Multidimensional risk analysis of antifouling biocides

In order to improve the orientation about the long-term sustainability of t he use of the antifouling biocides tributyltin (TBT), copper, Irgarol(R) 10 51, Sea-Nine(TM) 211 acid zinc pyrithione, used for the protection of fouli ng in sea-going ships, the risks posed to the marine biosphere due to their use are evaluated. The newly presented method. of risk analysis uses relea se rate, spatiotemporal range, bioaccumulation, bioactivity and uncertainty as 5 dimensions of ecotoxicological risk. For each dimension, a scoring pr ocedure is briefly described. The resulting risk profiles of the antifoulin g biocides show characteristics of the different substances, but also indic ate where further information is required. Application of the method is pro posed as a decision support in the integrated development of products, info rmed purchasing and for regulatory purposes.