Assessment of atmospheric elemental depositions in the Saguenay Fjord, Quebec, Canada

The Saguenay fjord in Quebec, Canada, is an ecologically sensitive area
that encompasses two protected zones. While mitigation efforts are in
place to limit anthropogenic pollution, recent investments in the region
may increase human activities, such as river traffic and metallurgical
industry operations, which could exert additional pressure on the
environment and contribute to atmospheric deposition of trace elements.
This study aims to assess the levels and potential sources of these
elements through biomonitoring using the moss species Pleurozium
schreberi. A total of 30 samples were collected, and 38 elements were
analyzed using ICP-MS and ICP-AES techniques. The moss elemental ratios
(La/Ce, La/Sm, La/V, V/Ni) indicated a predominance of crustal sources,
except for samples affected by aluminum smelters located to the west of
the fjord. Additionally, a few correlations suggested a moderate impact
from road traffic. Overall, the concentrations measured were low,
indicating a currently weak anthropogenic pressure on the region.