Assessment of Heavy Metal and Detergent Pollution in Giresun Coastal Zone, Turkey

Abstract

In this study heavy metal and anionic detergent, LAS concentrations were surveyed in the coastal surface water of Giresun, Turkey. A comprehensive study in this area was made in first time the present study. The seawater samples were collected monthly from a depth of 1 m at 8 stations (representing 24 substations) between June 2012 and May 2013. Concentrations of Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb were determined by using ICP-MS. Descriptive statistical analysis including One-way ANOVA, significance (0.05) was done. Important differences in the mean values were tested with Tukey's multiple range test. In surface water samples, according to analysis results, the following findings were obtained for the concentration ranges of the metals (ppm); Al: 0.072-3.303, Cr: 0.057-0.360, Mn: 0.015-0.272, Fe: 8.889-18.782, Co: 0.020-0.080, Ni: 7.075-8.666, Cu: 0.043-0.230, Zn: 0.41-0.759, Cd: 0.033-0.047, Pb: 0.024-0.149 and LAS value varied between 0.887-1.987 ppm. Seasonal mean levels at each of the stations were not significantly different (p>0.05), but between the metals, there were significant differences (p<0.05). Many towns along the coastline suffer from water pollution problems. In this area waters are mainly affected by freshwater runoff, domestic and agricultural discharges. Consequently, regular monitoring and evaluation of the coastline are recommended. Otherwise, this situation carries a potential risk for public health.