset by the renewed stability of the rice component over the past decade, and the risks of the whole cropping system were offset by other farm and non-farm sources of livelihood. Development interventions need to work with farmers to provide further options (suitable rice varieties, solutions to shrimp disease, improved village and transport infrastructure) if this resilience is to be maintained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The individual concentrations and sources of sterols in sediments samples collected in two periods 2017 (dry period /March and rainy period/August) were determined along with the Sergipe-Poxim estuarine system, Aracaju, Brazil. The individual sterols concentration ranged from 135 to 21,746 ng g−1 (March) and 191 to 144,748 ng g−1 (August) and the distribution was mainly dominated by β-sitosterol in both periods with 37.2% (March) and 70.8% (August) of the total sterols found. In all the sampling sites, the coprostanol levels were higher than 100 ng g1 (March) and 500 ng g−1 (August), indicating sewage contamination. Diagnostic ratios between sterols suggested the predominance of sewage sources. Pearson correlation assessed a correlation significant (March) and negligible (August) between coprostanol concentration levels and organic matter. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the sterols levels influenced strongly C1, as well as C2 distinguished between the plant sterols and from sewage. Unlabelled Image • Distribution of sterols in the Sergipe-Poxim estuarine sediments was assessed. • The sterol inputs to the sediments were found to be mainly from sewage sources. • The coprostanol levels increased significatively over the years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of 77 antibiotics in the coastal water and sediment from 3 bays of the East China Sea was investigated. There were 43 and 25 antibiotics detected with total concentrations of 30.8–2106.1 ng/L and 2.2–99.9 ng/g in water and sediment, respectively. Approximately 83.0% and 85.4% of the individual antibiotic concentrations were lower than 5.0 ng/L in water and 1.0 ng/g in sediment. Clindamycin (1.2–1507.9 ng/L, mean 183.8 ng/L) and erythromycin (ND–45.2 ng/g, mean 3.4 ng/g) were the most abundant in water and sediment, respectively. Ecological risk assessment revealed that the joint toxicity was enhanced when multiple antibiotics were present simultaneously. A decrease in the total antibiotic concentration and the ecological risk in water was observed from nearshore to offshore. Three antibiotics (sulfamethoxypyridazine, sulfamethoxazole and cinoxacin) were selected to be prioritized based on ecological risks for antibiotics monitoring and management of the coastal water in the East China Sea. Unlabelled Image • Distribution of 77 antibiotics were investigated in the coastal water and sediment. • Indicators were screened from multiple antibiotics based on ecological risks. • Coastal antibiotic contamination was proven to be acquired rather than innate. • Ecological risk of antibiotics decreased as the offshore distance increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is having a profound impact on most coastal regions around the world. Sea Level Rise (SLR) has exposed the coastal regions to various threats, such as inundation and erosion, which consequently influence the coastal environments. The main objective of this study is to assess the coastal vulnerability index (CVI) of the Pahang coast. This CVI comprises six variables, i.e. coastal geomorphology, coastal slope, rate of erosion and accretion, mean significant wave height, mean tidal range and rate of sea level rise. The vulnerability levels for 18 management units along the Cherating-Pekan coast are classified into five vulnerability rankings: very low, low, moderate, high and very high, based on the rating values of the above mentioned parameters. The findings indicated that two areas, namely Tjg Payang - Sg Balok and Cheruk Paloh - Kuala Pahang were categorized as high vulnerability level with 97.22% and 91.67% respectively. Meanwhile, 5.56% and 22.22% of the 87 km Cherating-Pekan coastline has low and very low vulnerability. Furthermore, the CVI values of 33.33% and 27.78% represent the high and moderate vulnerability category, respectively. Finally, the outcome of this study provides a comprehensive framework which can be used by researchers, decision makers and relevant authorities to formulate and implement mitigation and adaptation measures in an effort to address the impacts of climate change on coastal regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with other government andprivate organizations, is producing a conterminous U.S. land-cover map using Landsat Thematic Mapper 30-meter data for the Federal regions designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Accuracy assessment is to be conducted for each Federal region to estimate overall and class-specific accuracies. In Region 2, consisting of New Yorkand New Jersey, the accuracy assessment was completed for 15 land-cover and land-use classes, using interpreted 1:40,000 scale aerial photographs as reference data. The methodology used for Region 2 features a two-stage, geographically stratified approach, with a general sample of all classes (1,033 sample sites), and a separate sample for rare classes (294 sample sites). A confidence index was recorded for each land-cover interpretation on the 1:40,000-scale aerial photography. The estimated overall accuracy for Region 2 was 63 percent (standard error 1.4 percent) using all sample sites, and 75.2 percent (standard error 1.5 percent) using only reference sites with a high-confidence index. User's and producer's accuracies for the general sample anduser's accuracy for the sample of rare classes, as well as variance for the estimated accuracy parameters, were also reported. Narrowly defined land-use classes and heterogeneous conditions of land cover are the major causes of misclassification errors. Recommendations for modifying the accuracy assessment methodology for use in the other nine Federal regions are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the Active BioMonitoring (ABM) approach has been investigated using species of indigenous (from a pristine site) and transplanted (to a polluted area) hard clam Mercenaria mercenaria as an indicator organism of water/sediment pollution in Tampa Bay, Florida, ahighly urbanized and industrialized subtropical estuary. A range of possible induced stress indices was selected and used on the basis ofpotential pollutant toxicity mechanisms including specific enzymaticresponses (MFO as BPH and NADPH cytochrome c reductase, antioxidant enzymes as SOD and caltalase, PDH) and general cellular damage (lysosomal latency, histopathological lesions). The organic sediment contamination compared to the animal body burden revealed bioaccumulation activity in transplanted clams. The marked increases of BPH and catalase activities, together with the significant reduction of lysosomal membrane stability in transplanted animals, suggested their potential for application as biomarkers in subtropical coastal pollution monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]