ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH UTILIZATION OF MINERAL WATERS IN URBANIZED AREAS OF AZERBAIJAN

摘要

Azerbaijan is rich in oil and gas, deposits of various minerals, and mineral waters. Thermomineral waters, present in 5 regions, are very important economically: their occurrence, properties, and environmental impacts are reviewed. Overall, it is concluded that Azerbaijan has a very considerable potential for further development of its thermal waters; although this development will necessitate care if environmental problems are to be avoided, its use could save about 1.5 million tonnes of conventional fuel every year.