Computational Simulation of the Impact of Wastewater Emitters on Coastal Marine Ecosystems

Abstract

This article analyzes the environmental impact of submarine wastewater outfalls on coastal marine ecosystems through a computational simulation approach implemented in Python. A stationary analytical model of advection–diffusion–reaction is used to represent contaminant dispersion in the far-field region of the discharge plume. Two scenarios are compared: a base scenario representing current conditions, and a mitigation scenario involving reduced contaminant load, increased depth, and improved initial dilution. The results show significant differences in concentration levels, area exceeding an environmental threshold, and compliance distance. These findings support the use of simple and accessible numerical models as a decision-support tool for outfall design, environmental assessment, and coastal management in vulnerable areas.