Regional Differences in Potentials for Delayed Mobilization of Chemicals in Europe

When comparing examples of non-linear releases of chemicals in different regions in Europe, it appears that these may vary considerably, both with respect to major chemicals concerned, soil storage capacities, and processes changing the storage capacities. Although mechanisms follow basic physical, chemical and biochemical laws, values and rates may vary with conditions (Ter Meulen et al. 1993). As major processes and conditions may differ on regional scales, a regional approach of the subject seems warranted for, in spite of the fact that even on a field scale, heterogeneities in soils provide different storage capacities for contaminants.