"Biological Effects and Chemical Measurements for the Assessment of Pollution in Irish Marine Waters"
Research Measure: Policy Support Research Measure
Funding Type: NDP Marine Research Sub-Programme
Funding Year: 2007
Project Duration: 42 months
Project Type: Project-Based Award
Total Grant-Aid: €641,762
Lead Partner: Zoology Dept, Trinity College, Dublin
Project Partners:
- MEFSS, Marine Institute
- Shannon Aquatic Toxicity Lab, Enterprise Ireland
- Radiation & Environmental Science Centre, Dublin Institute of Technology
Project Summary
This project will develop the tools and capability for integrated chemical / biological effects testing and pilot these in an Irish context, leading to better elucidation of cause-effect relationships. Though focused on a broad range of priority pollutants, the project will place an emphasis on endocrine disrupting chemicals and the emerging area of pharmaceuticals in the environment.
The project will assist with the development of national competency and capacity for the provision of validated biological under the OSPAR Convention, Water Framework Directive and proposed EU Marine Strategy Directive. This will enhance our current understanding of the potential effects of pollutants on Irish coastal ecosystems and assessment of actual impacts of pollutants in Irish marine waters.
Ultimately, this project will provide the basis for ongoing assessment of marine ecosystem health with respect to pollutants and provide a better basis for good policy making.