Review of the interactions between vehicular emitted potentially toxic elements, roadside soils, and associated biota. (January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: De Silva, Shamali; Ball, Andrew S.; Indrapala, Demidu V.; Reichman, Suzie M.
• Is Part Of: Chemosphere. Volume 263(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-01
• Subjects: Animals -- Metals -- Plants -- Microbes -- Soil -- Vehicular emissions; Pollution -- Periodicals; Pollution -- Physiological effect -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Periodicals; Atmospheric chemistry -- Periodicals; 551.511
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128135
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0045-6535

Abstract

Abstract: Given the large size of the world road network, the land area affected by vehicular emissions is extensive. This review provides the first global picture of the relationships between vehicular emitted potentially toxic elements, roadside soils, and risks to associated biota. The following potentially toxic elements that accumulate in roadside soils have been examined in this review: As, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Pd, Pt, Rh, Se, Sb, Sn, Sr, Ti and Zn. The meta-analysis undertaken demonstrated an increase in concentrations of Cd, Pb, Zn, Pt, Pd and Rh in roadside soils compared to the mean global crustal concentrations. Positive correlations between potentially toxic element concentrations in roadside soil, plants, microbes, and animals were observed. Roadside studies have found increased potentially toxic element concentrations in plants and animals with increasing proximity to roads. The mean concentrations of Pb in roadside plants and vertebrates were at values above the World Health Organisation guidelines. Research has shown a range of impacts of potentially toxic elements in roadside soils on microbial activity including decreased litter decomposition, nitrogen fixation, nutrient cycling and enzyme synthesis. However, aside from the impact on microbial communities, there has been little research investigating the impacts of roadside soil elements on the associated biota. Thus, there is a need for research that investigates the toxicity of elements in roadside soils to plants and animals and to investigate the transfer of roadside elements through the food chain, and thus, risks posed to human health and the environment. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: First comprehensive review of vehicle emitted elements in roadside soil and biota. Emerging risks from Cd, Cu, Ni and Zn on roadside soil systems identified. Transfer of potentially toxic elements from soil to the food chain is documented. Lead concentrations in roadside plants and animals higher than WHO guidelines.