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Pellens N, Boelee E, Veiga JM, Fleming LE, Blauw A. Innovative actions in oceans and human health for Europe. Health Promot Int 2023; 38:daab203. [PMID: 34935042 PMCID: PMC10405041 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daab203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Innovative actions are local initiatives which leverage the interactions between the ocean and human health to reduce the risks and enhance the benefits for the stakeholders and the natural environment. These initiatives can have strong positive effects on human health and wellbeing as well as on the marine environment. We analysed 150 such innovative actions in Europe. Using a combined case study and survey approach, innovative actions were identified using interviews and content analysis of websites and compiled into a database. Quantitative data were analysed according to the Drivers, Pressures, State, Impact and Response (DPSIR) framework, guided by selected in-depth interviews. Overall, the innovative actions provided a positive impact on the health of both the ocean and humans through increasing food provision, water quality and tourism opportunities; and addressing environmental issues such as commercial fish stock depletion, pollution and climate change. Innovative actions contributed to meeting various targets of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 13 and 14. These actions played a potential role ahead of and alongside policy. Some of the innovative actions may have potential to be put in place elsewhere. Such up-scaling would need to be adapted to local circumstances and could be facilitated by an innovative action exchange platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noortje Pellens
- Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, Princetonlaan 8a, 3584 CB Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Deltares, PO Box 177, 2600 MH Delft and Daltonlaan 600, 3584 BK Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Eline Boelee
- Deltares, PO Box 177, 2600 MH Delft and Daltonlaan 600, 3584 BK Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Joana M Veiga
- Deltares, PO Box 177, 2600 MH Delft and Daltonlaan 600, 3584 BK Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lora E Fleming
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Anouk Blauw
- Deltares, PO Box 177, 2600 MH Delft and Daltonlaan 600, 3584 BK Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Sahoo TP, Vasavdutta S, Chanchpara A, Sahu N, Thiyagarajan I, Ray S, Chatterjee S, Thorat RB, Haldar S, Madhava AK. Pre-to-post COVID-19 lockdown and their environmental impacts on Ghoghla beach and Somnath beach, India. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:82140-82155. [PMID: 35750909 PMCID: PMC9244305 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21586-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Environmental impact of COVID-19 imposed lockdown (2020) and the new normal condition (2021) on two different beaches of India (Ghoghla beach, Diu and Somnath beach, Veraval) were compared with the pre-lockdown era, 2013. The lockdown phase favored the natural restoration of the beaches and showed infinitesimal values of the parameters tested when compared with the pre-lockdown regime. However, the new normal situation in 2021 opened up the accessibility of these beaches to the tourists and pilgrims resulting in significant changes of water quality. The release of diluted sewage mixed with freshwater from the Somnath town to the sea has led to the drastic change in beach water quality. The mean cadmium concentration increased drastically in beach waters (Ghoghla: 1.35, 0.28 and 7.09 μg/L; Somnath: 0.45, 0.28 and 0.58 μg/L) during pre-to-post lockdown, respectively. However, post-lockdown resulted in the rise of toxic heavy metals in the sediments of Somnath beach but Ghoghla beach remained to be pristine which may be due to the Blue Flagship status. The total number of marine bacteria was higher during 2013 and 2021 when compared during lockdown describing greater human interventions. For instance, Vibrio spp. count in Ghoghla beach water during pre-lockdown phase was 7733 CFU/mL and this value reduced to 70 and 5 CFU/mL in the lockdown and post-lockdown phases. Interestingly, the diversity of planktonic and benthic components showed a different trend from pre-to-post lockdown due to significant change in the inorganic nutrients and metal bioaccumulation. To our knowledge, this will be the first comprehensive assessment to report the environmental and ecological health of Ghoghla beach and Somnath beach during the pre-to-post lockdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarini Prasad Sahoo
- Analytical and Environmental Science Division & Centralized Instrument Facility, CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364 002, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201 002, India
| | - Sonpal Vasavdutta
- Analytical and Environmental Science Division & Centralized Instrument Facility, CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364 002, India
| | - Amit Chanchpara
- Analytical and Environmental Science Division & Centralized Instrument Facility, CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364 002, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201 002, India
| | - Nosad Sahu
- Analytical and Environmental Science Division & Centralized Instrument Facility, CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364 002, India
| | - Indirapriyatharsini Thiyagarajan
- Analytical and Environmental Science Division & Centralized Instrument Facility, CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364 002, India
| | - Sanak Ray
- Analytical and Environmental Science Division & Centralized Instrument Facility, CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364 002, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201 002, India
| | - Shruti Chatterjee
- Applied Phycology and Biotechnology, CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364 002, India
| | - Ravikumar Bhagawan Thorat
- Analytical and Environmental Science Division & Centralized Instrument Facility, CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364 002, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201 002, India
| | - Soumya Haldar
- Analytical and Environmental Science Division & Centralized Instrument Facility, CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364 002, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201 002, India
| | - Anil Kumar Madhava
- Analytical and Environmental Science Division & Centralized Instrument Facility, CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364 002, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201 002, India.
