Analysis of Sea Pollution by Sewage from Vessels

Abstract

In this study, we analysed the sea pollution caused by sewage from vessels. The Dubrovnik aquatorium was chosen as a typical sea area that accommodates a variety of vessels in different locations. We sampled the sea at eight different coastal locations over 14 months and then analysed the samples to determine the presence of the indicators of fecal pollution. Simultaneous with the sampling of the sea, we recorded the number and type of vessels accommodated at the port. These data were applied in chi-square tests, which were used to determine the existence of the relationship of certain types of vessels with fecal coliform bacteria in the sea for each location. The correlation was determined between smaller vessels such as boats, yachts, megayachts, and smaller cruise ships in national navigation with bacteria at sea at the sampling locations. The results can provide an improved understanding of sea pollution due to sewage from vessels.