Reconstruction of past anthropogenic impact intensity in Lake Engure using sedimentary record analysis

Environmental pollution with trace elements is considered as one of the most important environmental problems. Analysis of trace element accumulation in sedimentary phases of lakes may reflect the overall regional pollution level, and analysis of trace element accumulation patterns in sediment profiles can help to reconstruct the history of anthropogenic impact. The aim of this study was to analyse trace element concentrations in sediments of Lake Engure in Latvia and to determine factors influencing their availability. The metal concentrations in sediments of Lake Engure are at background levels, especially compared with metal concentrations in West European countries. However, the change in element concentration in sedimentary profiles provides information about trends of recent accumulation (within the last 100 years) and on the balance between natural and human-induced accumulation processes.