Biota Guard - use of a real-time multi sensor array (incl. biosensors) to refine oil spill models.

Biota Guard aims to supplement existing tools related to oil spill modeling by propagating increased ecosystem understanding. The DREAM and OSCAR models will be at the heart of such an effort, while integration with new initiatives, e.g. SYMBIOSES, also w ill be evaluated. The numerical model DREAM (Dose-related Risk and Effects Assessment) has been developed at SINTEF with support from oil operator companies. The model is a decision support tool for management of operational discharges to the marine env ironment. DREAM is integrated with the oil spill model OSCAR (Oil Spill Contingency and Response) within a graphical user interface. The software tools and the associated risk assessment methodologies were designed and developed to support management of e nvironmental risks associated with operational discharges of complex mixtures. The system has been in continuous development for the past 15 years. By including the response of a real-time biosensor as well as the supplementing physical- and chemical sen sors found in the Biota Guard subsea sensor array, this would would give further insight to tune the modeling tools through real-time updates. A key output from the OSCAR model today include e.g. modeled biological implications, and a deployed solution w ould provide immediate feedback and validate such results. The sensor arrays are mobile (ca 150kg), and Biota Guard's Expert Center with advanced analytical methods can create flexible interfaces and integration. A main project could also include work packages related to maximizing the value of biological data. Key components for improvements in the analytical methodology relate to multivariate analysis and application of Dynamic Energy Budget theory to ecotoxicological test results (DEBtox). In light of the long history behind the oil spill models and the many ongoing initiatives related to their development, securing cooperation with SINTEF and IRIS (advanced discussions ongoing) is key.