title: Source characterization and spatio-temporal evolution of the metal pollution in the sediments of the Basque estuaries (Bay of Biscay).
abstract: According to Water Framework Directive requirements, Member States must identify and analyze effects derived from human pressures in aquatic systems. As different kind of pressures can impact water bodies at different scales, analyses of spatio-temporal evolution of water bodies becomes essential in order to understand ecosystem responses. In this investigation, an analysis of spatio-temporal evolution of sedimentary metal pollution (Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn) in 12 Basque estuaries (Bay of Biscay) is presented. Data collected in extensive sampling surveys is the basis for the GIS-based statistical approach used. The implementation of pollution abatement measures is reflected in a long-term decontamination process, mostly evident in estuaries with highest historical sediment pollution levels. Spatial evolution is determined by either naturally occurring or human driven processes. Such spatial processes are more obviously being reflected in estuaries with lower historical sediment pollution levels.
authors.affiliation: AZTI-Tecnalia, Marine Research Division, Herrera Kaia, Portualdea z/g, 20110 Pasaia, Spain. ilegorburu@azti.es
authors.forename: Irati
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Legorburu
authors.forename: José Germán
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Rodríguez
authors.forename: Angel
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Borja
authors.forename: Iratxe
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Menchaca
authors.forename: Oihana
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Solaun
authors.forename: Victoriano
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Valencia
authors.forename: Ibon
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Galparsoro
authors.forename: Joana
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Larreta
mesh_terms: D061006:Bays / Q000737:chemistry*; D017753:Ecosystem; D004784:Environmental Monitoring; D063366:Estuaries; D040362:Geographic Information Systems; D019015:Geologic Sediments / Q000737:chemistry*; D008670:Metals / Q000032:analysis*; D013030:Spain; D062206:Spatial Analysis; D014874:Water Pollutants, Chemical / Q000032:analysis*; D014877:Water Pollution, Chemical / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*
chemical_list: D008670:Metals; D014874:Water Pollutants, Chemical