Assessing ecological and health risks of potentially toxic elements in marine and beach sediments of Tangier Bay, Southwestern Mediterranean sea

This study investigates the distribution, sources, and ecological risks of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in marine and beach sediments of Tangier Bay, Southwestern Mediterranean. Sediments from 22 locations were analyzed for physicochemical properties and concentrations of metals such as As, Cr, Zn, Cd, Pb, and Cu. Elevated levels of As (up to 40.28 mg/kg), Cr (40.60 mg/kg), and Zn (57.29 mg/kg) were found in marine sediments near industrial discharge areas, while beach sediments had higher Cd levels (up to 35.85 mg/kg), indicating urban runoff contamination. The spatial variation in metal levels is influenced by both natural and anthropogenic factors. Geological characteristics and river inputs establish baseline concentrations, but industrial activities, wastewater discharge, and maritime operations exacerbate pollution. Risk assessment using geo-accumulation, enrichment factor, and ecological risk indices revealed significant pollution, notably from Cd and As. These findings emphasize the need for focused remediation efforts to protect Tangier Bay’s environmental health. [Display omitted] •Cadmium and arsenic provide the largest ecological concerns in Tangier Bay sediments.•Anthropogenic activities are the primary source of pollution in Tangier Bay.•PTEs accumulation in sediments indicates long-term marine ecosystem impacts.•Risk indices show high contamination from cadmium and arsenic.•The study recommends targeted remediation to reduce ecological and health risks.