Meeting of the Regional Task Force on Eutrophication and HABs in RSA

Jan 2018

Introduction

ROPME held a meeting of the Regional Task Force on Eutrophication and Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) to develop a ‘Concept Note on Regional Eutrophication and Harmful Algal Blooms Strategy for ROPME Sea Area’. The meeting’s objectives were to:

  1. review international understanding of eutrophication and HABs issues;
  2. review and develop a common understanding of the potential ecological, physical and chemical dimensions of eutrophication and HABs in the ROPME Sea Area;
  3. review and develop a common understanding of how eutrophication and HABs may affect societies and economies in the ROPME Sea Area in terms of
  • biodiversity
  • water resources (desalinisation and cooling water)
  • human health
  • fisheries and aquaculture
  • tourism and recreation
  • coastal development
  • infrastructure required for mitigation and management of point and diffuse pollution sources
  • explore common policy objectives for assessing and addressing eutrophication and HABs in the ROPME Sea Area;
  • review learning from other regions with established strategies/ programmes on eutrophication and HABs;
  • discuss the development of the ROPME Sea Area Eutrophication and HABs Strategy.

Expected Outcome:

Agreed Concept Note on Regional Eutrophication and Harmful Algal Blooms Strategy for the ROPME Sea Area.