Riverine inputs and direct discharges to Norwegian coastal waters - 2009

Abstract

Riverine inputs and direct discharges to Norwegian seas in 2009 have been estimated in accordance with the requirements of the OSPAR Commission. Due to the general lower water discharges in 2009 than in 2008, there was a reduction in all nutrient fractions in riverine loads in 2009. Long-term (1990-2009) trends show that nutrient loads have decreased in some Norwegian rivers, although nitrogen concentrations have increased in others. Direct discharges of nutrients from fish farming continue to increase. The riverine loads of all metals except mercury were lower in 2009 than in 2008. The copper discharges from fish farming continue to increase. Analyses of long term trends (1990-2009) in metal inputs showed that zinc and copper loads have been reduced in several rivers. Inputs of PCBs and the pesticide lindane in 2009 were insignificant.