Environmental availability of potentially toxic elements in estuarine sediments of the Cananéia-Iguape coastal system, Southeastern Brazil

Mar Pollut Bull. 2016 Feb 15;103(1-2):260-269. doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.12.011. Epub 2015 Dec 18.

Abstract

The Cananéia-Iguape system is located in a Southeastern Brazilian coastal region, acknowledged by UNESCO as Biosphere Reserve of the Atlantic Rainforest. This system underwent important environmental changes due to the opening of the artificial channel of Valo Grande and by past intensive Pb ore mining activities. In view of this scenario, this study evaluated Cu, Pb and Zn availability in sediments from Cananéia-Iguape system, based on the content associated with the main components of the sediments. Moreover, in order to assess local contamination, the metals' contents were compared to Canadian quality guidelines, the past levels of metals preceding the mining activities and background sediment values. Concerning Cu and Zn in a state of chemical remobilization, both elements would possibly present no harm to the local communities. However, Pb available content exceeded the comparison values in various sampling sites, suggesting the need of monitoring regarding its bioavailability.

Keywords: Metals; Mining; Sequential extraction; Valo Grande.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Brazil
  • Canada
  • Copper / analysis
  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Geologic Sediments / chemistry*
  • Lead / analysis
  • Metals, Heavy / analysis*
  • Mining
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / analysis*
  • Water Quality*
  • Zinc / analysis

Substances

  • Metals, Heavy
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical
  • Lead
  • Copper
  • Zinc