Fluxes and retention of trace metals in the Humber Estuary

The Humber Estuary is a physically dynamic system into which industrial wastes contaminated with heavy metals have been discharged for many years. The total fluxes of Cd, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb and Zn from the Humber Estuary to the North Sea have been estimated for December 1988, May 1990 and August 1990. These fluxes have been compared to inputs into the estuary from rivers, sewage and industry as reported by the Paris Commission. A discrepancy exists between the estuarine inputs and the fluxes to the North Sea, which suggests that the estuary is acting as a trap for fine, metal-contaminated sediments. An alternative approach to flux assessment also indicates that metal retention by sediments is a major feature of the Humber Estuary. The results are discussed in the context of the recovery of the estuary from metal contamination and the consequences for the coastal zone. This critical review allows assessment of effectiveness of current management strategies and new directions for the future to be proposed.