Heavy Metal Pollution in Sediments and Waters of the Penang River, Malaysia

Abstract

Abstract The concentrations of zinc, copper, lead and nickel in the Penang River and its tributaries were determined to assess the extent of heavy metal pollution, and to evaluate which compartment provides a better indicator for heavy metal pollution. The results indicate that the concentrations of total and non-residual heavy metals in sediments increase significantly towards the estuary of the river. This trend is, however, not obvious for heavy metals in the river water. The data indicate that assessment of heavy metal pollution in rivers could be made by using the data of heavy metal levels in river sediments. It is suggested that non-residual heavy metal levels in sediments give the best indication of anthropogenic input of heavy metals to river systems.