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Short RE, Cox DTC, Ling Tan Y, Bethel A, Eales JF, Garside R. Review of the evidence for oceans and human health relationships in Europe: A systematic map. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 146:106275. [PMID: 33242730 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, there is increasing scientific evidence of critical links between the oceans and human health, with research into issues such as pollution, harmful algal blooms and nutritional contributions. However, Oceans and Human Health (OHH) remains an emerging discipline. As such these links are poorly recognized in policy efforts such as the Sustainable Development Goals, with OHH not included in either marine (SDG14) or health (SDG3) goals. This is arguably short-sighted given recent development strategies such as the EU Blue Growth Agenda. OBJECTIVES In this systematic map we aim to build on recent efforts to enhance OHH in Europe by setting a baseline of existing evidence, asking: What links have been researched between marine environments and the positive and negative impacts to human health and wellbeing? METHODS We searched eight bibliographic databases and queried 57 organizations identified through stakeholder consultation. Results include primary research and systematic reviews which were screened double blind against pre-defined inclusion criteria as per a published protocol. Studies were limited to Europe, US, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. Data was extracted according to a stakeholder-defined code book. A narrative synthesis explores the current evidence for relationships between marine exposures and human health outcomes, trends in knowledge gaps and change over time in the OHH research landscape. The resulting database is available on the website of the Seas, Oceans and Public Health in Europe website (https://sophie2020.eu/). RESULTS A total of 1,542 unique articles were included in the database, including those examined within 56 systematic reviews. Research was dominated by a US focus representing 50.1% of articles. A high number of articles were found to link: marine biotechnology and cardiovascular or immune conditions, consumption of seafood and cardiovascular health, chemical pollution and neurological conditions, microbial pollution and gastrointestinal or respiratory health, and oil industry occupations with mental health. A lack of evidence relates to direct impacts of plastic pollution and work within a number of industries identified as relevant by stakeholders. Research over time is dominated by marine biotechnology, though this is narrow in focus. Pollution, food and disease/injury research follow similar trajectories. Wellbeing and climate change have emerged more recently as key topics but lag behind other categories in volume of evidence. CONCLUSIONS The evidence base for OHH of relevance to European policy is growing but remains patchy and poorly co-ordinated. Considerable scope for future evidence synthesis exists to better inform policy-makers, though reviews need to better incorporate complex exposures. Priorities for future research include: proactive assessments of chemical pollutants, measurable impacts arising from climate change, effects of emerging marine industries, and regional and global assessments for OHH interactions. Understanding of synergistic effects across multiple exposures and outcomes using systems approaches is recommended to guide policies within the Blue Growth Strategy. Co-ordination of research across Europe and dedicated centres of research would be effective first steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Short
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, UK; Stockholm Resilience Center, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden(1).
| | - Daniel T C Cox
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, UK.
| | - Yin Ling Tan
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, UK
| | - Alison Bethel
- PenCLAHRC, University of Exeter Medical School, St. Luke's Campus, Exeter EX1 2LU, UK.
| | - Jacqualyn F Eales
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, UK.
| | - Ruth Garside
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, UK.
