This study assessed heavy metal distribution and ecological risks across 28 surface sediment sites (0–20 cm) in the Tianjin Binhai New Area. Average concentrations met Class I marine standards. Independent t-tests showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) between riverine and coastal wetlands . However, Cd, Hg, and Pb exhibited high variability, linked to intensive shipping and industrial runoff from the Port of Tianjin, Lingang, and Dagang zones . While integrated risk was low, Hg posed localized moderate risk. Seasonal discharge and redox variations may further influence metal dynamics . These findings provide a refined baseline for port-industrial bays.
Lu et al. (Mon,) studied this question.