Understanding the impacts of land use on the pollution of urban waterways

Abstract

Urban waterways are vital for enhancing the well-being of an ever increasing population. Hence, effective solutions are necessary to mitigate pollution of these waterways. This research study investigated the influence of land use on metal and nutrient pollution of sediments in urban rivers located in two highly urbanised cities in Australia and China. The study outcomes found that land use positively influences the nitrogen pollution of river sediments, and negatively influences the metals and phosphorous. Further, agricultural activities were found to exert greater influence on river sediment pollution compared to anthropogenic activities specific to intensively developed urban areas (industrial, commercial and residential). The research outcomes have implications on better management of land uses to protect urban water resources.