Technogenic Layers in Organic Soils as a Result of the Impact of the Soda Industry

Abstract

This study focused on characterization of salt-affected organic soils with thin surface mineral layers affected by waste of soda industry in the Inowrocław city area, Poland. The obtained results pointed out that the eolian supply of mineral material from waste ponds and locally, its transport by surface runoff can effect formation of layers contained up to 43% of carbonates. In addition, it was shown that these seemingly small transformations in the soil morphology can have a significant impact on functioning of the studied soils in the landscape. In this regard, the most important were deterioration of water properties and reduction of plant growth due to the salinization and sodification. Specific features of the studied soils could be well reflected in the WRB soil name as Eutric Murshic Histosols (Akromineralic, Salic, Sodic, Prototechnic). However, in the Author’s opinion, the introduction of the new qualifier defining the artifact type in the name (i.e. Calcitechnic) would be advisable.