Member State report / Art11 / 2014-2020 / D10 / Netherlands / NE Atlantic: Greater North Sea

Report type Member State report to Commission
MSFD Article Art. 11 Monitoring programmes (and Art. 17 updates)
Report due 2014-10-15; 2020-10-15
GES Descriptor D10 Litter
Member State Netherlands
Region/subregion NE Atlantic: Greater North Sea
Reported by Rijkswaterstaat
Report date 2014-10-16; 2020-11-17
Report access
2014 data
2020 data
Monitoring programme Monitoring programme name
MP_D10
MP_D10
Monitoring programme Reference existing programme
Monitoring programme Marine Unit ID
Q4e - Programme ID
ANSNL-D10
ANSNL-D10
Q4f - Programme description
The Cabinet views this MSFD Monitoring Programme as a guiding component of the approach to ensure a good status of the marine environment in the Dutch part of the North Sea. The MSFD Monitoring Programme has been drawn up in accordance with Article 11 of the Directive. It details the actual monitoring of the 32 indicators outlined in the Marine Strategy Part 1. Based on the measurement data, the Monitoring Programme provides insight into: 1. The status of the indicators, thereby indicating the extent to which an environmental target is achieved (MSFD, Art. 10), in order to facilitate the ongoing assessment and periodic updating of the environmental targets (MSFD, Art. 5) in order to maintain or reach good environmental status. 2. The effectiveness of the programme of measures to be implemented under the MSFD. Although the Monitoring Programme focuses primarily on the 32 indicators from the Marine Strategy Part 1, it also uses, for the purpose of interpreting the results, a number of supporting parameters that are included as standard during sampling (such as temperature, acidity, conductivity, salinity and dissolved oxygen). For the purpose of the next assessment of the environmental status in 2017-2018 and assessments thereafter, use will also be made of the information resulting from monitoring for research or from other statutory frameworks and policy areas. This includes information from national monitoring under the Bathing Water Directive in the area of microbial pathogens, shipping intensity monitoring (including fishing vessels) for the purpose of shipping traffic safety and bathymetric information obtained from hydrographic measurements. In determing spatial and temporal distribution of the monitoring, natural variation is taken into account as well as the possibilities to distinguish changes from natural variability. Important parameters for climate change and ocean acidification, such as temperature and pH are incorporated in the regular monitoring programmes. Economic data is collected by Statistics Netherlands (abbreviated as CBS in Dutch). CBS supplies the required data following receipt of a specified request for information. Thus, the requirements of MSFD Art. 8 are met and the indicative list of elements included in MSFD Appendix III is incorporated. In this way, the MSFD Monitoring Programme provides a solid basis for updating the Marine Strategy during the second implementation cycle of the MSFD. This begins by updating the initial assessment (MSFD Art. 8) and describing the good environmental status (MSFD Art. 9), environmental targets and indicators (MSFD Art. 10) in 2018, and continues through to the adjustment of the existing programme of measures (Art. 13) in 2021. References: -More information on the rationale for the balance between monitoring of state/impact, pressures, activities and measures: MS II paragraph 2.3 (DPSIR –model) -MS II Annex 4
The Cabinet views this MSFD Monitoring Programme as a guiding component of the approach to ensure a good status of the marine environment in the Dutch part of the North Sea. The MSFD Monitoring Programme has been drawn up in accordance with Article 11 of the Directive. It details the actual monitoring of the 32 indicators outlined in the Marine Strategy Part 1. Based on the measurement data, the Monitoring Programme provides insight into: 1. The status of the indicators, thereby indicating the extent to which an environmental target is achieved (MSFD, Art. 10), in order to facilitate the ongoing assessment and periodic updating of the environmental targets (MSFD, Art. 5) in order to maintain or reach good environmental status. 2. The effectiveness of the programme of measures to be implemented under the MSFD. Although the Monitoring Programme focuses primarily on the 32 indicators from the Marine Strategy Part 1, it also uses, for the purpose of interpreting the results, a number of supporting parameters that are included as standard during sampling (such as temperature, acidity, conductivity, salinity and dissolved oxygen). For the purpose of the next assessment of the environmental status in 2017-2018 and assessments thereafter, use will also be made of the information resulting from monitoring for research or from other statutory frameworks and policy areas. This includes information from national monitoring under the Bathing Water Directive in the area of microbial pathogens, shipping intensity monitoring (including fishing vessels) for the purpose of shipping traffic safety and bathymetric information obtained from hydrographic measurements. In determing spatial and temporal distribution of the monitoring, natural variation is taken into account as well as the possibilities to distinguish changes from natural variability. Important parameters for climate change and ocean acidification, such as temperature and pH are incorporated in the regular monitoring programmes. Economic data is collected by Statistics Netherlands (abbreviated as CBS in Dutch). CBS supplies the required data following receipt of a specified request for information. Thus, the requirements of MSFD Art. 8 are met and the indicative list of elements included in MSFD Appendix III is incorporated. In this way, the MSFD Monitoring Programme provides a solid basis for updating the Marine Strategy during the second implementation cycle of the MSFD. This begins by updating the initial assessment (MSFD Art. 8) and describing the good environmental status (MSFD Art. 9), environmental targets and indicators (MSFD Art. 10) in 2018, and continues through to the adjustment of the existing programme of measures (Art. 13) in 2021. References: -More information on the rationale for the balance between monitoring of state/impact, pressures, activities and measures: MS II paragraph 2.3 (DPSIR –model) -MS II Annex 4
Q5e - Natural variability
  • Other
  • not applicable: litter does not belong in the marine environment and is purely anthropogenic
  • Other
  • not applicable: litter does not belong in the marine environment and is purely anthropogenic
Q5d - Adequacy for assessment of GES Q5d - Adequate data
Y
Y
Q5d - Adequacy for assessment of GES Q5d - Established methods
Y
Y
Q5d - Adequacy for assessment of GES Q5d - Adequate understanding of GES
Y
Y
Q5d - Adequacy for assessment of GES Q5d - Adequate capacity
Y
Y
Q5f - Description of programme for GES assessment
a,b,c) In the art 9 and 10 report in 2012 the Netherlands has opted for a general description of GES under art 9 and a further elaboration of the targets and associated indicators under art 10. These targets and indicators cover all criteria from the Commission Decision as far as they are considered relevant for the Netherlands part of the North Sea. Therefore, they also cover the information requirement for the assessment of the descriptors and targets. See paragraph 9.2.12 of the Marine Strategy II for a detailed description of how the targets and the information required to describe GES, via the elaboration of an information strategy, functional requirements and a monitoring strategy, are translated into the monitoring plan. Changes in the amount of suspended and floating litter are being monitored by beach litter surveys and counts of plastic particles in the stomachs of fulmars. Litter on the seabed is being monitored in conjunction with the IBTS fish monitoring programme. When the OSPAR common indicator on seabed litter will become operational (expected in 2015 or 2016) this will be taken up in the monitoring programme as a new sub-programme. At present, there are no standard methodologies for the monitoring of micro- and nano-plastics. Experimental and field research will contribute to the development of indicators for these small plastic particles. d) the amount of litter on the beach is being influenced by the direction and force of the wind in the period before the monitoring takes place. Effects of changes in anthropogenic pressure can be distinguished from fluctuations due to weather conditions by a trend-analysis of long-term monitoring series. e) The MSFD Monitoring Plan will be updated annually in a digitally amended supplement based on the latest developments and insights in the area of indicator definitions and measurement methods, for example as a result from (sub) regional coordination within OSPAR.
