Heavy metals in surficial coastal sediments of the Ligurian Sea

The coastal area of the Ligurian Sea is densely populated and characterised by the presence of a variety of economic activities, such as harbours, industrial plants and tourism facilities which are likely to release heavy metals into the environment. By measuring concentrations of heavy metals in bottom sediments, insight can be provided on the sources, mechanisms of transport and distribution, sites of accumulation, as well as on the quality of the environment and the potential threats to marine organisms and human beings.