Sensitivity to Aquatic Pollutants

Pollutant discharges from human activities entering aquatic systems exhibit different levels of environmental sensitivity in different water bodies, even when the pollutants have the same concentration and chemical composition. This variation occurs because each aquatic environment responds differently to contaminant inputs. In some cases, environmental conditions may increase pollutant toxicity, making contaminants more harmful, while in others they may dilute, transform, or neutralize pollutants, thereby reducing their impacts. These responses depend on the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the receiving water body.

The response of aquatic organisms also plays a critical role in determining the environmental sensitivity of pollutants. If local organisms can tolerate a contaminant at a given concentration, the overall sensitivity of the ecosystem is reduced. Conversely, ecosystems containing more sensitive species are more vulnerable to pollution. Environmental assessments should also consider the accumulation of contaminants within aquatic organisms through bioaccumulation, bioconcentration, and biomagnification, as these processes can significantly increase ecological and human health risks throughout the food web.

The Hydrodynamic Model is used to simulate current circulation patterns and water level variations, while the Advection–Dispersion Model predicts the transport and distribution of dissolved pollutants. The sensitivity of pollutants associated with suspended sediments and particulate matter is evaluated using the Suspended Sediment Transport Model and the Particle Tracking Model. Because oil spills represent one of the most environmentally sensitive forms of marine pollution, the Oil Spill Analysis Model is used to simulate their transport, fate, and potential impacts. Where river inflows significantly influence coastal water quality, the River Flow Model is incorporated to represent pollutant inputs from upstream watersheds. Finally, the Marine GIS Model integrates all simulation outputs with environmental sensitivity information into a comprehensive geographic information system, enabling effective visualization, interpretation, and decision support.