Assessing the Environmental Impact of Busan New Port Construction in Korea: A Comprehensive Analysis of Water Quality Changes and Suspended Solids in Jinhae Bay

This study investigates the impact of port construction on suspended solid concentrations and key water quality parameters in Jinhae Bay, using seventeen years of water quality data up to 2020. The study highlights the significant impact of suspended solids on marine water quality, particularly in areas affected by dredging operations at Busan New Port. Suspended solids concentrations peaked at 92 mg/L, exceeding 10 mg/L in both surface and bottom waters, with the highest levels near the port. These solids were identified as key predictors of coastal eutrophication in locations such as Jinhae Bay 01, 17, 19, where positive correlations with Chl-a suggest their role in promoting eutrophication. The highest average Chl-a levels were recorded at Jinhae Bay 01 (9.82 µg/L), while the lowest were at Jinhae Bay 14 (3.2 µg/L). The WQI, ranged from 1 to 3, with Jinhae Bay 19 showing the highest value and Jinhae Bay 14 the lowest due to low dissolved oxygen levels. Using ARIMA modeling, the study effectively analyzed the time-series dynamics of suspended solids, demonstrating their relationships with Chl-a and WQI components. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring and managing suspended solids to mitigate the risk of eutrophication and protect marine ecosystems in the context of port development.