The Centro Ricerche Energia Ambiente (ENEA) examined the sediments of Pozzuoli Bay for contamination of metals, organic matter, PCBs, PAHs and DDT. The physical characteristics of surficial sediments reflected volcanic and industrial activity in the region. Elevated concentrations of Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Pb and Zn were present in the sediments of littoral areas near industrial centers. Carbon/nitrogen ratios (> 20) of sediments indicated that organic matter was of an allochthonous origin. Industrial and agricultural activity in the area was reflected through elevated concentrations of PCBs, PAHs and DDT. Although the region has maintained an important fishing industry, there was no evidence of change in the commercial fish catch at the Port of Pozzuoli from 1979 to 1983 which could be correlated with contaminated sediments. Future work will focus on the bioaccumulation of contaminants.