A novel approach to model exposure of coastal-marine ecosystems to riverine flood plumes based on remote sensing techniques

► Classification of true-color satellite images can be used to map river plumes. ► This method is also useful to qualitatively assess dispersal of river-borne pollutants. ► Our results indicate large spatial-temporal variation in exposure to pollutants. ► Our model can be applied to monitor exposure of marine ecosystems to plumes. ► Combined with data on pollutant sources, our model can guide catchment management.