Heavy metals in soils of Srem (Vojvodina)

Abstract

Potentially harmful trace elements pollution in soils is a worldwide environmental problem that has received increasing attention over the last few decades because of its adverse effects. Metals in soils are present in different chemical forms which affect their ability to transfer. The objective of this body of work was to assessment of contamination degree of elements Cu, Hg, Ni, Cr, Co, Zn, Pb, Cd, As and B in agricultural and grazing soils surrounding the industrial objects, in order to quantify their real influence and real health risk by using investigated soils as croplands. Combination of different methods was applied for estimation of the environmental status of soils and to determine the potential risk of ecological damage. Obtained results indicate that heavy metal contamination should be taken into account during development of management strategies to protect the soil in the Serbia.