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The paper presents the results of a comprehensive analysis of bottom sediment samples taken in 2020 during the Roshydromet marine scientific research in Stepovoi and Litke bays of the Novaya Zemlya archipelago and in the coastal zone of the Kara Sea near Amderma village. All sediment samples were analyzed for the concentration of radionuclides 137Cs, 90Sr, 238Pu, 239 + 240Pu, and some samples were analyzed for the content of toxic chemicals: heavy metals, persistent organochlorine compounds, and aliphatic hydrocarbons. The analysis of the results showed that the levels of radionuclides and toxic chemicals in bottom sediments of Stepovoi Bay are generally consistent with the data of similar surveys in previous years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of long-term monitoring the total mercury and methylmercury levels in the bottom sediments of Lake Baikal are reported for the first time. It was shown that the levels of mercury and methylmercury in the lake sediments are within the range of the levels characteristic of unpolluted freshwater bodies. The factors affecting the accumulation of mercury and methylmercury in the upper layer of bottom sediments are revealed. A correlation between the organic carbon and particle size fractions is noted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]