a,b,c) In the art 9 and 10 report in 2012 the Netherlands has opted for a general description of GES under art 9 and a further elaboration of the targets and associated indicators under art 10. These targets and indicators cover all criteria from the Commission Decision as far as they are considered relevant for the Netherlands part of the North Sea. Therefore, they also cover the information requirement for the assessment of the descriptors and targets. See paragraph 9.2.12 of the Marine Strategy II for a detailed description of how the targets and the information required to describe GES, via the elaboration of an information strategy, functional requirements and a monitoring strategy, are translated into the monitoring plan. Changes in the amount of suspended and floating litter are being monitored by beach litter surveys and counts of plastic particles in the stomachs of fulmars. Litter on the seabed is being monitored in conjunction with the IBTS fish monitoring programme. When the OSPAR common indicator on seabed litter will become operational (expected in 2015 or 2016) this will be taken up in the monitoring programme as a new sub-programme. At present, there are no standard methodologies for the monitoring of micro- and nano-plastics. Experimental and field research will contribute to the development of indicators for these small plastic particles. d) the amount of litter on the beach is being influenced by the direction and force of the wind in the period before the monitoring takes place. Effects of changes in anthropogenic pressure can be distinguished from fluctuations due to weather conditions by a trend-analysis of long-term monitoring series. e) The MSFD Monitoring Plan will be updated annually in a digitally amended supplement based on the latest developments and insights in the area of indicator definitions and measurement methods, for example as a result from (sub) regional coordination within OSPAR.
Q5g - Gap-filling date for GES assessment
By2014
By2014
Q5h - Plans to implement monitoring for GES assessment
The internationally coordinated indicators (31) litter on beaches and (32) plastic in stomachs of northern fulmars are already being used in the North Sea region in the context of OSPAR. In 2013, the OSPAR commission designated litter on the seabed as a prioritised candidate indicator. This indicator can be established as a common indicator in one to two years. The indicator IBTS (International Bottom Trawl Survey) is being developed for this. In anticipation of this, Rijkswaterstaat is already carrying out this study in combination with ICES fish monitoring. If necessary and depending on when this process will yield results, the MSFD Monitoring Plan will be adjusted in 2015 or 2016. In cooperation with the International River commissions the sources of litter are being looked into, in particular from litter that enters the marine environment through the rivers. Experimental and field research contributes to the development of an indicator for microplastics in OSPAR, including a risk assessment for organisms. Risks of nanoplastics are also being mapped. The indicators mentioned above, such as litter on beaches and on the seabed and plastic particles in stomach of fulmars, and the results of the research will contribute to the OSPAR Intermediate Assessment in 2017 and the OSPAR QSR 2021
The internationally coordinated indicators (31) litter on beaches and (32) plastic in stomachs of northern fulmars are already being used in the North Sea region in the context of OSPAR. In 2013, the OSPAR commission designated litter on the seabed as a prioritised candidate indicator. This indicator can be established as a common indicator in one to two years. The indicator IBTS (International Bottom Trawl Survey) is being developed for this. In anticipation of this, Rijkswaterstaat is already carrying out this study in combination with ICES fish monitoring. If necessary and depending on when this process will yield results, the MSFD Monitoring Plan will be adjusted in 2015 or 2016. In cooperation with the International River commissions the sources of litter are being looked into, in particular from litter that enters the marine environment through the rivers. Experimental and field research contributes to the development of an indicator for microplastics in OSPAR, including a risk assessment for organisms. Risks of nanoplastics are also being mapped. The indicators mentioned above, such as litter on beaches and on the seabed and plastic particles in stomach of fulmars, and the results of the research will contribute to the OSPAR Intermediate Assessment in 2017 and the OSPAR QSR 2021
Q6a -Relevant targets Q6a - Environmental target
10a 10b
10a 10b
Q6a -Relevant targets Q6a - Associated indicator
10a 10b
10a 10b
Q6b - Adequacy for assessment of targets Q6b_SuitableData
Y
Y
Q6b - Adequacy for assessment of targets Q6b_EstablishedMethods
Y
Y
Q6b - Adequacy for assessment of targets Q6d_AdequateCapacity
Y
Y
Q6c - Target updating
Y
Y
Q6d - Description of programme for targets assessment
See 5f
See 5f
Q6e - Gap-filling date for targets assessment
By2014
By2014
Q6f - Plans to implement monitoring for targets assessment
Q7a - Relevant activities
  • Fisheries
  • Industry
  • Shipping
  • TourismRecreation
  • Urban
  • Fisheries
  • Industry
  • Shipping
  • TourismRecreation
  • Urban
Q7b - Description of monitoring of activities
Annex 4 of the Marine Strategy part 2 shows the DPSIR relations between ecosystem elements/descriptors, pressures and activities, as well as how the pressures and activities and their effects are monitored. Annex 3 of the Marine Strategy part 2 gives the relation between elements from the MSFD Annex 3 and the MSFD monitoring programme.
