INTEGRATED SIMULATION FRAMEWORKS FOR ASSESSING THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF CHEMICAL POLLUTANTS IN AQUATIC SYSTEMS

Abstract

The environmental integrity of aquatic ecosystems is increasingly threatened by the discharge of chemical pollutants, posing significant risks to biodiversity and human health. Addressing these concerns requires a comprehensive understanding of pollutant dynamics, transport mechanisms, and their ecological consequences. Integrated simulation frameworks have emerged as powerful tools for assessing the environmental impact of chemical pollutants in aquatic systems. This review explores the key components and applications of such frameworks, highlighting their role in informing environmental management and policy decisions. Integrated simulation frameworks integrate multidisciplinary knowledge, encompassing hydrodynamics, water quality, ecological processes, and chemical fate and transport models. By combining these elements, these frameworks offer a holistic approach to assessing pollutant behavior in aquatic environments. They simulate complex interactions among physical, chemical, and biological processes, providing insights into pollutant dispersion, transformation pathways, bioaccumulation, and ecological responses. One notable aspect of integrated simulation frameworks is their ability to account for spatial and temporal variability in pollutant concentrations and environmental conditions. Through numerical simulations, these frameworks can predict pollutant dispersion patterns under different scenarios, including varying pollutant sources, hydrological conditions, and mitigation measures. Furthermore, they facilitate the evaluation of potential management strategies and the identification of critical pollutant sources or sensitive ecological receptors. The application of integrated simulation frameworks spans various environmental contexts, from local-scale water bodies to large river basins and coastal regions. They have been instrumental in assessing the impact of industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, urban stormwater runoff, and accidental spills on aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, these frameworks support risk assessment studies, pollution prevention planning, and regulatory compliance efforts. In conclusion, integrated simulation frameworks represent a valuable tool for understanding and managing the environmental impact of chemical pollutants in aquatic systems. By synthesizing diverse data sources and modeling approaches, they provide a comprehensive framework for decision-makers to address pollution challenges and safeguard the health and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. Continued advancements in modeling techniques and data integration hold promise for enhancing the predictive capabilities and utility of these frameworks in supporting evidence-based environmental management practices.