Geochemical atlas of Maribor

Abstract

Understanding the spatial distribution of levels of chemical elements in soil is crucial for ensuring a safe and healthy living environment. It also plays an important role in spatial planning, land use management, and monitoring long-term anthropogenic impacts on the environment. This is particularly relevant in urban areas due to their high population density. This study presents the results of research on the levels of chemical elements, pH values, and total and organic carbon contents in the soil of Maribor, along with spatial distribution maps. Soil samples were collected from the upper 10 cm across the entire city using a 500 × 500 m grid. After digestion with aqua regia, the levels of 65 elements were determined using ICP-MS. The results indicate that the topsoil in Maribor is not heavily contaminated with potentially toxic elements. However, we identified several smaller areas and a few localized sites with elevated levels of copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn), primarily within industrial zones and the historic city centre. Their slightly elevated medians compared to Slovenian medians, along with high variability of levels and spatial distribution, suggest at least a partially anthropogenic origin. A partially anthropogenic origin can also be attributed to cadmium (Cd), antimony (Sb), tin (Sn), mercury (Hg), and silver (Ag). In contrast, some elements, for example aluminium (Al), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), and vanadium (V) clearly ref lect the predominant inf luence of the geological setting. With this study, we aimed to define the current geochemical state of the soil in Maribor, make the findings more accessible to the general public, and enable long-term monitoring of soil and environmental conditions.