A source of reference unique in the sheer breadth of material covered, this handbook contains detailed information on the environmental metals which influence the health of plants, animals and humans. Particular attention is given to the environmental and analytical chemistry (sources, speciation, transports), bioavailability, metabolic pathways and biological effects. The handbook also delineates the problems related to waste, soils and wildlife as well as the risks caused by the increasing output of metals from industry and from households (e.g. incineration, dumping and legal limitations).

The first part comprises 36 general contributions on the role of metals and their compounds in the environment. In the second part, 37 metals are described systematically according to six major environmental criteria. An extensive bibliography of the most recent literature completes each chapter.

International experts from fifteen countries have pooled their knowledge and experience to create this unusually comprehensive handbook.