Emissions, air concentrations and atmospheric depositions of arsenic, cadmium, lead and nickel in Italy in the last two decades: A review of recent trends in relation to policy strategies adopted locally, regionally and globally

Abstract

Heavy metals can cause adverse effects to humans, animals and ecosystems due to their bioavailability and toxicity in various environmental compartments. In the last decades, many policy strategies and measures have been taken at global, regional and local level in relation to heavy metals, due to their adverse effects and ability to be transported over long distances. Several EU measures have been adopted in order to control the pollution from heavy metals in the main sectors. This paper will provide an overview of trends of emissions, air concentrations and atmospheric depositions of heavy metals in Italy and of the main relevant EU legislation and its goals (Directives on paints, batteries, industrial emissions, etc.) together with policies adopted at Italian level.