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Groundwater contamination in Japan

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Environmental Geology and Water Sciences

Abstract

Problems on groundwater contamination in Japan are briefly summarized in this paper. Although normal physical conditions in Japan restrict the possibilities of groundwater contamination, human activities are threatening groundwater resources. A survey by the Environment Agency of Japan showed nationwide spreading of organic substances, such as trichloroethylene as well as nitrogen compounds. Synthetic detergents have also been detected even in rural areas and in deep confined aquifers, although their concentrations are not as high. Public awareness of agrichemical or pesticides abuse, especially from golf courses, is apparent. Other problems such as nitrate-nitrogen, leachate from landfills, and the leaking of underground storage tanks are also discussed.

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Tase, N. Groundwater contamination in Japan. Environ. Geol. Water Sci 20, 15–20 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01736106

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01736106

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