Abstract

Organic and inorganic soil pollutants are reviewed. Classes of contaminants are presented along with discussions of chemical properties and typical concentrations found in soils. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act priority rankings are given along with the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s soil screening levels. Relative toxicities of important pollutants are discussed, and pathways of exposure are detailed for five of the most important metals. Remediation measures are examined including bioremediation, phytoremediation, and engineering alternatives.