Annex 4 of the Marine Strategy part 2 shows the DPSIR relations between ecosystem elements/descriptors, pressures and activities, as well as how the pressures and activities and their effects are monitored. Annex 3 of the Marine Strategy part 2 gives the relation between elements from the MSFD Annex 3 and the MSFD monitoring programme.
Q7c - Relevant measures
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Adequate data
Y
Y
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Established methods
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Adequate understanding of GES
Y
Y
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Adequate capacity
Y
Y
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Addresses activities and pressures
Y
Y
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Addresses effectiveness of measures
Y
Y
Q7d - Description of monitoring for measures
The monitoring programme renders quantitative information on the amount of litter in the Netherlands part of the Greater North Sea. This information gives insight in the effectiveness of current and future measures. However, absolute source identification remains challenging.
The monitoring programme renders quantitative information on the amount of litter in the Netherlands part of the Greater North Sea. This information gives insight in the effectiveness of current and future measures. However, absolute source identification remains challenging.
Q7f - Gap-filling date for activities and measures
By2014
By2014
Q8a - Links to existing Monitoring Programmes
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
Reference sub-programme Sub-programme ID
ANSNL-D10-Sub1-OSPAR-Beach
ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-Fulmar
Reference sub-programme Sub-programme name
Litter - characteristics and abundance/volume
Litter - characteristics and abundance/volume
Q4g - Sub-programmes Sub-programme ID
ANSNL-D10-Sub1-OSPAR-Beach
ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-Fulmar
Q4g - Sub-programmes Sub-programme name
Litter - characteristics and abundance/volume
Litter - characteristics and abundance/volume
Q4k - Monitoring purpose
Pressurse Measures
StateImpact Pressurse Measures
Q4l - Links of monitoring programmes of other Directives and Conventions
OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic (OSPAR convention) Name of other programme: OSPAR pre-CEMP Appendix 15 - 'Beach Litter' http://www.ospar.org/documents/dbase/decrecs/agreements/10-01e_the%20cemp.doc
OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic (OSPAR Convention) Handbook for the application of Ecological Quality Objectives in the North Sea. Second Edition - 2009. OSPAR Biodiversity Series Publication 307/2009
Q5c - Features Q5c - Habitats
  • SeabedHabitatsAll WaterColumnHabitatsAll
  • SeabedHabitatsAll WaterColumnHabitatsAll
Q5c - Features Q5c - Species list
  • BirdsAll
  • BirdsAll
Q5c - Features Q5c - Physical/Chemical features
Q5c - Features Q5c - Pressures
  • Litter
  • Litter
Q9a - Elements
  • Pressure: Other Physical Disturbance: Beach Litter
  • Pressure: Other Physical Disturbance
  • plastic particles and other material in the stomach samples beach-washed fulmars
Q5a - GES criteria Relevant GES criteria
  • 10.1
  • 10.2
  • 10.1
  • 10.2
Q5b - GES indicators Relevant GES indicators
  • 10.1.1
  • 10.1.2
  • 10.2.1
  • 10.1.1
  • 10.1.2
  • 10.2.1
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Species distribution
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Species population size
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Species population characteristics
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Species impacts
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Habitat distribution
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Habitat extent
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Habitat condition (physical-chemical)
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Habitat condition (biological)
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Habitat impacts
Q9b - Parameters monitored (pressures) Pressure input
Q9b - Parameters monitored (pressures) Pressure output
  • MP-9b-2-2-1
  • MP-9b-2-2-7
  • MP-9b-2-2-9
Q9b - Parameters monitored (activity) Activity
Q9b Parameters monitored (other) Other
Q41 Spatial scope
WFD_CW TerritorialWaters EEZ
WFD_CW TerritorialWaters EEZ
Q4j - Description of spatial scope
Survey sites are present in the whole north-east Atlantic region. However for OSPAR Beach Litter Monitoring the Bay of Biscay and Iberian coast has been split into two regions and the Greater North Sea has been divided into "Southern North Sea" and "Northern North Sea". This is to reflect the different types and abundances of litter found in these regions. In the Netherlands 4 beaches are surveyed since 2001.
The programme covers the greater North Sea as it was originally developped as part of the OSPAR suite of North Sea Ecological Quality Objectives (EcoQO's) and this area fits within the Fulmar's natural range. In the Netherlands the programme has been running since 1979.
Marine Unit IDs
  • ANSNL
  • ANSNL
Q4h - Temporal scope Start date- End date
2001-9999
2002-9999
Q9h - Temporal resolution of sampling
  • 3monthly
  • Continually
Q9c - Monitoring method
Guideline for monitoring marine litter on the beaches in the OSPAR maritime area (OSPAR agreement 2010-02)
Handbook for the application of Ecological Quality Objectives in the North Sea. Second Edition - 2009. OSPAR Biodiversity Series Publication 307/2009
Q9d - Description of alteration to method
Q9e - Quality assurance
  • Other
  • Quality assurance is outlined in Guideline for monitoring marine litter on the beaches in the OSPAR maritime area (OSPAR agreement 2010-02)
  • Other
  • Quality assurance is outlined in Handbook for the application of Ecological Quality Objectives in the North Sea. Second Edition - 2009. OSPAR Biodiversity Series Publication 307/2009
Q9f - Quality control
OtherQC
OtherQC
Q9g - Spatial resolution of sampling Q9g - Proportion of area covered %
Q9g - Spatial resolution of sampling Q9g - No. of samples
Presently (2013) there are 50 sites in 11 countries along the NE Atlantic coastline. In the Netherlands 4 beaches are monitored.
the monitoring system is based on specimens of Northern Fulmars found dead on beaches or accidentally killed by collisions or fisheries. these are collected continuously on an opportunity basis. Most specimens are provided in cooperation with groups that conduct regular Beached Bird Surveys, but material is also provided through municipal beach cleaning programs or fisheries programs.
Q9i - Description of sample representivity
Q10a - Scale for aggregation of data
  • Region
  • Subregion
  • Subregion
Q10b - Other scale for aggregation of data
Data can also be aggregated at a beach, national, monitoring region, sub region or regional level.
Data can also be aggregated at a national, monitoring region, or sub-regional level (North Sea).
