Biogeochemical cycle of heavy metals in natutal freshwater tidal marshes and in flood control areas.

As a transition zone between land and sea, estuaries accommodate specific and valuable ecosystems and often act as a filter for the load of nutrients and pollutants increased by human activities. Intertidal areas play a key role in these functions. The area of natural tidal wetlands can be extended by bringing the planned controlled flooding areas under influence of the tide. Within the pilot project of the controlled inundation area with controlled reduced tide (CRT) Lippenbroek and mesocosm experiment in Kruibeke it is the aim to have a clear view on the effect of the present metal contamination of the areas fringing the river Scheldt. The main interest will be metal bioavailability and the interaction with biota. We will investigate the total metal cycle in plants from uptake to decomposition. The biogeochemical cycle of metals will be compared between the CRT, embarked areas and natural tidal marshes.

Keywords:ENVIRONMENTAL RISK FACTORS, FLOOD AREAS, WATER POLLUTION, HEAVY METALS

Disciplines:Sustainable chemistry, Geology, Plant biology, Aquatic sciences, challenges and pollution, Environmental science and management