The soil contamination by heavy metals in playgrounds of kindergartens in Vilnius city is analysed in this article. The aim of this research is to investigate and evaluate soil contamination by heavy metals in playgrounds of kindergartens in different territories of Vilnius city. Concentrations of heavy metals were measured using Thermo Fisher Scientific Niton® XL2 X-ray fluorescence spectrometer. Maximum allowable and background concentrations that are given in Lithuanian hygiene standard and Lithuania geochemical atlas are used to compare and evaluate concentrations of heavy metals. Concentrations of heavy metals and their spatial distribution were analysed in order to exclude the most contaminated areas relating with different functional areas of the city. Geo-statistical analysis and maps of spatial distribution were developed using IDW interpolator in ArcMap software. Detail soil surveys helps to assess the extent of anthropogenic impact in different parts of the city which can be harmful to the soil ecosystem and human health. Such researches can help to change or select different function for city areas in territorial planning process.
Bottom sediment pollution with heavy metals of the Sventoji River in Ukmerge, Lithuania using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry is analyzed in this article. During the research, qualitative and quantitative parameters of heavy metal concentrations and their distribution were investigated. This article presents obtained results of study, where bottom sediment samples were examined from both shores of the river of Sventoji. During this research, received data was treated using GIS software, which helped to interpolate the data of concentrations into the research polygon of the river. GIS software also helped to evaluate the urban runoff influence to the bottom sediment quality and exclude sources of pollution. The runoff dischargers which transport surface wastewater to the river were registered before sampling. At the mouth of streams, flowing into the river of Sventoji, additional samples were taken. After comprehensive river bottom sediment research there is a possibility to assess the extent of anthropogenic activity and its impact on the river ecosystem and human health.