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Landrigan PJ, Stegeman JJ, Fleming LE, Allemand D, Anderson DM, Backer LC, Brucker-Davis F, Chevalier N, Corra L, Czerucka D, Bottein MYD, Demeneix B, Depledge M, Deheyn DD, Dorman CJ, Fénichel P, Fisher S, Gaill F, Galgani F, Gaze WH, Giuliano L, Grandjean P, Hahn ME, Hamdoun A, Hess P, Judson B, Laborde A, McGlade J, Mu J, Mustapha A, Neira M, Noble RT, Pedrotti ML, Reddy C, Rocklöv J, Scharler UM, Shanmugam H, Taghian G, van de Water JA, Vezzulli L, Weihe P, Zeka A, Raps H, Rampal P. Human Health and Ocean Pollution. Ann Glob Health 2020; 86:151. [PMID: 33354517 PMCID: PMC7731724 DOI: 10.5334/aogh.2831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pollution - unwanted waste released to air, water, and land by human activity - is the largest environmental cause of disease in the world today. It is responsible for an estimated nine million premature deaths per year, enormous economic losses, erosion of human capital, and degradation of ecosystems. Ocean pollution is an important, but insufficiently recognized and inadequately controlled component of global pollution. It poses serious threats to human health and well-being. The nature and magnitude of these impacts are only beginning to be understood. Goals (1) Broadly examine the known and potential impacts of ocean pollution on human health. (2) Inform policy makers, government leaders, international organizations, civil society, and the global public of these threats. (3) Propose priorities for interventions to control and prevent pollution of the seas and safeguard human health. Methods Topic-focused reviews that examine the effects of ocean pollution on human health, identify gaps in knowledge, project future trends, and offer evidence-based guidance for effective intervention. Environmental Findings Pollution of the oceans is widespread, worsening, and in most countries poorly controlled. It is a complex mixture of toxic metals, plastics, manufactured chemicals, petroleum, urban and industrial wastes, pesticides, fertilizers, pharmaceutical chemicals, agricultural runoff, and sewage. More than 80% arises from land-based sources. It reaches the oceans through rivers, runoff, atmospheric deposition and direct discharges. It is often heaviest near the coasts and most highly concentrated along the coasts of low- and middle-income countries. Plastic is a rapidly increasing and highly visible component of ocean pollution, and an estimated 10 million metric tons of plastic waste enter the seas each year. Mercury is the metal pollutant of greatest concern in the oceans; it is released from two main sources - coal combustion and small-scale gold mining. Global spread of industrialized agriculture with increasing use of chemical fertilizer leads to extension of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) to previously unaffected regions. Chemical pollutants are ubiquitous and contaminate seas and marine organisms from the high Arctic to the abyssal depths. Ecosystem Findings Ocean pollution has multiple negative impacts on marine ecosystems, and these impacts are exacerbated by global climate change. Petroleum-based pollutants reduce photosynthesis in marine microorganisms that generate oxygen. Increasing absorption of carbon dioxide into the seas causes ocean acidification, which destroys coral reefs, impairs shellfish development, dissolves calcium-containing microorganisms at the base of the marine food web, and increases the toxicity of some pollutants. Plastic pollution threatens marine mammals, fish, and seabirds and accumulates in large mid-ocean gyres. It breaks down into microplastic and nanoplastic particles containing multiple manufactured chemicals that can enter the tissues of marine organisms, including species consumed by humans. Industrial releases, runoff, and sewage increase frequency and severity of HABs, bacterial pollution, and anti-microbial resistance. Pollution and sea surface warming are triggering poleward migration of dangerous pathogens such as the Vibrio species. Industrial discharges, pharmaceutical wastes, pesticides, and sewage contribute to global declines in fish stocks. Human Health Findings Methylmercury and PCBs are the ocean pollutants whose human health effects are best understood. Exposures of infants in utero to these pollutants through maternal consumption of contaminated seafood can damage developing brains, reduce IQ and increase children's risks for autism, ADHD and learning disorders. Adult exposures to methylmercury increase risks for cardiovascular disease and dementia. Manufactured chemicals - phthalates, bisphenol A, flame retardants, and perfluorinated chemicals, many of them released into the seas from plastic waste - can disrupt endocrine signaling, reduce male fertility, damage the nervous system, and increase risk of cancer. HABs produce potent toxins that accumulate in fish and shellfish. When ingested, these toxins can cause severe neurological impairment and rapid death. HAB toxins can also become airborne and cause respiratory disease. Pathogenic marine bacteria cause gastrointestinal diseases and deep wound infections. With climate change and increasing pollution, risk is high that Vibrio infections, including cholera, will increase in frequency and extend to new areas. All of the health impacts of ocean pollution fall disproportionately on vulnerable populations in the Global South - environmental injustice on a planetary scale. Conclusions Ocean pollution is a global problem. It arises from multiple sources and crosses national boundaries. It is the consequence of reckless, shortsighted, and unsustainable exploitation of the earth's resources. It endangers marine ecosystems. It impedes the production of atmospheric oxygen. Its threats to human health are great and growing, but still incompletely understood. Its economic costs are only beginning to be counted.Ocean pollution can be prevented. Like all forms of pollution, ocean pollution can be controlled by deploying data-driven strategies based on law, policy, technology, and enforcement that target priority pollution sources. Many countries have used these tools to control air and water pollution and are now applying them to ocean pollution. Successes achieved to date demonstrate that broader control is feasible. Heavily polluted harbors have been cleaned, estuaries rejuvenated, and coral reefs restored.Prevention of ocean pollution creates many benefits. It boosts economies, increases tourism, helps restore fisheries, and improves human health and well-being. It advances the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). These benefits will last for centuries. Recommendations World leaders who recognize the gravity of ocean pollution, acknowledge its growing dangers, engage civil society and the global public, and take bold, evidence-based action to stop pollution at source will be critical to preventing