Trace Element Distribution in the Snow Cover of Different Functional Zones in Berezniki-Solikamsk Industrial Hub, Russia

• Main Authors: Evgeniya Ushakova, Elena Menshikova, Tatiana Karavaeva, Alexey Puzik
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Polish Society of Ecological Engineering (PTIE) 2021-11-01
• Series: Journal of Ecological Engineering
• Subjects: contamination; trace elements; ecological risk assessment; snowmelt; source identification
• Online Access: http://www.jeeng.net/Trace-Element-Distribution-in-the-Snow-Cover-of-Different-Functional-Zones-in-Berezniki,142233,0,2.html

The current study considered the distribution of trace elements in snow cover taking into account the functional zoning of the territory of Berezniki-Solikamsk industrial hub, Perm Region, Russia. The concentrations of 22 trace elements were determined in the dissolved phase of snowmelt using ICP-MS method. On the basis of on the background approach, it was found that Ni, Se, Cu, and Sn are actively accumulated in the snow cover. Snowmelt surface runoff during snow melting period significantly contributes to the total watershed discharge of rivers; therefore, the compliance with the Russian fishery quality standards was assessed. It was found that meltwater is the source of Cu, Mn, Se, Zn, V in surface waters. Significant concentrations of Pb, Cd, W, As, Se in snow are characteristic of conditionally background sites in comparison with average values of global concentrations of dissolved trace elements in river waters, and Se, W, Pb, Ni, As, Cd are characteristic of all functional zones. This study presented the possible sources of priority pollutants. The greatest technogenic impact was observed in the area of transport infrastructure development. Upon that, recreational and residential functional zones also experience significant anthropogenic impact. In order to create a comfortable and healthy urban environment it is necessary to implement the measures to restore these areas.