Riverine inputs and direct discharges to Norwegian coastal waters – 2010

Abstract

Riverine inputs and direct discharges to Norwegian coastal waters in 2010 have been estimated in accordance with the requirements of the OSPAR Commission. With a few exceptions, riverine inputs of nutrients decreased in 2010 as compared to 2009, mainly due to reduced water discharges. Analyses of long-term (1990-2010) trends indicate that nutrient loads have decreased in several of the main rivers. Fish farming continues to be a major source of nutrients to coastal waters. In terms of metals, there was a significant reduction of riverine loads of mercury, and also reductions of zinc and copper, whereas nickel loads increased slightly. Copper discharges from fish farming could not be calculated due to late data deliveries. For the entire period of 1990-2010, riverine metal loads of zinc, copper and lead have been reduced. Inputs of PCBs and the pesticide lindane were, as in former years, insignificant