In modern sediment research on contaminants five aspects are discussed
which, in an overlapping succession, also reflect develop- ment of
knowledge on particle-associated pollutants during the past twenty-five
years: (1) identification of sources and their distribution; (2)
evaluation of solid/solution relations; (3) study of transfer mecha-
nisms to biological systems; (4) assessment of environment impact; and
(5) selection and further development of remedial measures, in par-
ticular, of dredged materials. Scientific research and practical
develop- ment are still expanding in all these individual aspects.
Similar to other waste materials, management of contaminated sed- iments
requires a holistic approach. This means that assessment of
biogeochemical reactions, interfacial processes and transfer mecha-
nisms as well as the prognosis of long-term borderline conditions, in
particular of capacity-controlling properties, should be an integrated
part of the wider management scheme, i.e., the analytical and experi-
mental parameters should always be related to potential remediation
options for a specific sediment problem. The underlying coordinated
project, which was funded by the German Federal Ministry for Science and
Technology (now the Federal Ministry for Education, Science, Research
and Technology) provided excellent opportunities for multidisciplinary
effort, bringing together biologists, chemists, engineers, geologists
and other researchers. During its active phase, the group attracted much
interest nationally and internationally. The group members highly
appreciate the manifold contacts and invitations during the past five
years.