Modelling pollutants transport scenarios based on the X-Press Pearl disaster

Area of Science:

• Marine pollution
• Oceanography
• Biogeochemistry

Background:

• The MV X-Press Pearl incident released substantial urea into the ocean near Sri Lanka.
• Assessing the environmental impact of such chemical spills is crucial for regional marine ecosystems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To simulate urea dispersion in the ocean using a coupled ocean-biogeochemistry model.
• To understand the impact of varying release rates and monsoon conditions on chemical plume distribution.
• To explore affordable scenario-based approaches for managing chemical spills.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a coupled ocean (NEMO)-biogeochemistry (ERSEM) model for urea dispersion simulation.
• Adjusted tracer release rates and timing to assess plume distribution.
• Employed particle tracking experiments, validated with plastic nurdle beaching data, due to limited urea observations.

Main Results:

• Slower urea release rates were found to prolong elevated concentrations, increasing the risk of phytoplankton blooms.
• Monsoon conditions were identified as a significant factor influencing the dispersal patterns of the chemical plume.
• The study demonstrated the utility of scenario modeling for spill management in data-scarce environments.

Conclusions:

• A simplified, affordable scenario approach can effectively inform chemical spill management strategies.
• Oceanographic modeling provides valuable insights into the potential impacts of marine pollution events.
• Further research is needed to refine predictive models for chemical spill responses.