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - Data type
ProcessedData DataProducts
ProcessedData DataProducts
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - Data access mechanism
LocationInternationalDC
LocationInternationalDC
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - Data access rights
Open
Open
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - INSPIRE standard
EnvMonitoringFacilities
EnvMonitoringFacilities
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c Date data are available
2014-12
2014-12
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - Data update frequency
Yearly
Yearly
Q10d - Description of data access
Raw data and assessment products will be made available through the OSPAR website. Data will be available at http://www.ospar.org/content/content.asp?menu=01511400000000_000000_000000. Each year in December a basic MSFD-datafile will be made available via the website of the Informatiehuis Marien (http://www.informatiehuismarien.nl/)
Access of data included in ICES DOME is already in place for EC/EEA. Previous raw data can be accessed on request from the contact at IMARES. Future raw data will be available from the OSPAR website. Assessment products are available from the OSPAR website. Data will be available at http://bit.ly/1ggNS2E
Descriptor
D10
D10
D10
D10
D10
Monitoring strategy description
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
Coverage of GES criteria
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Gaps and plans
The IBTS survey, which is primarily established to monitor fish stocks, gives an initial impression of the quantity of litter on the seabed. However, its efficiency in ‘catching’ litter on the seabed is low; the actual quantities are therefore significantly larger than reported. The combined data on litter on the seabed from different North Sea countries are also inadequate for quantitative analysis, but that comparison can be made with a presence/absence analysis. The MSFD monitoring programme will continue to anticipate any further requirements and developments, for example arising from OSPAR or new legislation. OSPAR collaborates closely with the EU Technical Group Marine Litter (TGML). E.g., both groups will investigate how representative the monitoring is for seabed and floating macro litter. Steps are also being taken to improve the quality assurance and quality control of the monitoring. There is no monitoring in place for micro-litter yet, but a new survey for micro-litter in sediment is expected to be launched at the beginning of 2021.
The IBTS survey, which is primarily established to monitor fish stocks, gives an initial impression of the quantity of litter on the seabed. However, its efficiency in ‘catching’ litter on the seabed is low; the actual quantities are therefore significantly larger than reported. The combined data on litter on the seabed from different North Sea countries are also inadequate for quantitative analysis, but that comparison can be made with a presence/absence analysis. The MSFD monitoring programme will continue to anticipate any further requirements and developments, for example arising from OSPAR or new legislation. OSPAR collaborates closely with the EU Technical Group Marine Litter (TGML). E.g., both groups will investigate how representative the monitoring is for seabed and floating macro litter. Steps are also being taken to improve the quality assurance and quality control of the monitoring. There is no monitoring in place for micro-litter yet, but a new survey for micro-litter in sediment is expected to be launched at the beginning of 2021.
The IBTS survey, which is primarily established to monitor fish stocks, gives an initial impression of the quantity of litter on the seabed. However, its efficiency in ‘catching’ litter on the seabed is low; the actual quantities are therefore significantly larger than reported. The combined data on litter on the seabed from different North Sea countries are also inadequate for quantitative analysis, but that comparison can be made with a presence/absence analysis. The MSFD monitoring programme will continue to anticipate any further requirements and developments, for example arising from OSPAR or new legislation. OSPAR collaborates closely with the EU Technical Group Marine Litter (TGML). E.g., both groups will investigate how representative the monitoring is for seabed and floating macro litter. Steps are also being taken to improve the quality assurance and quality control of the monitoring. There is no monitoring in place for micro-litter yet, but a new survey for micro-litter in sediment is expected to be launched at the beginning of 2021.
The IBTS survey, which is primarily established to monitor fish stocks, gives an initial impression of the quantity of litter on the seabed. However, its efficiency in ‘catching’ litter on the seabed is low; the actual quantities are therefore significantly larger than reported. The combined data on litter on the seabed from different North Sea countries are also inadequate for quantitative analysis, but that comparison can be made with a presence/absence analysis. The MSFD monitoring programme will continue to anticipate any further requirements and developments, for example arising from OSPAR or new legislation. OSPAR collaborates closely with the EU Technical Group Marine Litter (TGML). E.g., both groups will investigate how representative the monitoring is for seabed and floating macro litter. Steps are also being taken to improve the quality assurance and quality control of the monitoring. There is no monitoring in place for micro-litter yet, but a new survey for micro-litter in sediment is expected to be launched at the beginning of 2021.
The IBTS survey, which is primarily established to monitor fish stocks, gives an initial impression of the quantity of litter on the seabed. However, its efficiency in ‘catching’ litter on the seabed is low; the actual quantities are therefore significantly larger than reported. The combined data on litter on the seabed from different North Sea countries are also inadequate for quantitative analysis, but that comparison can be made with a presence/absence analysis. The MSFD monitoring programme will continue to anticipate any further requirements and developments, for example arising from OSPAR or new legislation. OSPAR collaborates closely with the EU Technical Group Marine Litter (TGML). E.g., both groups will investigate how representative the monitoring is for seabed and floating macro litter. Steps are also being taken to improve the quality assurance and quality control of the monitoring. There is no monitoring in place for micro-litter yet, but a new survey for micro-litter in sediment is expected to be launched at the beginning of 2021.
