Like most systems, such coastal areas are vulnerable and sensitive to pollution. We are studying the consequences of the increasing use of nitrogen and phosphorus compounds in land farming. To a certain extent coastal systems can accommodate such substances, however too much disturbance may go beyond the buffering capacity. I study the bacteria present in the sediments and the interactions of these bacteria with iron, sulphide and phosphorus compounds. The sediments of these systems have very little or no oxygen.
Bacteria however produce a great deal of sulphide which in turn produces the rotten egg smell.
Bart Schaub Hello kids, My name is Karel Essink. I lead national and international research projects. Hello there boys and girls. Part of my work is to estimate and establish fishing quotas. A fishing quota is the total amount of fish, Dutch fisherman may catch.