Ocean Incineration?A Burning Issue (With Emphasis on the Sea-Surface Microlayer)

by Fran Recht,
Robert Pavia, Oregon State Univ, Corvallis, OR, USA, Oregon State,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Coastal Zone '87

Abstract:

Ocean incineration of hazardous wastes has been encouraged by the Environmental Protection Agency. Many scientists as well as other citizens are concerned that potential impacts have not be adequately assessed. A brief look at ocean incineration and the controversy is presented. The sea surface microlayer is an environment long known to concentrate contaminants. A case is made herein that this surface layer should not be ignored in any assessment of the effects of incineration, as it contains a varied and productive ecosystem and provides a critical environment for the larvae and eggs of many of our important fisheries. The sea surface is not to be considered in isolation, effects in this layer may well have wide-ranging effects on organisms throughout the marine environment.

Subject Headings: Incineration | Ocean engineering | Water pollution | Seas and oceans | Hazardous wastes | Water conservation | Pollutants

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