POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF GLOBAL WARMING ON ATMOSPHERIC LEAD CONTAMINATION IN THE MOUNTAINS

摘要

Atmospheric metal contamination, especially lead, responds to both the environmental factors and global warming parameters as a function of altitude. Seasonal fluctuations in the lead concentrations of foliar parts of alpine plants have been recorded with values higher in winter and early spring months than in summer months. The larger the snow-free catchment area and the warmer conditions will be in the mountains, the larger and earlier dispersal of lead to the surrounding sub-mountain regions may occur. Pb and Al concentrations in the alpine plants and vertebrates must be of concern in acidified habitats.