Acid Sulfate Soils in Västra Götaland, Sweden

Abstract

Acid sulfate soils can cause significant economic, environmental, and health-related issues due to acidification and metal leaching. This thesis investigates the presence of acid sulfate soils in the county of Västra Götaland – a region in which the presence of acid sulfate soils has been unknown. A literature review was performed which indicated that acid sulfate soils should occur in organic-rich sediment near drained lakes. Soil sampling and pH measurements at 14 sites around western Västra Götaland revealed three potential acid sulfate soils and one active acid sulfate soil. The three potential acid sulfate soils occurred adjacent to drained lakes and the active acid sulfate soil occurred close to a drained wetland. All soils were hosted in, or below, organic-rich sediment. Isotope analysis by ICP-SFMS revealed increased amounts of sulfur in three of the acid sulfate soils. While the presence of acid sulfate soils in Västra Götaland is now confirmed, their extent remains unknown. Future studies are encouraged to delimitate the extent and impact of acid sulfate soils in Västra Götaland.