Related targets
  • ANSNL-D10T1
  • ANSNL-D10T1
  • ANSNL-D10T1
  • ANSNL-D10T1
  • ANSNL-D10T1
Coverage of targets
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Related measures
  • ANSNL-M024 - '(Schoonmaak)- campagnes'
  • ANSNL-M025 - 'Aanpak Schone Maas Limburg'
  • ANSNL-M026 - 'Initiatief Duurzaam Doen'
  • ANSNL-M027 - 'Stakeholderinitiatieven op stranden'
  • ANSNL-M028 - 'Implementatie EU-richtlijn Havenontvangstvoorzieningen'
  • ANSNL-M029 - 'Lozingsverbod vuilnis door schepen (MARPOL Annex V)'
  • ANSNL-M030 - 'Marine environmental awareness cursus'
  • ANSNL-M031 - 'Programma Fishing for Litter'
  • ANSNL-M032 - 'Uitvoering (zwerf) afvalbeleid'
  • ANSNL-M033 - 'Vrijwillige vermindering van microplastics in cosmetica in Nederland'
  • ANSNL-M053 - 'Van Afval naar Grondstof (VANG)'
  • ANSNL-M054 - 'Raamovereenkomst Verpakkingen 2013-2022'
  • ANSNL-M055 - 'Landelijke aanpak zwerfafval'
  • ANSNL-M056 - 'Ketenakkoord kunststofkringloop'
  • ANSNL-M057 - 'Landelijk Afvalbeheerplan (LAP) 2'
  • ANSNL-M058 - 'Terugdringen van het gebruik van plastic tassen'
  • ANSNL-M062 - 'Agendering zwerfvuil bij stakeholders en in onderwijs'
  • ANSNL-M063 - 'Green Deal Schone Stranden'
  • ANSNL-M064 - 'Agendering bij waterbeheerders'
  • ANSNL-M065 - 'Stroomgebiedsgerichte aanpak zwerfvuil'
  • ANSNL-M066 - 'Uitrol Ophaalregeling zwerfvuil'
  • ANSNL-M067 - 'Green Deal Scheepsafvalketen'
  • ANSNL-M068 - 'Green Deal Visserij voor een schone zee'
  • ANSNL-M069 - 'Bewustwording in de visserijsector'
  • ANSNL-M070 - 'Bevordering van het terugdringen ballonnen'
  • ANSNL-M071 - 'Inzet op EU-verbod op emissies van microplastics in cosmetica en detergenten'
  • ANSNL-M024 - '(Schoonmaak)- campagnes'
  • ANSNL-M025 - 'Aanpak Schone Maas Limburg'
  • ANSNL-M026 - 'Initiatief Duurzaam Doen'
  • ANSNL-M027 - 'Stakeholderinitiatieven op stranden'
  • ANSNL-M028 - 'Implementatie EU-richtlijn Havenontvangstvoorzieningen'
  • ANSNL-M029 - 'Lozingsverbod vuilnis door schepen (MARPOL Annex V)'
  • ANSNL-M030 - 'Marine environmental awareness cursus'
  • ANSNL-M031 - 'Programma Fishing for Litter'
  • ANSNL-M032 - 'Uitvoering (zwerf) afvalbeleid'
  • ANSNL-M033 - 'Vrijwillige vermindering van microplastics in cosmetica in Nederland'
  • ANSNL-M053 - 'Van Afval naar Grondstof (VANG)'
  • ANSNL-M054 - 'Raamovereenkomst Verpakkingen 2013-2022'
  • ANSNL-M055 - 'Landelijke aanpak zwerfafval'
  • ANSNL-M056 - 'Ketenakkoord kunststofkringloop'
  • ANSNL-M057 - 'Landelijk Afvalbeheerplan (LAP) 2'
  • ANSNL-M058 - 'Terugdringen van het gebruik van plastic tassen'
  • ANSNL-M062 - 'Agendering zwerfvuil bij stakeholders en in onderwijs'
  • ANSNL-M063 - 'Green Deal Schone Stranden'
  • ANSNL-M064 - 'Agendering bij waterbeheerders'
  • ANSNL-M065 - 'Stroomgebiedsgerichte aanpak zwerfvuil'
  • ANSNL-M066 - 'Uitrol Ophaalregeling zwerfvuil'
  • ANSNL-M067 - 'Green Deal Scheepsafvalketen'
  • ANSNL-M068 - 'Green Deal Visserij voor een schone zee'
  • ANSNL-M069 - 'Bewustwording in de visserijsector'
  • ANSNL-M070 - 'Bevordering van het terugdringen ballonnen'
  • ANSNL-M071 - 'Inzet op EU-verbod op emissies van microplastics in cosmetica en detergenten'
  • ANSNL-M024 - '(Schoonmaak)- campagnes'
  • ANSNL-M025 - 'Aanpak Schone Maas Limburg'
  • ANSNL-M026 - 'Initiatief Duurzaam Doen'
  • ANSNL-M027 - 'Stakeholderinitiatieven op stranden'
  • ANSNL-M028 - 'Implementatie EU-richtlijn Havenontvangstvoorzieningen'
  • ANSNL-M029 - 'Lozingsverbod vuilnis door schepen (MARPOL Annex V)'
  • ANSNL-M030 - 'Marine environmental awareness cursus'
  • ANSNL-M031 - 'Programma Fishing for Litter'
  • ANSNL-M032 - 'Uitvoering (zwerf) afvalbeleid'
  • ANSNL-M033 - 'Vrijwillige vermindering van microplastics in cosmetica in Nederland'
  • ANSNL-M053 - 'Van Afval naar Grondstof (VANG)'
  • ANSNL-M054 - 'Raamovereenkomst Verpakkingen 2013-2022'
  • ANSNL-M055 - 'Landelijke aanpak zwerfafval'
  • ANSNL-M056 - 'Ketenakkoord kunststofkringloop'
  • ANSNL-M057 - 'Landelijk Afvalbeheerplan (LAP) 2'
  • ANSNL-M058 - 'Terugdringen van het gebruik van plastic tassen'
  • ANSNL-M062 - 'Agendering zwerfvuil bij stakeholders en in onderwijs'
  • ANSNL-M063 - 'Green Deal Schone Stranden'
  • ANSNL-M064 - 'Agendering bij waterbeheerders'
  • ANSNL-M065 - 'Stroomgebiedsgerichte aanpak zwerfvuil'
  • ANSNL-M066 - 'Uitrol Ophaalregeling zwerfvuil'
  • ANSNL-M067 - 'Green Deal Scheepsafvalketen'
  • ANSNL-M068 - 'Green Deal Visserij voor een schone zee'
  • ANSNL-M069 - 'Bewustwording in de visserijsector'
  • ANSNL-M070 - 'Bevordering van het terugdringen ballonnen'
  • ANSNL-M071 - 'Inzet op EU-verbod op emissies van microplastics in cosmetica en detergenten'
  • ANSNL-M024 - '(Schoonmaak)- campagnes'
  • ANSNL-M025 - 'Aanpak Schone Maas Limburg'
  • ANSNL-M026 - 'Initiatief Duurzaam Doen'
  • ANSNL-M027 - 'Stakeholderinitiatieven op stranden'
  • ANSNL-M028 - 'Implementatie EU-richtlijn Havenontvangstvoorzieningen'
  • ANSNL-M029 - 'Lozingsverbod vuilnis door schepen (MARPOL Annex V)'
  • ANSNL-M030 - 'Marine environmental awareness cursus'
  • ANSNL-M031 - 'Programma Fishing for Litter'
  • ANSNL-M032 - 'Uitvoering (zwerf) afvalbeleid'
  • ANSNL-M033 - 'Vrijwillige vermindering van microplastics in cosmetica in Nederland'
  • ANSNL-M053 - 'Van Afval naar Grondstof (VANG)'
  • ANSNL-M054 - 'Raamovereenkomst Verpakkingen 2013-2022'
  • ANSNL-M055 - 'Landelijke aanpak zwerfafval'
  • ANSNL-M056 - 'Ketenakkoord kunststofkringloop'
  • ANSNL-M057 - 'Landelijk Afvalbeheerplan (LAP) 2'
  • ANSNL-M058 - 'Terugdringen van het gebruik van plastic tassen'
  • ANSNL-M062 - 'Agendering zwerfvuil bij stakeholders en in onderwijs'
  • ANSNL-M063 - 'Green Deal Schone Stranden'
  • ANSNL-M064 - 'Agendering bij waterbeheerders'
  • ANSNL-M065 - 'Stroomgebiedsgerichte aanpak zwerfvuil'
  • ANSNL-M066 - 'Uitrol Ophaalregeling zwerfvuil'
  • ANSNL-M067 - 'Green Deal Scheepsafvalketen'
  • ANSNL-M068 - 'Green Deal Visserij voor een schone zee'
  • ANSNL-M069 - 'Bewustwording in de visserijsector'
  • ANSNL-M070 - 'Bevordering van het terugdringen ballonnen'
