The application of an integrated GIS procedure for characterising TSP industrial emissions impact: a test case in southern Italy

In this work we present an application of a monitoring and modelling integrated procedure in a GIS-environment, for describing the impact of TSP and heavy metal industrial emissions in an industrial area of Southern Italy. The monitoring method is based on the measurement of the bioavailable fraction of heavy metals in topsoil; the modelling procedure is based on the application of a simple transport model. Different tools are integrated in a GIS, which gives us the hardware-software environment for comparing databases, model outputs and measurements. The study involves the Melfi industrial area, where, in the last twenty years, many industrialisation processes have been taking place. This area is located in the Vulture basin, a zone characterised by naturalistic and agricultural resources, so it is an optimal site for developing and testing procedures aimed at evaluating the environmental impact of industrial activities....