Pollution levels
Spatial distribution of organic pollutants and chemical impacts. More information
Ship campaigns
Investigations of biogeochemical matter cycles in the coastal sea. More information
Water and sediment sampling
Analysis of water and sediment samples at the coast and in the sea. More information
Chemical fingerprints
Analyes of anthropogenic influence on the marine environment. More information
Emissions
Modeling of chemical transport processes in the atmosphere. More information
Marine geoportal coastMap
Access to campaign data, model analysis tools and visualisation. More information
Biogeochemistry in Coastal Seas
Scientists in the division of Biogeochemistry in Coastal Seas investigate the origin, conversion and fate of chemical substances in the transition zone between land and sea. They concentrate on the interplay between human influence and natural variability in the material cycle of the coastal seas. A large range of efficient analytical instruments and the most modern laboratory infrastructure are available for examining air, water and sediment samples as well as biota from the marine environment.
The spectrum here includes heavy metals, nutrients and their isotope ratios as well as novel chemicals with particularly long lifespans. With the help of complex models, the researchers can make statements on emissions, transport and the whereabouts of these substances.
The data management is handled via the Helmholtz Coastal Data Center (HCDC). Results are currently integrated into the coastMap marine geoportal coastMap, which combines data on the physical, biogeochemical and biological properties of the seabed in the German Bight. It provides a freely accessible scientific foundation for evaluating the condition and possible changes.
