Biomonitoring Air Pollution Using Moss in Georgia

Abstract

The results of atmospheric deposition of trace elements in a 2015 moss survey in Georgia are reported. The 36 moss samples were collected in different regions of the Caucasus in compliance with the UNECE ICP Vegetation guidelines. Elemental determination was carried out by epithermal neutron activation analysis (ENAA). For the first time, 47 elements were determined for the sampled areas. The scanning electron microscopy with x-ray energy-dispersive analysis was applied to examine the origin of atmospheric particles accumulated by mosses. Microanalysis of moss samples collected in the highlands of Georgia showed the presence of clastic, anthropogenic, and cosmic dust particles. Comparison of the determined values with corresponding data from a pristine area of Norway was carried out. Multivariate statistical analysis of the results obtained was used to identify and characterize pollution sources in the sampled areas of Georgia. Elevated levels of heavy metals were revealed in Western Georgia, where many industrial mining enterprises and high-traffic roads are located.