Spatial distribution of heavy metal assessment in beach sediment due to bauxite mining in Kuantan, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract The effect of open-pit bauxite mining on beach sediment contamination in the urban coastal environment of Kuantan City, Malaysia, was investigated. The contents of 11 heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Al, Mn, Cu, Zn, Fe, As, Ni, Cr, and Ag) in 30 samples from Kuantan beach sediment zones (supratidal, intertidal, and subtidal) were determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) followed by contamination indexes, Pearson’s correlation analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA). The results indicated that Cd, As, Ni, and Ag values in beach sediment zones were significantly higher compared to background values. Contamination indexes suggest that Cd, As, Ni, and Ag were highly contaminated, and moderate to extremely enriched near the Kuantan Port. However, these heavy metal concentrations are lower compared to previous studies in the region. Sediment quality guidelines highlighted the occasional presence of Cd and Ag. Based on Pearson’s correlation analysis and PCA, sources of these heavy metals in beach sediments were likely from agricultural runoff, uncontrolled industrial and residential discharge, and unprotected mine waste near the Kuantan Port. Furthermore, effective management of mining practices and ongoing monitoring are essential to reduce contamination risks.