Geochemical baseline data for the urban area of Sheffield

This report describes and interprets the results of a systematic urban geochemical baseline survey carried out in the Sheffield area. The concentrations of trace elements vary widely over different rock types. Baseline geochemical data enables natural concentrations to be determined and these provide a benchmark with which to compare the levels of contaminants in industrialised and urban areas. Soil samples were taken at a density of four per square kilometre. Sampling was carried out on the least disturbed area of unbuilt ground, such as domestic gardens, allotments, parks or (in the worst instance) road verges or made ground. Preliminary interpretation of the data can then be carried out and related back to the past and present industrial history of Sheffield.