Mathematical models for the study, monitoring and management of the North Sea

A general interdisciplinary model of the North Sea is presented. The model, which integrates the contributions of many neighbouring countries under the coordination of the Joint North Sea Modelling Group, feeds a hierarchy of submodels. These models, progressing from the description of transient and residual circulations to the dynamics of coastal ecosystems and the translocation of pollutants through the food chain, provide the material for continental seas and coastal management. Detailed results concerning the Southern Bight of the Morth Sea and the Belgian Coastal waters are given in illustration.