  • ANSNL-M071 - 'Inzet op EU-verbod op emissies van microplastics in cosmetica en detergenten'
  • ANSNL-M024 - '(Schoonmaak)- campagnes'
  • ANSNL-M025 - 'Aanpak Schone Maas Limburg'
  • ANSNL-M026 - 'Initiatief Duurzaam Doen'
  • ANSNL-M027 - 'Stakeholderinitiatieven op stranden'
  • ANSNL-M028 - 'Implementatie EU-richtlijn Havenontvangstvoorzieningen'
  • ANSNL-M029 - 'Lozingsverbod vuilnis door schepen (MARPOL Annex V)'
  • ANSNL-M030 - 'Marine environmental awareness cursus'
  • ANSNL-M031 - 'Programma Fishing for Litter'
  • ANSNL-M032 - 'Uitvoering (zwerf) afvalbeleid'
  • ANSNL-M033 - 'Vrijwillige vermindering van microplastics in cosmetica in Nederland'
  • ANSNL-M053 - 'Van Afval naar Grondstof (VANG)'
  • ANSNL-M054 - 'Raamovereenkomst Verpakkingen 2013-2022'
  • ANSNL-M055 - 'Landelijke aanpak zwerfafval'
  • ANSNL-M056 - 'Ketenakkoord kunststofkringloop'
  • ANSNL-M057 - 'Landelijk Afvalbeheerplan (LAP) 2'
  • ANSNL-M058 - 'Terugdringen van het gebruik van plastic tassen'
  • ANSNL-M062 - 'Agendering zwerfvuil bij stakeholders en in onderwijs'
  • ANSNL-M063 - 'Green Deal Schone Stranden'
  • ANSNL-M064 - 'Agendering bij waterbeheerders'
  • ANSNL-M065 - 'Stroomgebiedsgerichte aanpak zwerfvuil'
  • ANSNL-M066 - 'Uitrol Ophaalregeling zwerfvuil'
  • ANSNL-M067 - 'Green Deal Scheepsafvalketen'
  • ANSNL-M068 - 'Green Deal Visserij voor een schone zee'
  • ANSNL-M069 - 'Bewustwording in de visserijsector'
  • ANSNL-M070 - 'Bevordering van het terugdringen ballonnen'
  • ANSNL-M071 - 'Inzet op EU-verbod op emissies van microplastics in cosmetica en detergenten'
Coverage of measures
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Adequate monitoring will be in place by 2024
Related monitoring programmes
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub1-OSPAR-Beach
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-Fulmar
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-FulmarC3
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-seabed
  • ANSNL-D10-microafval
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub1-OSPAR-Beach
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-Fulmar
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-FulmarC3
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-seabed
  • ANSNL-D10-microafval
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub1-OSPAR-Beach
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-Fulmar
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-FulmarC3
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-seabed
  • ANSNL-D10-microafval
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub1-OSPAR-Beach
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-Fulmar
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-FulmarC3
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-seabed
  • ANSNL-D10-microafval
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub1-OSPAR-Beach
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-Fulmar
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-FulmarC3
  • ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-seabed
  • ANSNL-D10-microafval
Programme code
ANSNL-D10-Sub1-OSPAR-Beach
ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-Fulmar
ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-FulmarC3
ANSNL-D10-Sub2-OSPAR-seabed
ANSNL-D10-microafval
Programme name
Litter - characteristics and abundance/volume on coast, water surface, seabed
Litter - characteristics and abundance/volume on coast, water surface, seabed
Litter/micro-litter in biota
Litter - characteristics and abundance/volume on coast, water surface, seabed
Litter micro-particles - abundance/volume in water, sediment
Update type
Same programme as in 2014
Same programme as in 2014
Same programme as in 2014
New programme
New programme
Old programme codes
Programme description
To assess whether GES is achieved for criterion D10C1, information is needed on trends in the quantity and composition of litter on Dutch beaches, on the seabed and floating on the sea surface. The quantity of plastic found in the stomachs of fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis) is used as an indicator for litter on the surface layer. This indicator is also used for D10C3, which relates to the amount of litter ingested by marine animals. Because litter crosses national borders, the monitoring and assessment is regionally coordinated in OSPAR. To gain insight into the sources of pollution and the effectiveness of measures, a distinction is made between different categories of litter. The assessment is carried out at both DCS level and North Sea level. To monitor litter on beaches, surveys are conducted four times a year on four reference beaches in the municipalities of Terschelling, Bergen, Noordwijk and Veere for Rijkswaterstaat. At each location the litter is classified according to the 115 litter types in the OSPAR CEMP Guidelines (OSPAR, 2017). For each type of litter, the number of items per 100 metres is counted along the entire width of the beach. Only items of litter that are visible on the surface are counted. The survey for monitoring plastics in the stomachs of birds has been part of Rijkswaterstaat’s MWTL programme since 2004, but has been operational since 1996. The data are provided every year by volunteers of the Northern fulmar working group, who collect dead Northern fulmars that have washed up along the Dutch coast during the year. Professionals then analyse the contents of the birds’ stomachs to determine the total mass of plastic particles in grams and the total number of particles in the stomach. The plastics found are divided into consumer plastics and industrial plastics (pellets). The method is documented in the OSPAR CEMP Guidelines (OSPAR, 2019). In the coming years, Rijkswaterstaat will carry out pilot projects to develop monitoring methods for macro-litter and micro-plastics in rivers. Although they will not be part of the MSFD monitoring programme, these surveys will provide information about sources and the effectiveness of measures.
