Natural and human impacts on the eutrophication status of the western Wadden Sea : a literature survey

This study of the past changes is motivated by the project seaward extension of Rotterdam harbors, the so-called Maasvlakte II, and by the need to anticipate on eventual impacts on the Wadden Sea. This report aims to identify the origins of the past changes in the eutrophication status of the Wadden Sea. Special attention is given to changes in light regime, nutrient elimination and retention, which may have resulted from human interventions along the Dutch coast. Starting point for the assessment is that model calculations expect that 10% less fresh water and 15% less suspended matter will enter the western Wadden Sea as a result of the Maasvlakte II extension.