In modern sediment research on contaminants five aspects are discussed which, in an overlapping succession, also reflect develop­ ment of knowledge on particle-associated pollutants during the past twenty-five years: (1) identification of sources and their distribution; (2) evaluation of solid/solution relations; (3) study of transfer mecha­ nisms to biological systems; (4) assessment of environment impact; and (5) selection and further development of remedial measures, in par­ ticular, of dredged materials. Scientific research and practical develop­ ment are still expanding in all these individual aspects. Similar to other waste materials, management of contaminated sed­ iments requires a holistic approach.