EXTENT OF CONTAMINATED MARINE SEDIMENTS AND CLEANUP METHODOLOGY

Abstract

The problem of contaminated marine sediments has emerged as an environmental issue of national importance. Harbor areas in particular have been found to contain high levels of contaminants in bottom sediments due to wastes from municipal, industrial and riverine sources. The paper examines the extent and significance of marine sediment contamination in the United States; reviews the state-of-the-art of contaminated sediment cleanup and identifies research and development needs.