The impact of marine pollutants and marine debris in Moreton Bay

Abstract

Moreton Bay is affected by a wide range of persistent pollutants, including the following four broad groups: (i) dioxins and persistent organic pollutants (POPs), (ii) trace elements (e.g. metals, metalloids and non-metals), (iii) perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAAs) and (iv) plastic-based marine debris. The pollutants discussed in this paper come from diverse chemical groups, and are similar in that they are persistent in the environment and impact the health of animals and/or humans. While most of these pollutants are banned and/or actively monitored by health organisations on a global scale, (e.g. PCBs and DDT) many are still entering our waterways daily (e.g. marine debris). We discuss how dioxins have impacted on the health, lifestyle, and culture of the region’s Traditional Custodians. Case studies are presented, highlighting the impacts of the four pollutant groups on marine megafauna found in Moreton Bay including sea turtles, seabirds, and stingrays. In all cases, the authors recommend increased monitoring and the development of new strategies to reduce the four pollutant groups entering Moreton Bay.