ocean pollution and safeguarding human health.Prevention of pollution from land-based sources is key. Eliminating coal combustion and banning all uses of mercury will reduce mercury pollution. Bans on single-use plastic and better management of plastic waste reduce plastic pollution. Bans on persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have reduced pollution by PCBs and DDT. Control of industrial discharges, treatment of sewage, and reduced applications of fertilizers have mitigated coastal pollution and are reducing frequency of HABs. National, regional and international marine pollution control programs that are adequately funded and backed by strong enforcement have been shown to be effective. Robust monitoring is essential to track progress.Further interventions that hold great promise include wide-scale transition to renewable fuels; transition to a circular economy that creates little waste and focuses on equity rather than on endless growth; embracing the principles of green chemistry; and building scientific capacity in all countries.Designation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) will safeguard critical ecosystems, protect vulnerable fish stocks, and enhance human health and well-being. Creation of MPAs is an important manifestation of national and international commitment to protecting the health of the seas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John J. Stegeman
- Woods Hole Center for Oceans and Human Health, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, US
| | - Lora E. Fleming
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, GB
- University of Exeter Medical School, GB
| | | | - Donald M. Anderson
- Woods Hole Center for Oceans and Human Health, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, US
| | | | | | - Nicolas Chevalier
- Université Côte d’Azur, FR
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Inserm, C3M, FR
| | - Lilian Corra
- International Society of Doctors for the Environment (ISDE), CH
- Health and Environment of the Global Alliance on Health and Pollution (GAHP), AR
| | | | - Marie-Yasmine Dechraoui Bottein
- Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO, FR
- IOC Science and Communication Centre on Harmful Algae, University of Copenhagen, DK
- Ecotoxicologie et développement durable expertise ECODD, Valbonne, FR
| | - Barbara Demeneix
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, FR
- Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Paris, FR
| | | | - Dimitri D. Deheyn
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, US
| | | | - Patrick Fénichel
- Université Côte d’Azur, FR
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Inserm, C3M, FR
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mark E. Hahn
- Woods Hole Center for Oceans and Human Health, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, US
| | | | - Philipp Hess
- Institut Français de Recherche pour l’Exploitation des Mers, FR
| | | | | | - Jacqueline McGlade
- Institute for Global Prosperity, University College London, GB
- Strathmore University Business School, Nairobi, KE
| | | | - Adetoun Mustapha
- Nigerian Institute for Medical Research, Lagos, NG
- Imperial College London, GB
| | | | | | | | - Christopher Reddy
- Department of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, US
| | - Joacim Rocklöv
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Sustainable Health, Umeå University, Umeå, SE
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Pál Weihe
- University of the Faroe Islands and Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, FO
| | | | - Hervé Raps
- Centre Scientifique de Monaco, MC
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Health and Sustainable Development, MC
| | - Patrick Rampal
- Centre Scientifique de Monaco, MC
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Health and Sustainable Development, MC
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Lloret J, Abós-Herràndiz R, Alemany S, Allué R, Bartra J, Basagaña M, Berdalet E, Campàs M, Carreño A, Demestre M, Diogène J, Fontdecaba E, Gascon M, Gómez S, Izquierdo A, Mas L, Marquès M, Pedro-Botet J, Pery M, Peters F, Pintó X, Planas M, Sabatés A, San J, Sanchez-Vidal A, Trepat M, Vendrell C, Fleming LE. The Roses Ocean and Human Health Chair: A New Way to Engage the Public in Oceans and Human Health Challenges. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17145078. [PMID: 32674437 PMCID: PMC7400534 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17145078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Involving and engaging stakeholders is crucial for studying and managing the complex interactions between marine ecosystems and human health and wellbeing. The Oceans and Human Health Chair was founded in the town of Roses (Catalonia, Spain, NW Mediterranean) in 2018, the fruit of a regional partnership between various stakeholders, and for the purpose of leading the way to better health and wellbeing through ocean research and conservation. The Chair is located in an area of the Mediterranean with a notable fishing, tourist, and seafaring tradition and is close to a marine reserve, providing the opportunity to observe diverse environmental conditions and coastal and maritime activities. The Chair is a case study demonstrating that local, collaborative, transdisciplinary, trans-sector, and bottom-up approaches offer tremendous opportunities for engaging coastal communities to help support long-lasting solutions that benefit everyone, and especially those living by the sea or making their living from the goods and services provided by the sea. Furthermore, the Chair has successfully integrated most of its experts in oceans and human health from the most prestigious institutions in Catalonia. The Chair focuses on three main topics identified by local stakeholders: Fish and Health; Leisure, Health, and Wellbeing; and Medicines from the Sea. Led by stakeholder engagement, the Chair can serve as a novel approach within the oceans and human health field of study to tackle a variety of environmental and public health challenges related to both communicable and non-communicable diseases, within the context of sociocultural issues. Drawing on the example provided by the Chair, four principles are established to encourage improved participatory processes in the oceans and human health field: bottom-up, “think local”, transdisciplinary and trans-sectorial, and “balance the many voices”.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Lloret
- SeaHealth Research Group-Institute of Aquatic Ecology & LIPPSO-Dept. of Chemistry, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain; (A.C.); (M.P.); (J.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Rafael Abós-Herràndiz
- Department of Primary Health Care, Institut Català de la Salut, Government of Catalonia, 08013 Barcelona and 17480 Roses, Spain; (R.A.-H.); (E.F.); (C.V.)
