This project aims to quantify the ecosystem-wide impacts of the Wakashio incident by extensively
- modelling the dispersion of oil leaked
- modelling the ecosystem effects
- determine a 'safe distance'
- propose restoration efforts and interventions.
We make use of two software suites- NOAA’s GNOME for modelling oil
dispersion and Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE) to develop an ecosystem model
describing the Mauritian marine environment.
Using output from GNOME, the EwE model will be utilised to trace the transfer
of oil to organisms and accumulation in organisms.
We will then develop a integrated platform that can be used to determine a
safe distance for oil tankers to pass by Mauritius (as a preventive measure)
and propose interventions to restore the marine environment.
This is an international collaboration whereby we have four universities
participating - University of Florida, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow,
University of Mauritius led by Middlesex University Mauritius. NOAA and
Ecopath International Initiative are the maintainers of GNOME and Ecopath
software respectively and are part of the MODIME consortium.
Keywords
marine,blue resilience,oil dispersion,ecology
Language
English
Publisher
Mauritius Research and Innovation Council
Content Classification
Brief
Funding Agency(ies)
Mauritius Research and Innovation Council; Middlesex University Mauritius
