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Contaminants in Coastal Waters
Marine sediments accumulate many chemical pollutants that are released into coastal waters. As contaminants enter the water column, they can attach to suspended particles and sink to the bottom.
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| Potential sources of contaminants in coastal sediments. Courtesy: U.S. Geological Survey |
Contaminants found in marine sediments represent many different types of compounds. Some chemicals, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), are emitted during industrial processes. Pesticides (such as dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene [DDT] and organophosphates) and herbicides enter the water column through runoff from agricultural areas. Petroleum residues are washed from roadways and sewers into streams and rivers, which then flow into coastal waters. Metal contamination can enter the ocean from a variety of sources including lead paint and mines. Residues from anti-fouling paint used on ships and docks may also contaminate marine sediments.