| | - Sílvia Alemany
- History Museum of Sant Feliu de Guíxols, Sant Feliu de Guíxols, 17220 Catalonia, Spain;
| | - Rosario Allué
- D.G. Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, Government of Catalonia, 08017 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Joan Bartra
- Allergy Section, Pneumology Department, Institut Clínic Respiratori (ICR), Hospital Clínic, 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Maria Basagaña
- Allergology Unit, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain;
| | - Elisa Berdalet
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, CSIC, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (E.B.); (M.D.); (F.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Mònica Campàs
- Marine and Continental Waters Programme, IRTA, Sant Carles de la Ràpita, 43540 Catalonia, Spain; (M.C.); (J.D.)
| | - Arnau Carreño
- SeaHealth Research Group-Institute of Aquatic Ecology & LIPPSO-Dept. of Chemistry, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain; (A.C.); (M.P.); (J.S.)
| | - Montserrat Demestre
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, CSIC, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (E.B.); (M.D.); (F.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Jorge Diogène
- Marine and Continental Waters Programme, IRTA, Sant Carles de la Ràpita, 43540 Catalonia, Spain; (M.C.); (J.D.)
| | - Eva Fontdecaba
- Department of Primary Health Care, Institut Català de la Salut, Government of Catalonia, 08013 Barcelona and 17480 Roses, Spain; (R.A.-H.); (E.F.); (C.V.)
| | - Mireia Gascon
- ISGlobal (Global Health Institute Barcelona), Barcelona, Spain;
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sílvia Gómez
- Departament of Social and Cultural Anthropology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), 08193 Catalonia, Spain;
| | - Angel Izquierdo
- Medical Oncology Service, Catalan Institute of Oncology, Hospital Universitari de Girona Doctor Josep Trueta, 17007 Girona, Spain;
| | - Lluïsa Mas
- Sub-direcció Regional a Girona, Catalan Public Health Agency, Government of Catalonia, 17002 Girona, Spain; (L.M.); (M.T.)
| | - Montse Marquès
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43201 Reus, Spain;
| | - Juan Pedro-Botet
- Department of Medicine, Hospital del Mar & Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Maria Pery
- Servei d’Espais Naturals Protegits, D.G. Environmental Policies and Environment, Government of Catalonia, 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Francesc Peters
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, CSIC, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (E.B.); (M.D.); (F.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Xavier Pintó
- Unitat de Lípids i Risc Vascular, Servei de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, Idibell, University of Barcelona, CiberObn, 08907 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain;
| | - Marta Planas
- SeaHealth Research Group-Institute of Aquatic Ecology & LIPPSO-Dept. of Chemistry, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain; (A.C.); (M.P.); (J.S.)
| | - Ana Sabatés
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, CSIC, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (E.B.); (M.D.); (F.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Joan San
- SeaHealth Research Group-Institute of Aquatic Ecology & LIPPSO-Dept. of Chemistry, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain; (A.C.); (M.P.); (J.S.)
| | - Anna Sanchez-Vidal
- Department of Earth and Ocean Dynamics, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Martí Trepat
- Sub-direcció Regional a Girona, Catalan Public Health Agency, Government of Catalonia, 17002 Girona, Spain; (L.M.); (M.T.)
| | - Cristina Vendrell
- Department of Primary Health Care, Institut Català de la Salut, Government of Catalonia, 08013 Barcelona and 17480 Roses, Spain; (R.A.-H.); (E.F.); (C.V.)
