Geochemistry of landscapes of the historical area of Krister’s Hill (Kyiv)

Abstract

The study presents the results of ecological and geochemical research of landscapes of the historical area of Krister Hill in Podilsk district of Kyiv. The research aims to identify the current state of pollution of this territory by heavy metals - their content in the components of the landscapes (soils, plants, water environment). The paper characterizes the landscape structure and modern use of the territory. The degree of soil contamination in the sampling points located within the forest-steppe landscapes of the loess-like plain and mixed coniferous forest landscapes is characterized of the moraine-woodland plain was analyzed. For the analysis, the total pollution index (Zc) was used, according to which the study area as a whole has a moderately dangerous level of contamination of soils with heavy metals. The largest part belongs to lead and copper, the content of which in some samples is 2-4 times higher than the maximum allowable concentrations. The content of zinc and nickel is also significant. The total pollution of soils with heavy metals within the landscapes of forest plains is somewhat higher than in moraine-water-glacial landscapes. The results of a study of the microelement composition of the Krister hill vegetation indicate that the plants are characterized by an increased content of manganese, titanium, copper, and lead. Plants with a high ability to accumulate heavy metals include maple, common shingle, and lilac. To analyze the content of pollutants in surface and ground waters, water samples were taken from natural and artificial reservoirs, as well as from the bureaus. An excess of heavy metals content of tens and hundreds of times was detected in the Krister Hill water bodies. Hydrogeochemical peculiarities of drinking groundwater were established. The pump room water meets the requirements of DSTU. Excess of maximum permissible concentrations was detected for the total concentration of sodium and potassium ions and permanganate acidity. The obtained results are essential for substantiating the location of the network of complex environmental and geochemical monitoring and will contribute to the effectiveness of measures to improve the state of the natural environment and improve the living conditions of the population.