An evaluation of the pollution level in saronic gulf waters

Abstract

The need to monitor and control pollution in closed seas receiving a large number of anthropogenic pollutants, has prompted us to carry out this work. Analyses of sea water are routinely performed in order to monitor the level of contamination of the marine environment by various pollution factors. This work is a part of a long term, large scale environmental study concerning areas of the Saronic Gulf, in Greece, with marinas, recreational beaches and provides information on the pollution level and its course over time. Several physical and chemical parameters were determined and were compared with those estimated for locations in investigations carried out in previous years. It can be seen from the experimental results that most locations are substantially polluted. The organic pollutant and heavy metal content were very high. The level of metals measured was found at approximately the same level with previous measurements with the exception of Fe which was found to accumulate over the years.