Author/Authors :
Klavins, Maris University of Latvia - Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, LATVIA , Pujate, Agnese University of Latvia - Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, LATVIA , Kokorite, Ilga University of Latvia - Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, LATVIA , Kalnina, Laimdota University of Latvia - Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, LATVIA , Rodinovs, Valerijs University of Latvia - Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, LATVIA , Ansone, Linda University of Latvia - Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, LATVIA , Mazeika, Jonas Nature Research Centre - Radioisotope Research Laboratory, LITHUANIA , Jankevica, Maruta University of Latvia - Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, LATVIA , Bogans, Egils University of Latvia - Institute of Atomic Physics and Spectroscopy, LATVIA , Svagere, Anda University of Latvia - Institute of Atomic Physics and Spectroscopy, LATVIA
Abstract :
Environmental pollution with trace elements is considered as one of the most important environmental problems. Analysis of trace element accumulation in sedimentary phases of lakes may reflect the overall regional pollution level, and analysis of trace element accumulation patterns in sediment profiles can help to reconstruct the history of anthropogenic impact. The aim of this study was to analyse trace element concentrations in sediments of Lake Engure in Latvia and to determine factors influencing their availability. The metal concentrations in sediments of Lake Engure are at background levels, especially compared with metal concentrations in West European countries. However, the change in element concentration in sedimentary profiles provides information about trends of recent accumulation (within the last 100 years) and on the balance between natural and human-induced accumulation processes.
Keywords :
lake sediments , paleolimnology , trace and major elements , organic matter , pollen , spectrophotometry
