Assessment of Quality of Dredged Material from Hai Phong Port’s Navigation Channels for Sea Dumping
摘要
This study evaluates the suitability of dredged material from Hai Phong Port navigation channels for ocean disposal, focusing on heavy metal contamination. Rigorous assessment is crucial for responsible sediment management and maintaining a balance between port functionality and environmental protection. Sediment samples were collected from the Cam River mouth, the Lach Tray estuary, and the Dinh Vu port area. Heavy metals in dredged material samples were used for assessment (As, Cd, Hg, Cr, Pb, and Zn). Analytical results showed that As, Cd, and Hg concentrations were all below the detection limit of 0.1 mg/kg at all sampling sites in 2021, indicating minimal anthropogenic influence. Chromium (Cr) concentrations ranged from less than 1 mg/kg to 72.5 mg/kg, while lead (Pb) ranged from 15 to 39 mg/kg, and zinc (Zn) ranged from 29.99 to 32.5 mg/kg. These values fall within generally accepted background levels for coastal sediments. These findings suggest minimal ecological risk associated with the proposed ocean disposal of the dredged material. From the results of heavy metal analysis in samples and established pollution assessment indicators, this study concluded that the dredged material from the shipping channel of Hai Phong Port has heavy metal content within the permissible limits according to current regulations. This finding provides additional information on dredged material for disposal into the sea in accordance with relevant Vietnamese regulations. This study contributes to environmentally responsible port management practices, allowing for necessary channel maintenance while minimizing environmental impacts.