
Contaminated sediment
Contaminated sediment refers to soils and sediments found in water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans, that are polluted with harmful substances. These contaminants can include chemicals, heavy metals, and organic materials that have settled to the bottom over time. They often come from industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and urban waste. Contaminated sediment poses risks to aquatic life, can enter the food chain, and may affect human health and environmental quality. Remediation efforts are often needed to clean up these areas to restore ecological balance and ensure safe water use.