Dumping at sea

Abstract

Dumping at sea is a management option for the disposal of industrial wastes, dredged materials and sewage sludge. Dumping operations in the North Sea area have been regulated since 1974 by two international Conventions, and statistics have been kept of the amounts and types of wastes dumped. However, concerns have been expressed at the possible long-term environmental consequences of dumping, and all industrial waste dumping operations in the North Sea are being phased out. Land-based alternatives for disposal are being developed.