GESAMP: Atmospheric Input of Trace Species to the World Oceans - UNEP Regional Seas Reports and Studies No. 119. GESAMP Reports and Studies No. 38

This report examines the transfer of chemical substances from the atmosphere to the world’s oceans and assesses their global deposition. It was developed through an international scientific workshop and subsequent expert collaboration aimed at estimating atmospheric inputs of trace substances to marine environments. The assessment compiles available atmospheric concentration data and applies indirect calculation methods to estimate deposition rates because direct measurements are limited. Fluxes are calculated for ocean regions using concentration fields, exchange coefficients, and precipitation data. The study evaluates three main groups of substances: trace elements and mineral aerosols, nitrogen species, and synthetic organic compounds. Results provide comparative estimates of atmospheric contributions relative to river inputs and highlight uncertainties caused by limited measurements and variable environmental conditions.