An initial assessment of sediment and water quality in the post-industrial Clyde catchment, Glasgow, UK

Contamination of river sediments and waters from urban and industrial processes is of concern as many substances, including heavy metals, are toxic to aquatic life in high concentration and can have a detrimental effect on biodiversity. In order to assess the sediment/water quality of the post-industrial Clyde catchment, the British Geological Survey has surveyed 118 urban stream sediment and 122 water samples from all tributaries draining into the River Clyde within the Glasgow City Council administrative area. Similarly, 71 sediment and eight water samples were collected from the Inner Clyde Estuary, extending to Greenock/Helensburgh. Samples were analysed for approximately 60 inorganic and organic substances.