Effects on the Ecosystem of Sewage Sludge Disposal by Dumping from Ships

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Abstract
Information on the environmental consequences of discharging sewage sludge from ships at sea is reviewed. Effects on the water column and on the seabed are summarised. The major impact is related to the nutrient and organic content of the sludge and is found in areas where sludge accumulates on the bottom, producing changes in the sediments and in the benthic communities. There is no clear evidence of adverse effects from potentially toxic substances in the sludge. Careful selection of dumping grounds is important to prevent public health and amenity effects and to ensure there is no interference with fisheries.

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