Assessment Of Air Quality In The Southwestern Part Of The Świętokrzyskie Mountains Based On Selected Indicators

Abstract

Background: This article presents the results of research on the air quality which has been under the anthropogenic impact of the cement and lime industry in the Świętokrzyskie Mountains for many years. Research using geo-and bio-indicators was carried out at fixed measuring points in the years 2016-2018. Results: Hypogymnia physodes (L.) Nyl. and two-year old Scots pine needles Pinus silvestris L. were used for bioindication research. Physico-chemical properties of precipitation were developed on the basis of research conducted at the Jan Kochanowski University's field research station located on the Malik. Increased pH and specific electrolytic conductivity (EC) of precipitation, as well as variable concentrations of heavy metals throughout a year were shown. Conslusions: Analysis of the chemical properties of transplanted lichens and pine needles confirmed the presence of elements from the cement and lime industry sector located in the Białe Zagłębie. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of the needles' surface revealed morphological changes resulting from pollution of stoma opening and closing by small solid particles of anthropogenic origins, disturbing a gas exchange.