IndexGeneral Introduction…………………………………………………………………………….p. 4 1. The coast: a delicate environment 2. The specific problems of the coastal environment: between society and environment 3. Characteristics of marine sediment 4. Source of pollution of marine sediment 5. Dredging activity 6. Chemistry versus Ecotoxicology 7. The regulatory framework (laws) 8. Molecular investigation Aims and organization of the thesis……………………………………………………………p. 21 Chapter 1. Chemical and ecotoxicological analysis of 21 sediments from harbour dredging activity…………………………………………………………………………………………...p. 23 Inorganic fractionCharacterized by clay and non-silicates, carbonates, iron and manganese oxides, phosphates and sulphides. Organic fractionConsisting of living organisms, xenobiotic compounds and natural organic substance, which is very variable and can consist of proteins, peptides, humic and fulvic material. Interstitial WaterWhich can be up to about 50% by volume. PollutantInorganic or organic. 23Chapter 1 Chemical and ecotoxicological analysis of 21 sediments from harbour dredging activity