Canal estate development in an acid sulfate soil—Implications for human metal exposure

摘要: The adverse environmental outcomes of disturbing acid sulfate soils have long been known, and there is a general consensus that avoiding disturbance the most cost-efficient solution. However, canal estates are increasing in popularity on west coast Australia, spite large proportion country's being located along its coast. This study examined mobility concentration metals surface soil, dust water sampled from one earliest developments Western Australia. Soil metal concentrations were significantly elevated compared to an undisturbed reference site. While fraction generally held higher original soil area, total load was dredged deposited material. None samples above guideline values. canals had iron arsenic Australian drinking value while nickel ecological value. pH not affected. human health consequences these findings may be severe as used for drinking. results highlight need transparency land development process, where developers responsible informing home buyers related developing areas steps taken towards remediation or avoidance. Moreover, show importance monitoring addition waters potentially affected by soils.