Geochemical mapping of bottom sediments as an aid to marine waste disposal in Hong Kong

Abstract

Geochemical maps of bottom sediments are used as an aid to marine waste disposal. In Victoria Harbour, tidal flushing is slowly removing only a small fraction of the effluents received. In Tolo Harbour, the accumulation of natural inputs of lead and zinc in the bottom sediments appears to be assisted by the eutrophic effects of organic agricultural wastes. Copper shows a strong positive correlation with organic carbon and is a good natural tracer of sewage dispersion. Geochemical maps provide indications of the long term sediment dispersion pattern. The use of heavy metals as a 'natural' tracer is an important advantage over hydrographic surveys. | Geochemical maps of bottom sediments are used as an aid to marine waste disposal. In Victoria Harbor, tidal flushing is slowly removing only a small fraction of the effluents received. In Tolo Harbor, the accumulation of natural inputs of lead and zinc in the bottom sediments appears to be assisted by the eutrophic effects of organic agricultural wastes. Copper shows a strong positive correlation with organic carbon and is a good natural tracer of sewage dispersion. Geochemical maps provide indications of the long term sediment dispersion pattern. The use of heavy metals as a 'natural' tracer is an important advantage over hydrographic surveys.