Spatial and temporal distribution of mercury in the recent sediments of the Adriatic Sea

Recent sediments in the Adriatic Sea reveal significant mercury (Hg) contamination, with coastal areas near the Gulf of Trieste showing particularly high levels due to prolonged mining activities and industrial discharges. The study integrated two datasets—surface sediment samples and short cores—to map Hg distribution across the basin, identifying multiple anthropogenic sources dating back to the sixteenth century. While Hg concentrations have declined in recent decades, indicating a recovery phase, some areas like Otranto Strait show delayed contamination signals from northern sources. This research highlights the long-lasting impacts of historical mercury emissions and the complex dynamics of sedimentary Hg transport.

(Ed.). (2019). Congresso SIMP-SGI-SOGEI 2019 - Il tempo del pianeta Terra e il tempo dell’uomo: Le geoscienze fra passato e futuro. https://doi.org/10.3301/absgi.2019.05