Basic and introductory concepts in Environmental Geochemistry including the behavior of major and trace elements in the near-surface environment, focused on the interaction between rock, soil, water, and atmosphere. Environmental degradation and pollution related to anthropogenic and geogenic processes, and the way these processes affect the biosphere. Products of chemical decomposition, bioavailability, and solubility of potentially hazardous and toxic elements. Basic concepts on environmental pollution, focused on pollution sources related to human activities (e.g. mining). Environmental degradation approach based on state-of-the-art technologies (e.g. high resolution analytical techniques, use of stable and radiogenic isotopes in environmental geochemistry, specialized software for assessment and evolution – modeling of potential hazards). Geochemical mapping, nuclear radiation in the environment, geochemical cycle of elements.
