standardization of environmental data and information - International ...

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O2 by Winkler titration and Clarke-type microelectrode
For more details on methods, especially those used for analyses in
shore-based laboratories, see the more specialised articles cited in the
references below.
SUMMARY OF PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION ON PARAMETERS
AND STANDARDS FOR ASSESSING SEDIMENTARY AND
MANGANESE NODULE FACIES IN THE PERU BASIN
Introducing his paper, Dr. Wiedicke began by expressing the view
that Charles Morgan had overstated his point about benthic community
studies (see chapter 4). Even accepting the idea that those communities
deserved top priority, their relationship with the substrate could not be
neglected.
He cited three approaches to measuring the important parameters,
all relevant to baseline environmental studies and impact assessment: (1)
large-scale investigations such as bathymetry, fine-scale topography
(recorded with a different system) and examination of sediment distribution;
(2) sediment-specific studies on factors such as surface characteristics, and
(3) research using modelling and laboratory tests. Much more information -
- covering biology, sedimentology, geochemistry, soil mechanics and flow
modelling – could be found in a special new volume of Deep-Sea Research
II. 21
Large-scale parameters
Regarding the Peru Basin of the Pacific Ocean, off the west coast of
South America, he said its topography, controlled by the underlying rocks,
was characterized by a pattern of grabens and ridges, with basins, slopes
and even seamounts. Researchers mapping seafloor depths had found a
previously unknown seamount about 3 kilometres high. Compiling a good
bathymetric map was a top priority, because many environmental
parameters were controlled by water depth.
Another finding concerned the inclination of the seabed slope.
Mining-design experts thought the slope would present a problem for
mining operations, at least at present, though this might change with
technological development. There was also a need to know the sediment
158 INTERNATIONAL SEABED AUTHORITY