2011 Research Programmes of the HCMR - Hellenic Centre for ...

This project will be carried by the Euro-Argo preparatory phase project partners that will form the
future partners of the Euro-Argo ERIC in which we are participating.
Investigation of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) for preventing pollution and
eutrophication of the coastal sea (SGD BLACK SEA/ 893)
Scientific Coordinator:
Funding:
Starting Year: 2011
Dr Ch. Tsabaris
EU via GSRT (FP7)
Duration: 18 months (01/11/11-31/05/13)
Total Budget: 36.160 €
Study Area:
Climate and Environment (Water pollution prevention options for
coastal zones and tourist areas)
Scientific team (ΗCMR): Dr Ch. Tsabaris, Dr A. Prospathopoulos, Dr D. Patiris, Dr H. Kaberi, Dr
A. Karageorgis, S. Alexakis
Other Participants: Eleftheriou George, Androulakaki Efrosini
Brief Description of the Program: The proposed project “SGD BlackSea” in the frame of Black
Sea ERA.NET aims to perform a complete study for the affection of submarine groundwater
discharges on the eutrophication in the Black Sea. The research filed of this cooperation concerns
field work, radiotracer measurements and nutrients in two specific areas in the Black Sea where
intense SGDs appear.
The sustainable protection and management of the coastal ocean generally require a comprehensive
understanding of the processes related to solute and particulate material transport from the
terrestrial to the marine environment. Whereas river and sewage discharge into the sea are bound to
distinct locations, thus allowing straightforward quantification of discharge rates and material
budgets, the investigation of material transport via submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) is
more complicated. Adding to the general difficulties in locating submarine water sources and
investigating SGD related processes is the spatial and temporal variability that is typical for SGD.
The scientific aim of the proposed project is the application of a multi-tracer approach for SGD
research at two exemplary sites on the Black Sea coast. It is planned to combine a variety of
appropriate tracer methods and support the findings by a land-side DEM based modelling approach.
The two suggested study sites have been chosen in order to (i) show strong exposure to a high level
of anthropogenic pressure including touristic activities and (ii) to represent two different
geographical settings, one located on the mountainous eastern coast and the other on the flat
western coast of the Black Sea. The results of the project will be of relevance for the local and
regional water resource and coastal sea management. In addition, the established research network
will allow the development of new and modified methods particularly suitable for SGD related
research in the Black Sea region. Inter-institutional synergies will result from combining
experiences, approaches and methodologies from four European research institutions.
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