Sr and Pb isotopes as environmental indicators in environmental studies

Abstract

An environmental indicator is a numerical or a descriptive categorization of environmental data with the primary purpose of assessing the affected environment. In these studies, two characteristic isotopes, namely Sr and Pb, were assessed of their ability to describe the affected environment in environmental studies by detecting trends of pollution over short as well as long time periods and by identifying sources of contamination. The ability of environmental indicators to serve as elements in summarizing the situation of the affected environment is discussed. An illustrative example is presented where lead isotopes are used to understand the source of pollution in Kozani, a small rural area in Greece. Conclusions are derived in terms of the source of the pollution in the specific area.