Sediment-bound Metallic Contaminants in Sydney’s Estuaries and Adjacent Offshore, Australia

摘要: Abstract Almost one-quarter of Australia’s population 17 million and a large proportion its industry are concentrated in the restricted area Greater Metropolitan Sydney. Heavy metal loadings surficial sediment which mantles four deeply incised estuaries dissecting this region adjacent continental shelf being investigated to determine potential sources, understand processes dispersion accumulation. The Parramatta River/Port Jackson Georges River/Botany Bay have been major repositories for urban/industrial waste heavily impacted by anthropogenic metalliferous (Cu, Zn, Ni, Pb) loadings. majority estuarine areas greatly excess background values. most elevated regions upper reaches bay ends. Generally, central sections these less elevated, but still above values, whereas some metals, lower mouth approach In limited parts inner shelf, metals values close background. strong down-estuary decline levels marine environment is probably source-related, rather than due dilution enriched coarse sediment. source offshore enrichment coastal sewage outfalls and/or dissolved suspended material escaping estuaries. Marginally concentrations on that observed estuary, indicative sourcing from outfalls. terms public health, estuary guidelines, tributaries ends both markedly all elements. Offshore sediments mostly within guideline levels.