An Assessment of Metals (Pb and Cu) Contamination in Bottom Sediment from South China Sea Coastal Waters, Malaysia

Abstract

Problem statement: The accumulation of metal contaminants in sediments can pose serious environmental problems to the surrounding areas. Tr ace metal contamination in sediment could affect the water quality and the bio-assimilation and bioa ccumulation of metals in aquatic organisms, resulting in potential long-term implications on hu man health and ecosystem. Approach: About 154 bottom sediment samples were collected using Smith McIntyre in a transect pattern from South China Sea East Coast coastal water (Terengganu, Pahang and Johor coastal area). The study focused on the levels of Pb and Cu in order to assess the extent o f environment pollution and to discuss the origin o f these contaminants in the sediment. Results: Results showed that the average concentration of P b and Cu was 33.70 µg g -1 dry weights and 22.40 µg g -1 dry weights, respectively. Pb and Cu have relative ly lower Enrichment Factors (EF) value and geo-accumulation (I geo ) indices in study area and these analysis validated that elevated heavy metals conce ntration in most sample are not due to artificial contamination. Conclusion: Overall, geochemistry of the samples showed the ef fect of both natural and anthropogenic inputs to the catchment, however, natural processes were more dominant than anthropogenic inputs in concentrating metals. Resul ts obtained would help to develop strategies for pollution control and sediment remediation of coast al waters in the South China Sea.