On approaches of estuarine ecosystems health studies

This paper presents some points of view on the approach of estuarine ecosystem health scientific research based project experience of the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences (CRAES). A practical approach (functional zone designation, classification, grading and scheduling) is introduced for managing estuarine ecosystem health at the drainage basin scale. The importance of habitat assessment and functional zone designation is emphasized. The principles for selecting evaluation indicators are presented. The paper noted that Chinese national environmental quality standards should be further developed for emerging pollutants. Special attention should be given to sediment which is important contamination carriers and potential pollution sources.