Traffic Impact on the Physical and Biological Parameters of Soil

Abstract

This thesis explores how the road traffic affects the physical and biological qualities of soil in and around Debrecen, Hungary. High-traffic roadside locations were chosen and compared with control sites with low traffic to collect soil samples. The moisture content, pH, electrical conductivity, soil organic matter, calcium carbonate and plasticity index of the soil were studied as key parameters. Sinapis alba seed was used to conduct a biological toxicity test to determine germination of seeds and root growth. The findings showed that traffic had a considerable impact on soil properties, contamination, and biological activity. The paper underlines the relevance of sustainable urban soil management and traffic control towards environmental protection.