| | - Lora E. Fleming
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Cornwall TR1 3HD, UK;
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Britton E, Kindermann G, Domegan C, Carlin C. Blue care: a systematic review of blue space interventions for health and wellbeing. Health Promot Int 2020; 35:50-69. [PMID: 30561661 PMCID: PMC7245048 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/day103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
There is increasing interest in the potential use of outdoor water environments, or blue space, in the promotion of human health and wellbeing. However, therapeutic nature-based practices are currently outpacing policy and the evidence base for health or wellbeing benefits of therapeutic interventions within blue space has not been systematically assessed. This systematic review aims to address the gap in understanding the impacts of blue space within existing interventions for targeted individuals. A systematic review was carried out, searching Google Scholar, SCOPUS, PubMed, etc. through to August 2017. Only blue space interventions were included that were specifically designed and structured with a therapeutic purpose for individuals with a defined need and did not include nature-based promotion projects or casual recreation in the outdoors. Thirty-three studies met the inclusion criteria and were assessed. Overall, the studies suggest that blue care can have direct benefit for health, especially mental health and psycho-social wellbeing. The majority of papers found a positive or weak association between blue care and health and wellbeing indicators. There was also some evidence for greater social connectedness during and after interventions, but results were inconsistent and mixed across studies with very few findings for physical health. This is the first systematic review of the literature on blue care. In summary, it has been shown that mental health, especially psycho-social wellbeing, can be improved with investment in blue spaces. Key areas for future research include improving understanding of the mechanisms through which blue care can improve public health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Easkey Britton
- Whitaker Institute, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Gesche Kindermann
- Whitaker Institute, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Applied Ecology Unit, Centre for Environmental Science, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Christine Domegan
- Whitaker Institute, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
- J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Caitriona Carlin
- Whitaker Institute, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Applied Ecology Unit, Centre for Environmental Science, National University of Ireland – Galway, Galway, Ireland
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7
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Kenny TA, Archambault P, Ayotte P, Batal M, Chan HM, Cheung W, Eddy TD, Little M, Ota Y, Pétrin-Desrosiers C, Plante S, Poitras J, Polanco F, Singh G, Lemire M. Oceans and human health—navigating changes on Canada’s coasts. Facets (Ott) 2020. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2020-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocean conditions can affect human health in a variety of ways that are often overlooked and unappreciated. Oceans adjacent to Canada are affected by many anthropogenic stressors, with implications for human health and well-being. Climate change further escalates these pressures and can expose coastal populations to unique health hazards and distressing conditions. However, current research efforts, education or training curriculums, and policies in Canada critically lack explicit consideration of these ocean–public health linkages. The objective of this paper is to present multiple disciplinary perspectives from academics and health practitioners to inform the development of future directions for research, capacity development, and policy and practice at the interface of oceans and human health in Canada. We synthesize major ocean and human health linkages in Canada, and identify climate-sensitive drivers of change, drawing attention to unique considerations in Canada. To support effective, sustained, and equitable collaborations at the nexus of oceans and human health, we recommend the need for progress in three critical areas: ( i) holistic worldviews and perspectives, ( ii) capacity development, and ( iii) structural supports. Canada can play a key role in supporting the global community in addressing the health challenges of climate and ocean changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiff-Annie Kenny
- Département de médecine sociale et préventive, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Axe santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada
| | - Philippe Archambault
- Département de biologie, Faculté des sciences et de génie, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- ArcticNet, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Axe santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada
| | - Malek Batal
- Département de nutrition, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
- Centre de recherche en santé publique (CReSP), Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Hing Man Chan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - William Cheung
- Institute of Oceans and Fisheries (IOF), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Tyler D. Eddy
- Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research, Fisheries & Marine Institute, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5R3, Canada
| | - Matthew Little
- School of Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Yoshitaka Ota
- Nippon Foundation Ocean Nexus Center, EarthLab, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-5674, USA
- School of Marine and Environmental Affairs (SMEA), University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-5685, USA
| | - Claudel Pétrin-Desrosiers
- Département de médecine familiale et de médecine d’urgence, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
- Association canadienne des médecins pour l’environnement/Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (ACME/CAPE), Toronto, ON M5T 2C2, Canada
| | - Steve Plante
- Département Sociétés territoires et développement, Université du Québec à Rimouski, Rimouski, QC G5L 3A1, Canada
| | - Julien Poitras
- Département de médecine familiale et de médecine d’urgence, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Fernando Polanco
- School of Medicine, St. George’s University, St. George’s, Grenada, West Indies
| | - Gerald Singh
- Department of Geography, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1B 3X9, Canada
| | - Mélanie Lemire
- Département de médecine sociale et préventive, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Axe santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de québec, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada
- Institut de biologie intégrative et des systèmes (IBIS), Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
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8
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9
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Abstract
Marine debris is widely recognized as a global environmental problem. One of its main components, microplastics, has been found in several sea salt samples from different countries, indicating that sea products are irremediably contaminated by microplastics. Previous studies show very confusing results, reporting amounts of microparticles (MPs) in salt ranging from zero to 680 MPs/kg, with no mention of the possible causes of such differences. Several errors in the experimental procedures used were found and are reported in the present work. Likewise, 21 different samples of commercial table salt from Spain have been analyzed for MPs content and nature. The samples comprise sea salts and well salts, before and after packing. The microplastic content found was of 50–280 MPs/kg salt, being polyethylene-terephthalate (PET) the most frequently found polymer, followed by polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE), with no significant differences among all the samples. The results indicate that even though the micro-particles might originate from multiple sources, there is a background presence of microplastics in the environment.
