Metal Pollution in Coastal Sediments

Coastal sediment is a vital habitat for aquatic and marine life in coastal ecosystem. However, urbanization and economic development in coastal areas have resulted in environmental problems globally. Due to coastal development such as new industrial facilities and commercial port expansion, anthropogenic metals are introduced to the adjacent areas. Therefore, metal pollution in coastal areas is one of the focused environmental concerns. Sediment quality in coastal zone reflects the long-term environmental status because it keeps a record of the development in the area. In this review paper, sediment metal concentrations in 52 selected sites worldwide are summarized for evaluation of the coastal environmental quality. The results from this study can be applied to science-based policy formulation and ecological restoration/rehabilitation practices in an integrated coastal zone environmental management.