To assess whether GES is achieved for criterion D10C1, information is needed on trends in the quantity and composition of litter on Dutch beaches, on the seabed and floating on the sea surface. The quantity of plastic found in the stomachs of fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis) is used as an indicator for litter on the surface layer. This indicator is also used for D10C3, which relates to the amount of litter ingested by marine animals. Because litter crosses national borders, the monitoring and assessment is regionally coordinated in OSPAR. To gain insight into the sources of pollution and the effectiveness of measures, a distinction is made between different categories of litter. The assessment is carried out at both DCS level and North Sea level. The survey for monitoring plastics in the stomachs of birds has been part of Rijkswaterstaat’s MWTL programme since 2004, but has been operational since 1996. The data are provided every year by volunteers of the Northern fulmar working group, who collect dead Northern fulmars that have washed up along the Dutch coast during the year. Professionals then analyse the contents of the birds’ stomachs to determine the total mass of plastic particles in grams and the total number of particles in the stomach. The plastics found are divided into consumer plastics and industrial plastics (pellets). The method is documented in the OSPAR CEMP Guidelines (OSPAR, 2019). In the coming years, Rijkswaterstaat will carry out pilot projects to develop monitoring methods for macro-litter and micro-plastics in rivers. Although they will not be part of the MSFD monitoring programme, these surveys will provide information about sources and the effectiveness of measures.
To assess whether GES is achieved for criterion D10C1, information is needed on trends in the quantity and composition of litter on Dutch beaches, on the seabed and floating on the sea surface. The quantity of plastic found in the stomachs of fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis) is used as an indicator for litter on the surface layer. This indicator is also used for D10C3, which relates to the amount of litter ingested by marine animals. Because litter crosses national borders, the monitoring and assessment is regionally coordinated in OSPAR. To gain insight into the sources of pollution and the effectiveness of measures, a distinction is made between different categories of litter. The assessment is carried out at both DCS level and North Sea level. The survey for monitoring plastics in the stomachs of birds has been part of Rijkswaterstaat’s MWTL programme since 2004, but has been operational since 1996. The data are provided every year by volunteers of the Northern fulmar working group, who collect dead Northern fulmars that have washed up along the Dutch coast during the year. Professionals then analyse the contents of the birds’ stomachs to determine the total mass of plastic particles in grams and the total number of particles in the stomach. The plastics found are divided into consumer plastics and industrial plastics (pellets). The method is documented in the OSPAR CEMP Guidelines (OSPAR, 2019). In the coming years, Rijkswaterstaat will carry out pilot projects to develop monitoring methods for macro-litter and micro-plastics in rivers. Although they will not be part of the MSFD monitoring programme, these surveys will provide information about sources and the effectiveness of measures.
To assess whether GES is achieved for criterion D10C1, information is needed on trends in the quantity and composition of litter on Dutch beaches, on the seabed and floating on the sea surface. The quantity of plastic found in the stomachs of fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis) is used as an indicator for litter on the surface layer. This indicator is also used for D10C3, which relates to the amount of litter ingested by marine animals. Because litter crosses national borders, the monitoring and assessment is regionally coordinated in OSPAR. To gain insight into the sources of pollution and the effectiveness of measures, a distinction is made between different categories of litter. The assessment is carried out at both DCS level and North Sea level. Since 2013, litter on the seabed has been collected as ‘bycatch’ during the International Bottom Trawl Survey (IBTS). The IBTS monitoring is carried out every year for the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality for the purposes of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). For the IBTS, ICES quadrants (areas of roughly 56 x 56 km) are sampled with a standard bottom trawl, the Grand Ouverture Verticale (GOV). Every area is fished in accordance with the standard ICES protocol. Litter that surfaces in the process is classified according to a list of forty types of litter. The number of items of each type of litter is registered during each 30-minute trawl, and the swept area is calculated, leading to litter counts per km2. The method to be used is laid down in the OSPAR CEMP Guidelines (OSPAR, 2017). In the coming years, Rijkswaterstaat will carry out pilot projects to develop monitoring methods for macro-litter and micro-plastics in rivers. Although they will not be part of the MSFD monitoring programme, these surveys will provide information about sources and the effectiveness of measures.
No GES has yet been established for micro-litter (D10C2), but OSPAR is expected to formulate an indicator in 2020. A new monitoring survey for micro-litter in sediment is expected to be launched at the beginning of 2021. The survey to be developed for monitoring at sea will have to be compatible with the technical specifications that are ultimately adopted in OSPAR’s CEMP Guidelines. Although not yet finalised, the following specifications are being considered: • Spatial coverage: the DCS will be sampled at multiple locations, with the greatest density in the coastal zone since that is where the largest concentrations are. • Monitoring frequency: a limited number of locations in the coastal zone will be sampled annually to allow for an analysis of the trend after five years of measurements. Monitoring every three years is sufficient for the other locations. • Method: methods being considered to allow quantitative analysis are sampling with box core (subtidal) or trowel (intertidal). Parameters: the total number of microplastic particles in each sample and the total mass (per kg dry weight) will be determined in the sand fraction. Only the top layer (to a depth of 5 cm) will be sampled because that is where the highest concentration of microplastics occur and the greatest changes are observed. The upper size limit for microplastic particles is 5 mm.