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10
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Blasco J, Corsi I, Matranga V. Particles in the oceans: Implication for a safe marine environment. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 111:1-4. [PMID: 26515473 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2015.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Strategies and technologies for the ecosafety assessment and design of engineered particles entering the marine environment are urgently needed. As the application of nanoparticles in science and technology grows, the need to understand their impact on the marine environment becomes increasingly important. This Editorial introduces a Special Issue on the topic of a sustainable and safety use of nanoparticles for protecting, recovering and supporting the oceans' environment and consequently human health. The issue focus on the impact of micro/nano-plastics and metallic nanoparticles on marine organisms, as well as some methodological aspects associated to the eco/toxicity and analytical approaches for in deep physico-chemical characterization of nanoparticles in marine waters and sediment media. Important and urgent topics are addressed in the field of nano-ecosafety in order to assess more precisely both exposure routes and environmental hazards of nanoparticles in the ocean. Ecotoxicological and toxicological data, obtained using a wide variety of organisms representative of different trophic levels and biological organization, from whole animals to macromolecules, will be useful for a better definition of cleaner and safer nanoparticles. Efforts in developing a broad understanding of target species, expected results, benchmarks and timelines, will be of primary importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Blasco
- Institute of Marine Sciences of Andalusia (ICMAN-CSIC), Campus Río San Pedro, 11510 Puerto Real, Cadiz, Spain
| | - Ilaria Corsi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Valeria Matranga
- CNR-Institute of Biomedicine and Molecular Immunology "Alberto Monroy", Palermo 90146, Italy
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11
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Moore MN. Do airborne biogenic chemicals interact with the PI3K/Akt/mTOR cell signalling pathway to benefit human health and wellbeing in rural and coastal environments? ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 140:65-75. [PMID: 25825132 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Living and taking recreation in rural and coastal environments promote health and wellbeing, although the causal factors involved are unclear. It has been proposed that such environments provide a counter to the stresses of everyday living, leading to enhanced mental and physical health. Living in natural environments will result in airborne exposure to a wide range of biogenic chemicals through inhalation and ingestion of airborne microbiota and particles. The "biogenics" hypothesis formulated here is that regular exposure to low concentrations of mixtures of natural compounds and toxins in natural environments confers pleiotropic health benefits by inhibiting the activities of interconnected cell signalling systems, particularly PI3K/Akt/mTORC1. When overactive, Akt and mTOR (mTORC1) can lead to many pathological processes including cancers, diabetes, inflammation, immunosuppression, and neurodegenerative diseases. There is a substantial body of evidence that many natural products (i.e., from bacteria, algae, fungi and higher plants) inhibit the activities of these protein kinases. Other mTOR-related interconnected metabolic control "switches" (e.g., PTEN & NF-κB), autophagy and other cytoprotective processes are also affected by natural products. The "biogenics" hypothesis formulated here is that regular intermittent exposure to a mixture of airborne biogenic compounds in natural environments confers pleiotropic health benefits by inhibiting activities of the highly interconnected PI3K/Akt/mTORC1 system. It is proposed that future experimental exposures to biogenic aerosols in animal models coupled with epidemiology, should target the activities of the various kinases in the PI3K/Akt/mTORC1 systems and related physiological processes for selected urban, rural and coastal populations in order to test this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael N Moore
- European Centre for Environment & Human Health (ECEHH), University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3HD, UK; Department of Science and Innovative Technology (DSIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, Alessandria, Italy; Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), Prospect Place, The Hoe, Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK; School of Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake's Circus, Plymouth PL4 8DD, UK.
