Management implications of metal transfer pathways from a refuse tip to mangrove sediments

Abstract

Mangroves have often been thought of as wasteland, and because of this attitude, many mangrove forests have been used as sites for refuse tips, sewage outfalls and as illegal dumping grounds. The transfer of metals from a refuse tip to mangrove sediments is investigated and four pathways of heavy metal migration are identified. These are direct seepage across the tip-cell floor to groundwater, tidal over-topping of the bund wall and capillary suction of leachates to groundwaters, direct seepage through the cell wall of leachates to surficial sediments, and surface runoff during rainfall events. Metal input by surficial runoff indicates that significant quantities of metals have been transferred to the mangroves via this mechanism. However, metal transfer via surface runoff is probably small in comparison to the other three mechanisms discussed. The variable nature of the transfer mechanisms operating, the variability in sediment texture both vertically and laterally, and the number of transfer pathways makes potential management of the site difficult. Any management plan for this site must consider both the feedback mechanisms that operate, and that the whole sediment column is involved in metal transfer.