The effect of fishing vessels exhaust emissions on the air quality on the vessel

In the İskenderun Bay, between the years 2018-2022, this thesis work was carried out by evaluating the data to comprehensively analyze the emission levels of trawl and purse seiner fishing boats operating in the region. Accordingly, during this four-year period, detailed emission estimates were made for six different regions, and the results were elaborated annually. The analyzed data indicates a significant reduction in emission amounts, particularly in purse seiner fishing. This noticeable reduction, more evident than in trawling, is perceived as a consequence of the changes in the fishing dynamics of the region. When regional analyses are reviewed, trawling activities between İskenderun and Arsuz are determined to be more dominant compared to the purse seiner fishing near Dörtyol. In the second phase of the thesis, a total of 10 fishing boats (7 trawlers, 3 purse seiners) were examined in detail. The emission measurements taken during the different operational phases of these ships (harbor maneuvering, cruising, breaks, and trawling) were evaluated separately for various parts of the vessel, including the deck, captain's bridge, dining hall, cabins, and the engine room. vii These measurements revealed that, especially in situations where the wind direction is adverse, crew members working on the ship's deck are exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide. Furthermore, it was observed that the carbon monoxide levels in some ships' engine rooms exceed internationally accepted limits, posing potential health risks. In general, the results of this thesis work provide a detailed insight into the environmental and health-related impacts of fishing activities in the İskenderun Bay. At the same time, by offering critical data about the region's fishing dynamics and management, it lays a scientific foundation for promoting sustainable fishing practices. This research serves as a valuable reference for shaping fishing policies at both regional and national levels