European Margin Sediment Dynamics. This item is unavailable.European Margin Sediment Dynamics

Since the 1990s, when the European Commission ner similar to aerial photography. It should be kept started under the Marine Science and Technology in mind, that each of the continental margin sur- (MAST) programme funding for multinational veys between Svalbard in the north and the Ca- continental margin research, increased investiga- naries in the south, called for the team work of sci- tions of the seabed provided new insights into entists and seamen on numerous research vessels large-scale sedimentary processes shaping the Eu- under weather conditions ranging from severe ropean continental margin. It is a field of perma- storms to calm seas. To perform this kind of nent learning and underwater endeavour. community wide research activity demanded the Seabed characterisation and studies of sedi- participation of a major part of the European ment dynamics improved our understanding of research fleet supported by their national govern- the complexity of processes transporting large ments. masses of sediments over distances from metres to Apart from that the scientific results of the hundred of kilometres on the continental slope.

This book provides acoustic images about sedimentary systems of the shelf edge, slope and deep-sea-floor. Data obtained by the European North Atlantic Margin and the STEAM Project shows areas of potential instability and deepwater sediment transport systems on the continental slope. The knowledge gained can be used by both academia and hydrocarbon industry so as to arrive at a better understanding of continental margins and the processes shaping them. It will also interest colleagues in earth sciences involved in margin surveys for environmental studies. The current global trend in marine resource development is to move into deeper water, and this book can provide examples relevant to other passive margins around the world. There is a growing need for reliable measurements in deep water and knowledge related to stabilisation. Slope stability problems will be identified with greater reliability, thus improving safety standards for coastal and offshore environmental policies.