RT journal article
T1 Source and Fate of Heavy Metals in Marine Sediments from a Semi-Enclosed Deep Embayment Subjected to Severe Anthropogenic Activities
A1 González Fernández, Daniel
A1 Garrido Pérez, Carmen
A1 Sales Márquez, Diego
A1 Nebot Sanz, Enrique
A2 Biología
A2 Tecnologías del Medio Ambiente
AB Urban and industrial activities are major sources of pollution to marine environments. Sediments can act as sink and reservoir for a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals. Environmental quality assessment in this compartment can provide useful information to control pollution in coastal areas. Lately, implementation of Environmental Legislative Frameworks within the European Community is increasing awareness about the importance of marine sediment quality in order to achieve a “Good Environmental Status.” In this work, the study of superficial marine sediments allowed assessment of source and fate of heavy metals in a semi-enclosed deep embayment that is subjected to severe anthropogenic activities. Results indicated that accumulation of heavy metals takes place mainly in proximity to anthropogenic sources (industrial area and harbors), but pollution can also spread to greater depths affecting the whole ecosystem. Multivariate statistics helped identify source and fate of several elements, showing evidence of pollutants transfer from urban wastewaters, industrial effluents, and atmospheric emissions to marine sediments. Results provided useful information for the implementation and development of Environmental Management Strategies under European Legislative Frameworks.
PB Springer
SN 0049-6979
YR 2011
FD 2011-03
LK http://hdl.handle.net/10498/35098
UL http://hdl.handle.net/10498/35098
LA eng
DS Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Cádiz
RD 07-nov-2026