TACOMA, Wash. (AP) — A study of sediments taken from Tacoma’s Commencement Bay shows improvements in environmental quality.
The state Department of Ecology collected samples in 2008 and compared them to ones taken in the same locations in 1999.
Researchers found lower levels of toxic metals such as arsenic and mercury, and lower levels of chemicals linked to cancer. It also found healthier populations of tiny bottom-dwelling animals.
But the findings released Friday show higher levels of plasticizers, or a group of chemicals found in everyday items such as toys and personal care products.
Ecology is also studying sediment in Bellingham Bay, Budd Inlet and Everett Harbor.