A Review of Publicly Available Environmental Monitoring Reports for Two ‘Open Loop’ LNG Regasifiers Operating in Italian Coastal Waters
Abstract:
This article reviews publicly available environmental monitoring reports for two "open loop" Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) regasification plants operating in Italian coastal waters: Porto Viro (Veneto region, in operation since September 2009) and Livorno (Tuscany region, in operation since October 2013). These plants are key infra structure for Italy’s energy independence. This review was undertaken to assess the effectiveness of the current monitoring programs and suggest potential improvements. Based on the information reviewed, it was found that many of the contaminants being analyzed were consistently below the limits of quantification and did not provide useful data for understanding the potential impact of the plants’ emissions. Additionally, this review found that the concentration of oxidizing chlorination residuals (CPOs, TROs) was not being measured, despite its importance in assessing potential harm to marine organisms. Furthermore, analysis of recent 2023 reports reveals notable shifts in meiofauna populations near both plant discharge sites. Specifically, a reduction in copepod diversity and an in crease in nematode abundance were observed, potentially indicating stress from thermal and chemical discharges. These findings contrast with earlier 2012 reports, suggesting a potential cumulative impact over time. This article concludes by recommending the implementation of a peer-review process for both the monitoring schemes and the periodic monitoring reports, and suggests that future monitoring efforts should prioritize the analysis of the most relevant parameters and indicators, including CPOs/TROs and a comprehensive assessment of meiofauna com munity structure. Incorporating detailed meiofauna analysis into ongoing monitoring will provide a more accurate and sensitive evaluation of the long-term ecological effects of LNG regasification plant operations.
