The main trends of heavy metals distribution in bottom sediments of the Neva Bay of the Gulf of Finland are considered. The studies are based on own field and laboratory observations. Average concentrations of elements in different areas of the Neva Bay have been estimated. Factor analysis has been performed. Elemental associations, their spatial distribution have been studied and the main regularities of bottom sediment chemistry have been characterized. The role of geo-ecological monitoring as a way of revealing, studying and forecasting the negative consequences of human economic activity is shown.
