Work Packages

Development of an innovative automated, easily applicable SML sampler fitted on vessels with the aid of floats and subsequent assessment of its performance, defining specific operational characteristics and assuring an optimal sampling process.

 

Construction of the SML sampler

Development of an automated and easily applicable sampler, assuring the representative collection of an adequate amount of SML sample, of thicknesses less than 60μm, within a reasonable time scale and minimizing potential contamination of the samples, in order to overcome the particularly laboring and time consuming SML sampling procedures currently applied.

 

Assessment of the performance and characteristics of the SML sampler

Evaluation of the features of the newly constructed sampler, through the comparison with the results produced by the application of the screen mesh and glass plate methodologies so far applied, with respect to the thickness and composition of SML collected. Examination of the impact of wind speed on the application of the new sampler, as well as of the possibility of sample contamination. Collection of SML samples from a site within the pilot coastal area, simultaneously applying the newly constructed and typical (screen mesh and glass plate) samplers. Further comparison of the results produced in the laboratory for certain chemical parameters and definition of specific operational prescriptions assuring the reliability of the sampling procedure.

Development and implementation of a novel methodological approach for the assessment of petroleum pollution in marine coastal areas with intense anthropogenic activities.

 

Application of a new methodological approach for the assessment of petroleum pollution in marine coastal areas

Application of the SML sampler constructed in WP 2 to the study of oil pollution within the pilot coastal zone, characterized by significant anthropogenic activity. Evaluation of pollution levels through the collection of paired samples of both SML and subsurface water from each sampling site. Contribution to a more reliable evaluation of present environmental conditions, through the specific methodology of assessing oil pollution levels, assured by the avoidance of potential dilution of hydrocarbons concentrations in subsurface seawater samples obtained during “conventional” sampling processes.

 

Assessment of petroleum pollution

Assessment of background levels of oil pollutants such as hydrocarbons and metals with emphasis on Ni and V, at an area unaffected by anthropogenic activities. Assessment of the environmental state of the pilot coastal zone in terms of oil pollution and metals, through the comparison with background levels.

Dissemination of project outcomes to the scientific community nationally and internationally, as well as to stakeholders involved in coastal water monitoring and policy makers responsible for the implementation of MSFD and WFD in Greece, employing various communication means. Dissemination of project outputs (autonomous SML sampler and methodological tool for the assessment of oil pollution levels) through communication and networking with relevant stakeholders and potential end users.

 

Creation of InterSeA logo and web page

Production of project informative material

Organization of a project final assembly

Publication of results