Lead-210 (Pb-210) dating can be used to understand depositional trends of contaminants in the coastal marine environment. Decades of research have been committed to optimizing the use of Pb-210 as an isotopic tool to date sediment layers, yet challenges in its application limit its full potential. This TECDOC uses real case studies from around the world to examine the challenges and assumptions in using the method, the scope of its use, discussion on model usage, and validation. The geographic diversity of the presented studies provides a snapshot of the effect of anthropogenic activities and the resulting organic, inorganic, and radioactive contaminants on our coastal oceans. This publication is intended for environmental scientists and marine managers.
