Nutrient over-enrichment of coastal ecosystems is a major environmental problem globally, contributing to problems such as harmful algal blooms, dead zone formation, and fishery decline. Yet, quantitative relationships between nutrient loading and ecosystem effects are not well defined.
Our work on Eutrophication / Nutrients
The IOC Nutrients and Coastal Impacts Research Programme (N-CIRP) is focussing on integrated coastal research and coastal eutrophication, and linking nutrient sources to coastal ecosystem effects and management in particular. As part of the implementation strategy for N-CIRP, IOC also actively participates in a UNEP led Global Partnership on Nutrient Management (GPNM) with intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations and governments.
Concern over the impacts of altered nutrient inputs, N, P and Si, to coastal waters has led the UN to include an “Index for Coastal Eutrophication Potential” (ICEP) as indicator for SDG Goal 14.1.1 on eutrophication. To implement ICEP it is needed to develop a dissolved silica model and evaluate the effectiveness of ICEP in predicting coastal impacts at the global scale. With UN Environment being the custodian agency for 14.1.1, the IOC is aiming at contributing by developing and validating ICEP fully.
Useful links:
Integrated Coastal Research
Global Partnership on Nutrient Management