Regional geochemical mapping in developing countries and its application to environmental studies

Abstract The application of regional geochemical data for baseline, environmental impact, animal health and land use planning studies is illustrated using examples from Bolivia, Kenya, Sumatra and Swaziland. Pre-mining baseline and post-mining environmental impact assessements outline potential As hazards associated with Au mineralization. The relevance of regional drainage geochemistry maps to animal mineral deficiency studies is demonstrated by comparing the results of local soil-plant-animal studies with regional and national drainage geochemical maps. The identification of broad areas with adequate or deficient nutrient levels (including Cu, Zn, Co and K) on regional geochemical maps of northern Sumatra has land use planning applications. Regional geochemical mapping is a relatively rapid, cost-effective and reliable method of providing a data base on the background levels of metals in the environment that would permit governments to monitor environmental degradation and pollution and to investigate trace element linked degenerative diseases in crops, animals and humans.