Monitoring purpose
  • Effectiveness of measures
  • Pressures in the marine environment
  • Effectiveness of measures
  • Pressures in the marine environment
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Pressures in the marine environment
  • Pressures in the marine environment
  • Pressures in the marine environment
Other policies and conventions
  • OSPAR Coordinated Environmental Monitoring Programme
  • OSPAR Coordinated Environmental Monitoring Programme
  • OSPAR Coordinated Environmental Monitoring Programme
  • OSPAR Coordinated Environmental Monitoring Programme
  • OSPAR Coordinated Environmental Monitoring Programme
Regional cooperation - coordinating body
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
Regional cooperation - countries involved
NL
NL
Regional cooperation - implementation level
Coordinated data collection
Coordinated data collection
Coordinated data collection
Coordinated data collection
Agreed data collection methods
Monitoring details
To monitor litter on beaches, surveys are conducted four times a year on four reference beaches in the municipalities of Terschelling, Bergen, Noordwijk and Veere for Rijkswaterstaat. At each location the litter is classified according to the 115 litter types in the OSPAR CEMP Guidelines (OSPAR, 2017). For each type of litter, the number of items per 100 metres is counted along the entire width of the beach. Only items of litter that are visible on the surface are counted.
Features
Litter in the environment
Litter in the environment
Litter and micro-litter in species
Litter in the environment
Micro-litter in the environment
Litter in the environment
Litter in the environment
Litter and micro-litter in species
Litter in the environment
Micro-litter in the environment
Litter in the environment
Litter in the environment
Litter and micro-litter in species
Litter in the environment
Micro-litter in the environment
Litter in the environment
Litter in the environment
Litter and micro-litter in species
Litter in the environment
Micro-litter in the environment
Elements
  • Artificial polymer materials
  • Ceramics/pottery
  • Cloth/textile
  • Glass/ceramics
  • Medical waste
  • Metal
  • Paper/cardboard
  • Processed/worked wood
  • Rubber
  • Sanitary waste
  • Artificial polymer materials
  • Artificial polymer materials
  • Artificial polymer materials
  • Glass/ceramics
  • Metal
  • Other materials
  • Rubber
  • Artificial polymer materials
GES criteria
D10C1
D10C1
D10C3
D10C1
D10C2
Parameters
  • Amount on coastline
  • Mass
  • Mass
  • Amount on seabed
  • Concentration in sediment (total)
  • Mass
Parameter Other
Spatial scope
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • Beyond MS Marine Waters
  • EEZ (or similar)
Marine reporting units
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
  • L1.2
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
  • L1.2
  • L1.2
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
Temporal scope (start date - end date)
2001-9999
1996-9999
1996-9999
2013-9999
2021-9999
Monitoring frequency
3-monthly
Continually
Continually
Yearly
3-yearly
Monitoring type
  • In-situ sampling land/beach
  • In-situ sampling land/beach
  • In-situ sampling land/beach
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling offshore
Monitoring method
  • OSPAR CEMP Guidelines for monitoring marine litter washed ashore and/or deposited on coastlines (beach litter)
  • OSPAR Coordinated Environmental Monitoring Programme (CEMP) Guidelines for Monitoring and Assessment of plastic particles in stomachs of fulmars in the North Sea area
  • OSPAR Coordinated Environmental Monitoring Programme (CEMP) Guidelines for Monitoring and Assessment of plastic particles in stomachs of fulmars in the North Sea area
  • OSPAR CEMP Guidelines on Litter on the Seafloor
  • Other monitoring method
Monitoring method other
Microplastics were not previously covered in the MSFD monitoring programme. On the basis of technical specifications and in consultation with OSPAR, Rijkswaterstaat is developing a monitoring method and monitoring network survey for microplastics in sediment. The method is expected to be operational from the beginning of 2021. International coordination takes place under the auspices of OSPAR; to which the MSFD monitoring programme is linked as closely as possible. In recent years, a lot has been learned about the presence, the analysis and the effects of microplastics in national and international research programmes, including JPI Oceans, EU programmes and in the context of regional marine sea conventions. The OSPAR microplastic expert group is currently working to construct OSPAR CEMP guidelines for monitoring of microplastics in marine sediment. The finalization of these CEMP guidelines is expected no sooner than in 2022, because many countries are still gaining experience with this new type of monitoring. With these CEMP guidelines, a common OSPAR indicator for microplastics in marine sediment will be established. The monitoring of emissions of microplastics is still in the research phase. Various long-term research programmes are underway in the Netherlands, including the TRAMP project financed by the Technology Foundation STW.58 Steps will be taken in the coming years to develop a first monitoring programme for microplastics in fresh water, primarily designed to determine and model the microplastics mass load.
Quality control
Monitoring of litter on the beach is carried out by the North Sea Foundation on behalf of RWS. The measurements are carried out by experienced employees according to strict OSPAR protocols. The results are processed annually into an extensive report with static analyzes and trend calculations. http://publicaties.minienm.nl/download-bijlage/96367/bm-18-15-ospar-beach-litter-monitoring-in-the-netherlands-2012-2017-annual-report.pdf
The monitoring of plastics in petrels is carried out by Wageningen Marine Research according to an internationally agreed method. The results are processed annually into an extensive report with static analysis and trend calculations. Ongoing data quality by OSPAR-ICG-ML and OSPAR secretariat.
The monitoring of plastics in petrels is carried out by Wageningen Marine Research according to an internationally agreed method. The results are processed annually into an extensive report with static analysis and trend calculations. Ongoing data quality by OSPAR-ICG-ML and OSPAR secretariat.
Monitoring of litter on the seabed is part of the IBTS survey and is coordinated by ICES. This monitoring is relatively new and not yet fully developed, which means that the quality of the collected data can be further improved.
The monitoring of microplastics is still under development. Data quality control has not yet been organized for this monitoring.
Data management
Marine Information and Data Centre
Marine Information and Data Centre
Marine Information and Data Centre
Marine Information and Data Centre
Data access
not yet available
Related indicator/name
Contact
https://www.informatiehuismarien.nl/uk/secundaire-navigatie/contact/
https://www.informatiehuismarien.nl/uk/secundaire-navigatie/contact/
https://www.informatiehuismarien.nl/uk/secundaire-navigatie/contact/
https://www.informatiehuismarien.nl/uk/secundaire-navigatie/contact/
References
Van Hal R. (2019) Dutch seafloor litter monitoring North Sea. International Bottom Trawl Survey 2019. Wageningen Marine Research, IJmuiden.
OSPAR (2018) Proposal for a candidate indicator on micro litter in sediments. Accepted by EIHA Committee.