Sensitivity of forest ecosystems in Flanders for the effects of acidification and eutrophication
1998
Ranst, E. van | Craenen, H. (Universiteit Gent (Belgium). Lab. voor Bodemkunde)
In this study a first attempt was made to assess the sensitivity of forest ecosystems in Flanders for the effects of acidification and eutrophication, according to a proposed European protocol and using available information. The calculated critical loads for acidification and eutrophication (nutrient nitrogen), as well as their exceedances are presented in grid maps (5 km x 5 km). In 75/ of the receptor points considered an exceedance of the critical load for acidification is noted, primarily in areas with high SO2 and NHx depositions, which is the case in the north of the provinces East- and West-Flanders and Antwerp. The critical load for eutrophication is exceeded in all points considered. "Black points" are situated in coniferous forests in West-Flanders, North-Limburg and in the north of the province of Antwerp, where especially NHx depositions amount to high values. Evaluation of the calculations performed here indicates that uncertainties on the resulting critical loads arise from the accuracy and correctness of the data needed for computation. Until now the availability of the necessary data for the calculation of critical loads for Flanders is too limited, requiring further research about : (1) weathering rates of soil minerals ; (2) interception and evapotranspiration of forest ecosystems, and (3) uptake of N and basic cations by vegetation. This supplementary information wilt contribute to a better valorisation of the calculated critical loads as a valuable instrument in emission abatement policy.
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