Long-term monitoring (1961-2017) shows that the oil pollution degree in guillemots shows a sharply falling trend. In the early years of the monitoring, almost all guillemots found were contaminated with oil, in recent years less than 50% of the animals found were contaminated. Due to the small number of stranded guillemots, the OSPAR protocol can no longer be strictly followed. The higher values obtained in recent years are based on relatively few individuals. However, the environmental quality standard has not yet been achieved. - The fish disease indicator (FDI) gives a good reflection of general stress within the ecosystem under increasing pressure, but assessment criteria are still being developed. Most of the observed anomalies are related to parasitic infections, and the skin disorders are the most remarkable in terms of skin disorders. Skin disorders and parasitic infections were more commonly observed during the last years. Since no trend analysis can yet be done, we cannot make a statement about an improvement or deterioration in the health of the common dab population. - The EROD activity level in dab of the BPNS is lower than the background value established by OSPAR. It is therefore very unlikely that these fish are exposed to contaminant concentrations that pose a toxicological threat. - Due to the low abundance of gastropods, in particular the purple snail, imposex could not be established in the Belgian part of the North Sea and the follow-up is based on concentrations in mussels. Decreasing concentrations were observed after the ban on tributyltin in antifouling paints, which results in concentrations lower than the norm for tributyltin in biota. As a result, one can expect that these concentrations do not give rise to a too high level of imposex in the Belgian part of the North Sea.

Long-term monitoring (1961-2017) shows that the oil pollution degree in guillemots shows a sharply falling trend. In the early years of the monitoring, almost all guillemots found were contaminated with oil, in recent years less than 50% of the animals found were contaminated. Due to the small number of stranded guillemots, the OSPAR protocol can no longer be strictly followed. The higher values obtained in recent years are based on relatively few individuals. However, the environmental quality standard has not yet been achieved. - The fish disease indicator (FDI) gives a good reflection of general stress within the ecosystem under increasing pressure, but assessment criteria are still being developed. Most of the observed anomalies are related to parasitic infections, and the skin disorders are the most remarkable in terms of skin disorders. Skin disorders and parasitic infections were more commonly observed during the last years. Since no trend analysis can yet be done, we cannot make a statement about an improvement or deterioration in the health of the common dab population. - The EROD activity level in dab of the BPNS is lower than the background value established by OSPAR. It is therefore very unlikely that these fish are exposed to contaminant concentrations that pose a toxicological threat. - Due to the low abundance of gastropods, in particular the purple snail, imposex could not be established in the Belgian part of the North Sea and the follow-up is based on concentrations in mussels. Decreasing concentrations were observed after the ban on tributyltin in antifouling paints, which results in concentrations lower than the norm for tributyltin in biota. As a result, one can expect that these concentrations do not give rise to a too high level of imposex in the Belgian part of the North Sea.

Long-term monitoring (1961-2017) shows that the oil pollution degree in guillemots shows a sharply falling trend. In the early years of the monitoring, almost all guillemots found were contaminated with oil, in recent years less than 50% of the animals found were contaminated. Due to the small number of stranded guillemots, the OSPAR protocol can no longer be strictly followed. The higher values obtained in recent years are based on relatively few individuals. However, the environmental quality standard has not yet been achieved. - The fish disease indicator (FDI) gives a good reflection of general stress within the ecosystem under increasing pressure, but assessment criteria are still being developed. Most of the observed anomalies are related to parasitic infections, and the skin disorders are the most remarkable in terms of skin disorders. Skin disorders and parasitic infections were more commonly observed during the last years. Since no trend analysis can yet be done, we cannot make a statement about an improvement or deterioration in the health of the common dab population. - The EROD activity level in dab of the BPNS is lower than the background value established by OSPAR. It is therefore very unlikely that these fish are exposed to contaminant concentrations that pose a toxicological threat. - Due to the low abundance of gastropods, in particular the purple snail, imposex could not be established in the Belgian part of the North Sea and the follow-up is based on concentrations in mussels. Decreasing concentrations were observed after the ban on tributyltin in antifouling paints, which results in concentrations lower than the norm for tributyltin in biota. As a result, one can expect that these concentrations do not give rise to a too high level of imposex in the Belgian part of the North Sea.