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12
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Dallas LJ, Jha AN. Applications of biological tools or biomarkers in aquatic biota: A case study of the Tamar estuary, South West England. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 95:618-633. [PMID: 25817310 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Revised: 02/15/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Biological systems are the ultimate recipients of pollutant-induced damage. Consequently, our traditional reliance on analytical tools is not enough to assess ecosystem health. Biological responses or biomarkers are therefore also considered to be important tools for environmental hazard and risk assessments. Due to historical mining, other anthropogenic activities, and its conservational importance (e.g. NATURA sites, SACs), the Tamar estuary in South West England is an ideal environment in which to examine applications of such biological tools. This review presents a thorough and critical evaluation of the different biological tools used in the Tamar estuary thus far, while also discussing future perspectives for biomarker studies from a global perspective. In particular, we focus on the challenges which hinder applications of biological tools from being more readily incorporated into regulatory frameworks, with the aim of enabling both policymakers and primary stakeholders to maximise the environmental relevance and regulatory usefulness of such tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna J Dallas
- School of Biological Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Awadhesh N Jha
- School of Biological Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK.
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13
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Fleming LE, McDonough N, Austen M, Mee L, Moore M, Hess P, Depledge MH, White M, Philippart K, Bradbrook P, Smalley A. Oceans and Human Health: a rising tide of challenges and opportunities for Europe. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2014; 99:16-9. [PMID: 25081849 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2014.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/25/2014] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The European Marine Board recently published a position paper on linking oceans and human health as a strategic research priority for Europe. With this position paper as a reference, the March 2014 Cornwall Oceans and Human Health Workshop brought together key scientists, policy makers, funders, business, and non governmental organisations from Europe and the US to review the recent interdisciplinary and cutting edge research in oceans and human health specifically the growing evidence of the impacts of oceans and seas on human health and wellbeing (and the effects of humans on the oceans). These impacts are a complex mixture of negative influences (e.g. from climate change and extreme weather to harmful algal blooms and chemical pollution) and beneficial factors (e.g. from natural products including seafood to marine renewable energy and wellbeing from interactions with coastal environments). Integrated approaches across disciplines, institutions, and nations in science and policy are needed to protect both the oceans and human health and wellbeing now and in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- L E Fleming
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK. http://www.ecehh.org
| | - N McDonough
- European Marine Board, 8400 Oostende, Belgium.
| | - M Austen
- Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK.
| | - L Mee
- Scottish Association for Marine Sciences (SAMS), Oban PA37 1QA, Scotland, UK.
| | - M Moore
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK; Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML), Plymouth PL1 3DH, UK.
| | - P Hess
- Institut Francais de Recherche Pour L'exploitation de la Mer (IFREMER), Nantes, CEDEX 03, France.
| | - M H Depledge
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK.
| | - M White
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK.
| | - K Philippart
- Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Landsdiep 4, 1797 SZ 't Horntje, Den Hoorn, Texel, The Netherlands.
| | - P Bradbrook
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK.
| | - A Smalley
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, The University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, Cornwall TR1 3AE, UK.
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14
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Sandifer PA, Trtanj JM, Collier TK. A perspective on the history and evolution of an Oceans and Human Health "metadiscipline" in the USA. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2013; 65:880-888. [PMID: 23435826 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-013-0181-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2012] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
We review recent history and evolution of Oceans and Human Health programs and related activities in the USA from a perspective within the Federal government. As a result of about a decade of support by the US Congress and through a few Federal agencies, notably the National Science Foundation, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, and National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration, robust Oceans and Human Health (OHH) research and application activities are now relatively widespread, although still small, in a number of agencies and academic institutions. OHH themes and issues have been incorporated into comprehensive federal ocean research plans and are reflected in the new National Ocean Policy enunciated by Executive Order 13547. In just a decade, OHH has matured into a recognized "metadiscipline," with development of a small, but robust and diverse community of science and practice, incorporation into academic educational programs, regular participation in ocean and coastal science and public health societies, and active engagement with public health decision makers. In addition to substantial increases in scientific information, the OHH community has demonstrated ability to respond rapidly and effectively to emergency situations such as those associated with extreme weather events (e.g., hurricanes, floods) and human-caused disasters (e.g., the Deep Water Horizon oil spill). Among many other things, next steps include development and implementation of agency health strategies and provision of specific services, such as ecological forecasts to provide routine early warnings for ocean health threats and opportunities for prevention and mitigation of these risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Sandifer
- Hollings Marine Laboratory, National Ocean Service, NOAA, Charleston, SC 29412, USA.
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