From an environmental point of view, mountains are particularly sensitive and important for monitoring the state of health of our planet. Only through distribution of meteoclimatic and atmospheric composition monitoring points in mountain regions, coupled with modelling simulations, will we be able to thoroughly analyze complex pollutant transport mechanisms and better understand imminent global changes. The Himalayan-Karakoram range. For its elevation and geographic location, represents one of the ideal places for studying long-range pollutant transport systems on a regional scale and for monitoring changes index by mechanisms that act on global scale through monsoon circulation.
The Ev-K2-CNR committee with this book reached its objective of creating a unique opportunity for dialogue between major environmental scientists and experts, highlighting the close relationship between diverse themes with a common underlying thread: in-depth comprehension of the environmental phenomena which are determining the health of our planet.

This important volume-the product of a meeting of a select group of scientists-provides the most recent research results from the world's leaders in the study of toxic pollutants in sediments. It gives practical information on measuring and mapping distributions of concentrations of pollutants and their toxic effects in sediments. Also covered are the use and relative advantages and disadvantages of benthic chambers, sedimentation traps, box corers, "peepers" and other sampling techniques in sediment research and assessment. Important topics covered include: bioassay, elemental speciation, diffuse source problems, nutrient flux, biomethylation, bioavailability, and toxicity assessment. Will help in assessment and monitoring of chemistry, dynamics, bioavailability, and toxicity of pollutants, as well helping to chart courses for remedial action. This book will be of interest to anyone interested in the processes controlling the chemistry and movement of pollutants in sediments, especially: limnologists aquatic toxicologists engineers lake managers ecologists biologists environmental chemists