Long-term monitoring (1961-2017) shows that the oil pollution degree in guillemots shows a sharply falling trend. In the early years of the monitoring, almost all guillemots found were contaminated with oil, in recent years less than 50% of the animals found were contaminated. Due to the small number of stranded guillemots, the OSPAR protocol can no longer be strictly followed. The higher values obtained in recent years are based on relatively few individuals. However, the environmental quality standard has not yet been achieved. - The fish disease indicator (FDI) gives a good reflection of general stress within the ecosystem under increasing pressure, but assessment criteria are still being developed. Most of the observed anomalies are related to parasitic infections, and the skin disorders are the most remarkable in terms of skin disorders. Skin disorders and parasitic infections were more commonly observed during the last years. Since no trend analysis can yet be done, we cannot make a statement about an improvement or deterioration in the health of the common dab population. - The EROD activity level in dab of the BPNS is lower than the background value established by OSPAR. It is therefore very unlikely that these fish are exposed to contaminant concentrations that pose a toxicological threat. - Due to the low abundance of gastropods, in particular the purple snail, imposex could not be established in the Belgian part of the North Sea and the follow-up is based on concentrations in mussels. Decreasing concentrations were observed after the ban on tributyltin in antifouling paints, which results in concentrations lower than the norm for tributyltin in biota. As a result, one can expect that these concentrations do not give rise to a too high level of imposex in the Belgian part of the North Sea.

In 2011-2016, Belgium was hit by a significant acute oil pollution caused by the Flinterstar incident (2015). During the 27-day crisis phase, 190 m3 of oil was released into the marine environment, 55 m3 of which was cleared. The impacted zone of roughly 3000 km2 covered the northern French, Belgian and southern Dutch territorial sea and a part of the Belgian EEZ. The results of the monitoring following the Flinterstar incident showed no impact of oil pollution on marine sediments, organisms or soil fauna. The impact on seabirds remained limited. For illegal oil spills, the declining trend from the past continues, these spills have become very rare (min 2 - max 12 slicks per year during this period). A similar trend cannot be observed for illegal discharges of other harmful liquids, but checking for illegality is not always possible for this type of stain during operations.

In 2011-2016, Belgium was hit by a significant acute oil pollution caused by the Flinterstar incident (2015). During the 27-day crisis phase, 190 m3 of oil was released into the marine environment, 55 m3 of which was cleared. The impacted zone of roughly 3000 km2 covered the northern French, Belgian and southern Dutch territorial sea and a part of the Belgian EEZ. The results of the monitoring following the Flinterstar incident showed no impact of oil pollution on marine sediments, organisms or soil fauna. The impact on seabirds remained limited. For illegal oil spills, the declining trend from the past continues, these spills have become very rare (min 2 - max 12 slicks per year during this period). A similar trend cannot be observed for illegal discharges of other harmful liquids, but checking for illegality is not always possible for this type of stain during operations.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.

Standards are not yet available for all substances, e.g. still need improvement for metals. A review of certain environmental criteria will be considered at regional level. Almost all substances for which good environmental status was not achieved belong to the persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic substances (eg. PCBs and mercury). Certainly with top predators, such as the fish thief, high concentrations of persistent pollutants are measured by accumulation in the food chain. Even if measures are taken to limit or eliminate emissions, these substances can still be present in the marine environment for a long time and, due to the persistent nature, concentrations will decrease very gradually. Decreasing concentrations were noted for mercury, lead, tributyl tin, PCBs and PAHs. - Radioactivity measured in the marine environment is mainly of natural origin. The activity of nuclides from nuclear power plants (H-3, Cs-137, Pu and Am isotopes) drops or remains stable, except for H-3.