Groundwater quality changes in peri-urban areas of the Walloon region of Belgium

An extensive survey of groundwater quality was performed at the regional scale in peri-urban and industrial contexts Walloon Region (Belgium). To this end, 243 sampling locations from 8 areas located different geological region were sampled outside pollution hotspots related to contaminated sites. Each sample analyzed for 19 inorganic trace elements, 59 organic micro-pollutants major minor elements. Five physico-chemical parameters measured field, time determine environmental conditions prevailing groundwater. Existing chemical data available such also compiled existing databases comparison. Most pollutants are detected their levels occurrence described statistically. Cumulative distribution function plots allow comparing distributions elements urbanized industrialized among contexts. Two indicators introduced, one quantifying impact on diffuse urban areas, other reflecting influence lithology concentrations Results show that composition is altered with increased several most However, results clearly indicate anthropogenic not limited discharge but significant changes conditions, more reducing acidic observed The marked set. From a pragmatic point view, set has been used derive upper limits pollutant background be decision-making management environments Region.