Sepetiba Bay: A Case Study of the Environmental Geochemistry of Heavy Metals in a Subtropical Coastal Lagoon

摘要: Major human civilisations have preferably developed along coastal areas, assumed as natural receptors of wastes from their activities. Tropical and sub-tropical coasts, in particular, typically been this case, since during most the last two centuries colony status demanded harbour facilities commercial cities to export raw materials colonial capitals Europe. Although evidence environmental depreciation has existed for many centuries, a significant worsening conditions ecosystems deterioration is only evident after industrialisation accelerated population growth ex-colonies first half century. The was so large that, starting 1960s, increasing public pressure resulted creation various regulations national international conventions cope with problem. This, together worldwide substitution “dirty” technologies, past 30 years general decrease pollutant emissions. Notwithstanding, degree contamination areas hasn’t decreased same velocity remained or even increased when compared situation late 1970s. This fact suggests that properties may result concentrations pollutants emissions are very low functional processes able keep under permanent remobilisation. seems probable dealing tropical ecosystems.