Environmental Pollution in Belgium and Implications for Aquatic Health

Abstract Pollution is one of the primary contributors to the decline of biodiversity, and one of the most significant challenges facing the aquatic environment. Aquatic pollution comes from introducing a wide variety of substances negatively impacting the water bodies. Although Belgium's aquaculture and fisheries industry are underdeveloped and production is relatively low, pollutants from the environment and industry can affect the aquatic ecosystems and the behaviour of aquatic species. Therefore, research into the freshwater and marine environment is an essential component of assessing the levels of environmental pollution and proffering sustainable management and restoration practices. This study aims to present an in-depth assessment of aquatic pollution and its impacts on aquaculture and fisheries species. This review identified various studies on aquatic pollution in Belgium and discussed their implications on aquatic health. It covered surface water, groundwater, nutrient, oil, debris, microplastic, and sediment pollution across various sampling locations. This study identified a need to establish a framework for river basins in Belgium to allow for more accurate predictions regarding where land changes pose a considerable threat to aquatic populations. Furthermore, studies on microplastic pollution in the future should incorporate freshwater, estuarine, and terrestrial settings. Findings from such studies will allow for a better understanding of the whole scope of microplastic pollution.