Spatiotemporal Evolution and Integrated Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Element Pollution in Coastal Waters: A Case Study of Bohai Bay Cases in China.

ABSTRACT: Under the increasing pressures of land-based pollution and intensive coastal development, marine ecosystems are facing unprecedented challenges, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced protection and management of marine environmental quality. This study examines the spatiotemporal distribution and pollution risks of seven potentially toxic elements (Hg, Cd, Pb, Cr, As, Zn, and Cu) in the coastal waters of Bohai Bay, China, based on monitoring data collected from 2020 to 2023. Results show a significant decline in annual average concentrations of Pb (from 3.23 ± 1.11 μg/L to 0.10 ± 0.06 μg/L) and Hg (from 0.05 ± 0.02 μg/L to 0.01 ± 0.00 μg/L), reflecting effective pollution control measures. In contrast, Cu concentrations nearly doubled, rising from 0.90 ± 0.50 μg/L in 2020 to 1.98 ± 0.4

SUBMITTER: Qu L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12568268 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature