- Email: [email protected]
Theoretical Methodological Basis of Creation of Ecological Geological Maps
EARTH SCIENCE FRONTIERS Volume 15, Issue 6, November. 2008 Online English edition of the Chinese language journal Cite this article as: Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207.
RESEARCH PAPER
Theoretical Methodological Basis of Creation of Ecological Geological Maps V. T. Trofimov Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 199899, Russia
Abstract: Ecological geological maps are considered as a novel type of geological maps. Classification of the ecological geological maps is presented in this study. The structure of the fundamentals and conceptual thesis (positions) of the compilation of the ecological geological maps and necessary informational basis and problematical questions regarding the creation of ecological geological maps are described. Key Words: ecological geological maps; the structure of theoretical basis of ecological geological mapping; conceptual thesis of ecological geological mapping; the classification of geological ecological maps
1 Ecological geological maps—the novel class of geological maps Ecological geology as a novel branch of geology, devoted to the exploration of the upper horizons of the lithosphere as one of the main abiotic components of ecosystems of a high level of organization, emerged at the end of the twentieth century>1,2@. During this period, the maps of new generatioQügeo-ecological and ecological geological maps appeared in the geological mapping system>3,4@. The different reflections according to contents and methods on the geological maps of the ecologically important geological information were their distinctive features. Ecological geological map is considered by the author as a novel type of geological map. It is a graphical mathematical model depicting ecological geological situation, which gives the generalized picture of the estimation of the state of lithosphere components on the basis of topography, which reflect its ecological functions and properties>1,5@. In fact, it means the spatial graphical reflection of the system “lithosphere (including technologic changes)–biota–man,” with emphasis on the properties of the lithosphere, determining the state of biota and living conditions of humans. The geological characters and reflection of their medical-biological consequences on the map allows to classify it as a novel type of geological map. The ecological geological map has two obligatory blocks (massifs) of information distinct from other geological maps: about the state of ecological geological conditions of lithosphere and its
components and influences on the ecosystems, comfort, and safety conditions for humans. It allows for the characterization of the state of ecological geological system on the map. The creation of such maps demands the clear definition of the main theoretical methodological positions of the compilation of the ecological geological maps. It includes the basis of conception of ecological geology, the basis of criteria of creation and classification of geological ecological maps, the ideas of informational security of their composition, etc. It is very clear that the contents of each type of geological map must be defined by the theoretical positions of the appropriate branch of science. So, the structural-stratigraphicallithological basis, taken from the appropriate branch of geology and providing uniformity in the information given in maps and their comparison underlies the basis of creation of traditional geological maps. The engineering geological maps involve the study about the engineering geological conditions, which allowed for unifying the list and sequence mapping indices. It provides ideas about the ecological functions and properties of the lithosphere, which form the theoretical basis of ecological geology, for the creation of ecological geological maps as a uniting and unified begin, and the graphical illustration is given in Fig. 1>1,2,5–7@.
2 Structure of theoretical basis of ecological geological map compilation Its first five blocks are composed of the important theoretical
Received date: 01-Dec-2007; Accepted date: 01-Apr-2008
Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected] Copyright © 2008, China University of Geosciences (Beijing) and Peking University, Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
Fig. 1
Structure of the theoretical basis of the ecological cartography[8]
thesis of ecological geology, which determines the aims and contents of the compilation of ecological geological maps, and is published in the papers>1,5,8@ with complete details. The last five blocks are directed toward proving the main theoretical and methodological positions of the direct contents of different components of the compilation of the ecological geological maps. These are poorly elucidated in Ref. >4,5,8,9@. The contents of each block of this structure are vast and cannot be fully characterized in this paper[10,11]. In connection with this, the characteristics of the most important, from our point of view, components of the compilation structure of ecological geological maps are proposed.
3 About the criterion base of estimation of ecological geological conditions Under the ecological geological situation (conditions), a combination of concrete ecological properties (functions) of the lithosphere, reflecting present or paleo-state of biota’s living conditions in certain lithosphere volume as their habitat, are considered. Conditions change or not from place to place and also in time in the limits of one massif, one region. In the last case, with time, the ecological geological situation transforms from one state to another. Proceeding from this, the state of ecological geological conditions is determined as a temporary state, evaluated through specificity of one, several, or a combination of the ecological properties (functions) of the lithosphere at the present moment. Ecological properties determine the degree
(level) of suitability and the possibility of the existence of organisms. It is the stage which depicts temporary peculiarities of ecological geological system. They characterize the level of influence of ecological properties and functions of the lithosphere on the organisms. During the estimation of ecological geological conditions, different types of indices are used. They may be thematic, spatial, or dynamic. The first thematic indicate the sapid indices, which characterize the state of ecological geological system, biota, or their individual components. Spatial criteria estimate the area or the volume of breaches according to thematic indices that were enumerated earlier. From the subject point of view, all these criteria are sufficiently variable: biotic, geological, medical-sanitary, and socio-economic, and each of them includes several indices. There are direct and indicated indices>2,7,12,13@. The geographical, geological, pedological, and medicalsanitary specialists proposed the principal four-level system of estimation of the biotic and abiotic components of ecosystem. This system is supported by the closer positions based on each level. The recorded circumstance allowed for providing the following classes of ecological geological conditions>7@: (1) Class of satisfactory (favourable) state, which is correlated with the zone of ecological norm of ecosystem, according to Vinogradov. The importance of direct criteria of estimation of ecological geological state of lithosphere is below the maximum permissible content or background (except natural anomalies). (2) Class of conditionally satisfactory (comparatively
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
unfavourable) state, that is correlated with the ecological risk zone. The territories need the reasonable economical using, planning and using of improvement measures. The value of direct criteria of ecological geological state of lithosphere estimation insignificantly (about 5 times) exceeds maximum permissible content or background (except natural anomalies). (3) Class of unsatisfactory (extremely unfavourable) state, which is correlated with the ecological risk zone. Designed economic usage of territories, planning and timely deep improvement are necessary. The value of direct criteria of ecological geological state of lithosphere estimation exceeds 5 –10 times the maximum permissible content with the ecological disaster zone. The values of direct criteria of ecological geological state of lithosphere estimation are tenfold than those of maximum permissible content or background. In conclusion one question to be discussed must be noted, which is about time and substance of “overgrowing” of traditional geological indices into ecological geological ones. The answer must be formulated in the same way: the overgrowth of geological information into ecological geological one is going on under its usage for the evaluation of biota existence and development. In other words, geological information acquires the ecological geological contents during the ecological geological functional analyses>1,2@ at new ecologically oriented approach.
4 Conceptual positions of ecological geological map compilation We include the following positions: (1) The range of the ecological geological state of lithosphere as a whole or its components on the maps must be produced according to the number of classes. (2) Criteria of class discharge of ecological geological conditions of lithosphere and the zones of ecological state of ecosystem associated with them on maps indicate the indexes, which are divided into the thematic, spatial, and dynamic types. (3) The class discharge of ecological geological conditions of lithosphere and zones of ecological state of ecosystem can be and must be realized on the base of several representative indices, but obligatorily with the consideration of the thematic, spatial and dynamic estimation criteria. (4) The reflection of the indexes on the geological base, using the time of ecological geological map creation, the spatial estimation of the ecological geological state of the mapping object of the lithosphere, and the treatment of prognosis rate may be possible on the basis of these indexes. (5) The classification according to contents and scale must take into account all their variety and secure the possibility of register of ecological geological situation in real project of ecologically oriented measures. (6) Characteristic of the ecological geological state of
lithosphere and their estimation in either category must be reflected on all types of ecological geological maps with the help of background color painting. (7) The choice of the methods of the reflection on the map of the integral estimation of the ecological geological state conditions of lithosphere can be lead to the total estimation of the different ecological properties of the separate components of the lithosphere by different methods, such as the points, the worst variant>1,14@.
5
Classification of ecological geological maps
The classification of ecological geological maps according to their contents, practice appointment, scale, and character of renovation of the transmitted material was suggested by Trofimov and Ziling>8,9@. 5.1 The ecological geological map classification according to content The ecological geological maps are referred to the category of thematic geological maps and are, as it was mentioned, their new type. According to contents, it is expediently divided into four types: (1) the ecological geological conditions (situations) maps; (2) ecological geological zoning maps; (3) ecological geological prognosis maps; and (4) ecological geological recommendation maps (Fig. 2). The first type must be theoretically referred to as the category of factological maps; however, in all cases, such maps are composed as factological-appraisable, when the data are reflected in comparative units. The second type of ecological geological maps is doubly appraisable, the third and the fourth types have the nature protection, exact litho-protection, recommendations, directed to the ecological geological conditions regulation, with a view on their preservation or improvement. Each of these four types of maps is divided according to the character of transmitted sapid information into two types: analytic (often named private) and synthetic (complex). The first characterized or estimated, prognosticated one or several indexes of geological ecological conditions. And on the synthetic maps, the whole complex is reflected, which defined the modern or prognosticable ecological geological situation. Let us explain the contents of the types and kinds of maps. 5.1.1 Ecological geological conditions (situations) maps The maps of ecological geological conditions reflects the complex of parameters or individual characteristics of lithosphere, which characterized the opportunity of the influence of lithosphere components on the biota (man, fauna, flora, and ecosystem as a whole). It may include, for example, the lithosphere pollution by the toxic materials, spatial distribution by the geological processes, inhomogeneity of geophysical fields, demerits of different types of resources for the living. Such direct or relative quantitative or qualitative
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
information is completed by the knowledge about the endemic sicknesses of population and the parameters of degradation of ecosystem and its biotic components. All necessary data are reflected by the method of separate map compilation on these maps; their summary estimation according to the degree of suitability, comfort, or safety of human living or ecological state of ecosystem is not given. Synthetic (complex) maps of ecological geological conditions reflect all combination of necessary parameters of contemporary ecological geological situation. Analytic maps of this type carry the spatial information only about one, as usual, particular and important feature of this situation for solving the question. On analytic maps, the peculiarities of ecological geological conditions may be reflected, which are stipulated by the show of only resource or only geochemical ecological function of lithosphere or even separate components. The functionally oriented analytic maps, reflecting these situations, expediently can be named as “ecological resource map”, “ecological geodynamical map”, “ecological geochemical map”, and “ecological geophysical map” (Fig. 2). 5.1.2 Ecological geological zoning maps Ecological geological zoning maps are the appraisable
Fig. 2
maps, and the estimation of contemporary state of ecological geological conditions, as well, is given by the method of their range on the classes of conditions. It is the most important type in composition of ecological geological maps, which is the basis for prognosis estimation and nature defenses measures. On the basis of the ecological geological information, the estimation from the position of comfort and safety of human life and function of ecosystem is given on these maps. In the legend of zoning maps, as in the condition map’s legend, there are certainly two blocks: the ecological geological information about the lithosphere and its components and the information about ecosystems and their biotic components. The principle difference of this information is that it is the factological characteristics on the maps of conditions, and on the maps of zoning of the ecological estimation of these characteristics with the definition of classes of state of ecological geological conditions of lithosphere and the zones of ecological state of ecosystems connected with them. The spatial territory insulation with the definite class of ecological state is the substance of such maps. Ecological geological maps may be synthetic and analytic
Classification of the ecological geological maps according to its content[2,10,12]
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
according to their content. It is expedient to distinguish “ecological resource zoning”, “ecological geodynamic zoning”, “ecological geochemical zoning” and “ecological geophysical zoning” among the analytic maps (Fig. 2). 5.1.3
Ecological geological prognosis maps
Ecological geological prognosis maps. They reflect the spatial-temporary prognoses of ecological geological conditions changing during the natural dynamic of natural surrounding and the main–during the economic mastering of territory and natural technical systems. The complex (according to all parameters, conditions and natural probabilities and technogenic influences) and private (the change caused by any factor under the influence of definite type) change ecological geological conditions prognoses may be reflected on this type of maps. The first case is synthetic type, the second is of analytic ecological geological prognosis map. 5.1.4
Ecological geological recommendation maps
Ecological geological recommendation maps are based on the ecological geological and social economical information. These maps are the basis for various recommendations, from the rational (from ecological and geological viewpoint) recommendations on territory using till regulation of the economic activities and defense of bio-and socio-sphere objects. Their list is demonstrated in Fig. 2. Such types of maps are generally similar to synthetic maps. It is the discussion question to refer this type of maps to the ecological geological category. In the strict sense, the nature defense maps (the considered type of maps is referred to them) compose the special category, the independent class of thematic maps, which help and promote to accept the controlling decisions. However, the information characteristic, and exactly the ecological geological basis of the composition of such maps allows for considering them as a “final” ecological geological maps block. 5.2 Ecological geological map division according to their appointment According to this sign, ecological geological maps can be divided like engineering geological ones into common (general) and special types. First of them characterize the parameters of ecological geological conditions without the accounting of definite type of biota influence on what is estimated, and without the accounting of concrete, narrowly aimed map using. On the basis of this, the common ecological geological maps are the maps that have many objectives. Second in special maps, only the ecological geological information, necessary for the given problem solving, is reflected. The information on the ecological geological zoning and prognosis maps is reflected analogously. It distinguishes the regional or more often typological taxonomic units, comparatively homogeneous according to the combination of ecological geological conditions on the common appointment
maps. On the special maps, the homogeneity of conditions of distinguished tax on is defined according to the classification mostly responds for the proposed problem and, as a rule, set in the technical assignment. Prognosis data about the changes of ecological geological conditions under the effect of the most typical natural and technological influence are reflected on the common maps (according to their appointment). They probably change under the same conditions with the influence of the definite type and intensiveness to show subject on the special ecological geological prognosis maps. 5.3 Subdivision of ecological geological maps according to the scale According to this sign, the ecological geological maps by analogy with engineering geological maps are divided into the review (scale smaller 1:1000,000), small scale (scale 1:000,000–1:500,000), medium scale (1:200,000–1:50,000), and large scale (1:25,000 and large). 5.4 Subdivision of ecological geological maps according to the character of renovation of referred material According to this sign, two types of ecological geological are distinguished: maps with fixated contents of information and maps with permanent addition information. The large part of ecological geological maps is referred to as the first type. The main deficiency is static, even ecological geological situation is the dynamic system. This deficiency may be conquered by the composition of maps with permanent complemented information. Such maps are commonly named duty and their contents are supplemented by the new data of changes of ecological geological conditions. How the duty ecological geological maps of different types and different contents may be composed of ? At first it is the analytical maps of ecological geological conditions, on which all the data about the determined changes of separate components of geological environment are reflected. On this basis the synthetic map of engineering geological conditions may be constantly renewed. Presence and analysis of duty ecological geological maps permit to get the operative and authentically data about the dynamic of changes and already formed changes of ecological geological situation. On this basis the measures of rational, ecologically oriented using of territory may be ground realized its management with the help of restricting or protective measures.
6 Necessary informational base of composition of ecological geological maps The substance and structure of informational base of ecological geological maps is defined with not only the necessity of accumulation and systematization of ecological geological information, but also by the creation of its
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
necessary thematical destination taking into account the specification (type) of composed maps. It is essential that the investigator can provide set content and quality of cartographical production only through informational provision. Proceeding from these, the ideas of the following scheme of informational provision of different types of maps may be offered (Fig. 3). The first block of information must provide the possibility of ecological geological conditions (furniture) map composition and include wide range of indexes and characteristics, which permit to estimate the contemporary ecological state of lithosphere (its ecological properties) and the state of ecosystem as a whole or its separate biotic components. This information may carry both point and square character and reflect the results of field investigations and literature and fund materials. The geologists collect it for abiotic components of ecosystem, and for biotic components this information is gathered in special organizations or ordered to professional specialists. It must be emphasized that the main destination of the first information block is the systematization of all factological data according to observed problem and minimum limited list of common geological information. The second block of information is called to provide two positions, which are the zoning and range of getting information into four classes of ecological geological conditions of lithosphere state and setting the connection with
Fig. 3
zones of ecological territory breaking. The first position is connected with complementary material gathering the factors, to provide the carrying of aimed ecological geological territory zoning taking into account its functional organization. The second position is based on the idea of close correlation between the ecosystems and realized on the basis of being in first block information with the attraction of normative methodical documents. The third block is intended for prognosis of ecological geological maps composition and includes: the receipt of data about the in situ observations results, necessity for ascertaining of tendency of evolution of lithosphere components at the setting level of technical lading, receipt of data of economical territory development, and the awaiting of technical lading level. The information receipt of regime observations of all nature and ecosystem components, which are reflected at the ecological geological maps and real plan of using economic mastering or territory is the essential part. It’s important that map treatment requires data search and accounting, which pass the limits of professional interests of geologist. Just it demands the attraction of specialists of appropriate profile for maps composition during the recommendation treatment for the nature defense and management solutions acceptance. And the last thing in this question. Let’s specially stop at the “Map of contemporary state of upper earth crust horizons”[15,16]. It is not properly ecological geological. It is
Scheme of necessary informational provision of works according to ecological geological map composition[2]
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
considered as the initial for the composition of different types of ecological geological maps. Practically it is the new geological map according to its contents and is the first and necessary stage of this investigation cycle. Essentially, it is the original result of map compilations works. Such map must reflect the whole set of geological parameters, which give the opportunity to estimate the contemporary state of the upper lithosphere horizons and to characterize all properties and functions of lithosphere. “Map of contemporary state of upper earth crust horizons” must become the original “accumulator” of all necessary information, systemized both to lithosphere components, and to parameters, characterized its ecological properties. It is this geological information, which must be obtained by geologists during the field and cameral work. Logically, compositionally and methodically this map creation is described[15,16].
7
36. [2]
References Trofimov V T. Theory and Methodology of Ecological
Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. Ecological Geology. Moscow: Geoinformmark, 2002: 415.
[3]
Vartanyan G S, Kochetkov M V. Geoecological Map Compilation.
Thesis
of
Reports
of
All-Russian
Science-Practical Conference. Moscow: Geoinformmark, 1998, Part I:164, Part II:219, Part III: 181. [4]
Trofimov V T, Korolev V A. New Types of Engineering Geological and Ecological Geological Maps. Transactions of International
Scientific
Conference.
Moscow:
Moscow
University Publishing House, 2001: 186. [5]
Trofimov V T, Ziling D G, Baraboshkina T A, et al. Ecological Geological Maps. S-Petersburg: S-Petersburg University Publishing House, 2002: 130.
[6]
Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. Contents and significance of the doctrine of the ecological functions of the lithosphere.
Discussion
(1) About the methodic of reflection of ecological geological information on the maps. This question is actively worked out in the past years. Ecological resource, ecological geodynamic, ecological geochemical and ecological geophysical, chiefly, analytical maps are created. Weighted data of this question can’t be studied at this article. They can be found by reader in books[2,5]. (2) About psychological questions, which overcoming is necessary for creation of ecological geological map compilation. There are three most important questions. The first question is the understanding by geologists of the position that ecological geological maps are new type of maps, which we are learning to compose. The second question, it must be clearly offered that without narrow contact with the medical and biological sciences representatives, the ecological geological map composition is practically impossible, because the reflected information is specific: it is composed of both geological, and medico-biological indexes. The third foresees the psychological reorganization of the mentality of geologists, the realization of necessity of not only serious geological professional training, but also realization of medico-economical problematic in the volume, sufficient for conducting of team-works with specialists of this work profile. Geologist must learn to use literately non-geological information during the ecological geological map compilation, and then to find the way of using them during treatment of mechanisms of rational management of Earth’s interior using.
[1]
Geology. Moscow: Moscow University Publishing House, 1997:
Otechestvennaya Geologia, 1999, 38(3): 58–64. [7]
Trofimov V T. Ecological Functions of The Lithosphere. Moscow: Moscow University Publishing House, 2000: 430.
[8]
Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. About the contents and types of ecological geological maps. Otechestvennaya Geologia, 2000, 39(3): 10–14.
[9]
Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. Ecological geological maps systematics. Geoecologiya, 2001, 21(1): 66–73.
[10] Trofimov V T. Ecological geology—a novel branch of geological sciences. Earth Science Frontiers, 2001, 8(1): 27–35. [11] Trofimov V T. Ecological functions of the lithosphere. Earth Science Frontiers, 2002, 9(4): 293–303. [12] Trofimov V T. Approaches, principles and criteria of evaluation of ecological geological conditions. Earth Science Frontiers, 2004, 11(2): 533–542. [13] Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. Theoretical basis of ecological geological maps creation. Bulletin of Moscow Society of Nature Investigators: Section of Geology, 2003, 78(3): 61–75. [14] Trofimov V T, Ziling D G, Krasilova N A. Conceptual basis of ecological geological map compilation. Vestnik of Moscow University—Geology, 1998, 52(5): 61–71. [15] Trofimov V T. Logic and Contents of Map of Contemporary State of Upper Horizons of Earth Crust As Factological Basis for Ecological Geological Maps Composition. Moscow: Moscow University Publishing House, 2004: 67. [16] Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. Appointment, contents and methodic of map of contemporary state of upper horizons of earth crust creation. Vestnik of Moscow University—Geology, 2004, 58(1): 40–48.
RESEARCH PAPER
Theoretical Methodological Basis of Creation of Ecological Geological Maps V. T. Trofimov Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 199899, Russia
Abstract: Ecological geological maps are considered as a novel type of geological maps. Classification of the ecological geological maps is presented in this study. The structure of the fundamentals and conceptual thesis (positions) of the compilation of the ecological geological maps and necessary informational basis and problematical questions regarding the creation of ecological geological maps are described. Key Words: ecological geological maps; the structure of theoretical basis of ecological geological mapping; conceptual thesis of ecological geological mapping; the classification of geological ecological maps
1 Ecological geological maps—the novel class of geological maps Ecological geology as a novel branch of geology, devoted to the exploration of the upper horizons of the lithosphere as one of the main abiotic components of ecosystems of a high level of organization, emerged at the end of the twentieth century>1,2@. During this period, the maps of new generatioQügeo-ecological and ecological geological maps appeared in the geological mapping system>3,4@. The different reflections according to contents and methods on the geological maps of the ecologically important geological information were their distinctive features. Ecological geological map is considered by the author as a novel type of geological map. It is a graphical mathematical model depicting ecological geological situation, which gives the generalized picture of the estimation of the state of lithosphere components on the basis of topography, which reflect its ecological functions and properties>1,5@. In fact, it means the spatial graphical reflection of the system “lithosphere (including technologic changes)–biota–man,” with emphasis on the properties of the lithosphere, determining the state of biota and living conditions of humans. The geological characters and reflection of their medical-biological consequences on the map allows to classify it as a novel type of geological map. The ecological geological map has two obligatory blocks (massifs) of information distinct from other geological maps: about the state of ecological geological conditions of lithosphere and its
components and influences on the ecosystems, comfort, and safety conditions for humans. It allows for the characterization of the state of ecological geological system on the map. The creation of such maps demands the clear definition of the main theoretical methodological positions of the compilation of the ecological geological maps. It includes the basis of conception of ecological geology, the basis of criteria of creation and classification of geological ecological maps, the ideas of informational security of their composition, etc. It is very clear that the contents of each type of geological map must be defined by the theoretical positions of the appropriate branch of science. So, the structural-stratigraphicallithological basis, taken from the appropriate branch of geology and providing uniformity in the information given in maps and their comparison underlies the basis of creation of traditional geological maps. The engineering geological maps involve the study about the engineering geological conditions, which allowed for unifying the list and sequence mapping indices. It provides ideas about the ecological functions and properties of the lithosphere, which form the theoretical basis of ecological geology, for the creation of ecological geological maps as a uniting and unified begin, and the graphical illustration is given in Fig. 1>1,2,5–7@.
2 Structure of theoretical basis of ecological geological map compilation Its first five blocks are composed of the important theoretical
Received date: 01-Dec-2007; Accepted date: 01-Apr-2008
Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected] Copyright © 2008, China University of Geosciences (Beijing) and Peking University, Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
Fig. 1
Structure of the theoretical basis of the ecological cartography[8]
thesis of ecological geology, which determines the aims and contents of the compilation of ecological geological maps, and is published in the papers>1,5,8@ with complete details. The last five blocks are directed toward proving the main theoretical and methodological positions of the direct contents of different components of the compilation of the ecological geological maps. These are poorly elucidated in Ref. >4,5,8,9@. The contents of each block of this structure are vast and cannot be fully characterized in this paper[10,11]. In connection with this, the characteristics of the most important, from our point of view, components of the compilation structure of ecological geological maps are proposed.
3 About the criterion base of estimation of ecological geological conditions Under the ecological geological situation (conditions), a combination of concrete ecological properties (functions) of the lithosphere, reflecting present or paleo-state of biota’s living conditions in certain lithosphere volume as their habitat, are considered. Conditions change or not from place to place and also in time in the limits of one massif, one region. In the last case, with time, the ecological geological situation transforms from one state to another. Proceeding from this, the state of ecological geological conditions is determined as a temporary state, evaluated through specificity of one, several, or a combination of the ecological properties (functions) of the lithosphere at the present moment. Ecological properties determine the degree
(level) of suitability and the possibility of the existence of organisms. It is the stage which depicts temporary peculiarities of ecological geological system. They characterize the level of influence of ecological properties and functions of the lithosphere on the organisms. During the estimation of ecological geological conditions, different types of indices are used. They may be thematic, spatial, or dynamic. The first thematic indicate the sapid indices, which characterize the state of ecological geological system, biota, or their individual components. Spatial criteria estimate the area or the volume of breaches according to thematic indices that were enumerated earlier. From the subject point of view, all these criteria are sufficiently variable: biotic, geological, medical-sanitary, and socio-economic, and each of them includes several indices. There are direct and indicated indices>2,7,12,13@. The geographical, geological, pedological, and medicalsanitary specialists proposed the principal four-level system of estimation of the biotic and abiotic components of ecosystem. This system is supported by the closer positions based on each level. The recorded circumstance allowed for providing the following classes of ecological geological conditions>7@: (1) Class of satisfactory (favourable) state, which is correlated with the zone of ecological norm of ecosystem, according to Vinogradov. The importance of direct criteria of estimation of ecological geological state of lithosphere is below the maximum permissible content or background (except natural anomalies). (2) Class of conditionally satisfactory (comparatively
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
unfavourable) state, that is correlated with the ecological risk zone. The territories need the reasonable economical using, planning and using of improvement measures. The value of direct criteria of ecological geological state of lithosphere estimation insignificantly (about 5 times) exceeds maximum permissible content or background (except natural anomalies). (3) Class of unsatisfactory (extremely unfavourable) state, which is correlated with the ecological risk zone. Designed economic usage of territories, planning and timely deep improvement are necessary. The value of direct criteria of ecological geological state of lithosphere estimation exceeds 5 –10 times the maximum permissible content with the ecological disaster zone. The values of direct criteria of ecological geological state of lithosphere estimation are tenfold than those of maximum permissible content or background. In conclusion one question to be discussed must be noted, which is about time and substance of “overgrowing” of traditional geological indices into ecological geological ones. The answer must be formulated in the same way: the overgrowth of geological information into ecological geological one is going on under its usage for the evaluation of biota existence and development. In other words, geological information acquires the ecological geological contents during the ecological geological functional analyses>1,2@ at new ecologically oriented approach.
4 Conceptual positions of ecological geological map compilation We include the following positions: (1) The range of the ecological geological state of lithosphere as a whole or its components on the maps must be produced according to the number of classes. (2) Criteria of class discharge of ecological geological conditions of lithosphere and the zones of ecological state of ecosystem associated with them on maps indicate the indexes, which are divided into the thematic, spatial, and dynamic types. (3) The class discharge of ecological geological conditions of lithosphere and zones of ecological state of ecosystem can be and must be realized on the base of several representative indices, but obligatorily with the consideration of the thematic, spatial and dynamic estimation criteria. (4) The reflection of the indexes on the geological base, using the time of ecological geological map creation, the spatial estimation of the ecological geological state of the mapping object of the lithosphere, and the treatment of prognosis rate may be possible on the basis of these indexes. (5) The classification according to contents and scale must take into account all their variety and secure the possibility of register of ecological geological situation in real project of ecologically oriented measures. (6) Characteristic of the ecological geological state of
lithosphere and their estimation in either category must be reflected on all types of ecological geological maps with the help of background color painting. (7) The choice of the methods of the reflection on the map of the integral estimation of the ecological geological state conditions of lithosphere can be lead to the total estimation of the different ecological properties of the separate components of the lithosphere by different methods, such as the points, the worst variant>1,14@.
5
Classification of ecological geological maps
The classification of ecological geological maps according to their contents, practice appointment, scale, and character of renovation of the transmitted material was suggested by Trofimov and Ziling>8,9@. 5.1 The ecological geological map classification according to content The ecological geological maps are referred to the category of thematic geological maps and are, as it was mentioned, their new type. According to contents, it is expediently divided into four types: (1) the ecological geological conditions (situations) maps; (2) ecological geological zoning maps; (3) ecological geological prognosis maps; and (4) ecological geological recommendation maps (Fig. 2). The first type must be theoretically referred to as the category of factological maps; however, in all cases, such maps are composed as factological-appraisable, when the data are reflected in comparative units. The second type of ecological geological maps is doubly appraisable, the third and the fourth types have the nature protection, exact litho-protection, recommendations, directed to the ecological geological conditions regulation, with a view on their preservation or improvement. Each of these four types of maps is divided according to the character of transmitted sapid information into two types: analytic (often named private) and synthetic (complex). The first characterized or estimated, prognosticated one or several indexes of geological ecological conditions. And on the synthetic maps, the whole complex is reflected, which defined the modern or prognosticable ecological geological situation. Let us explain the contents of the types and kinds of maps. 5.1.1 Ecological geological conditions (situations) maps The maps of ecological geological conditions reflects the complex of parameters or individual characteristics of lithosphere, which characterized the opportunity of the influence of lithosphere components on the biota (man, fauna, flora, and ecosystem as a whole). It may include, for example, the lithosphere pollution by the toxic materials, spatial distribution by the geological processes, inhomogeneity of geophysical fields, demerits of different types of resources for the living. Such direct or relative quantitative or qualitative
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
information is completed by the knowledge about the endemic sicknesses of population and the parameters of degradation of ecosystem and its biotic components. All necessary data are reflected by the method of separate map compilation on these maps; their summary estimation according to the degree of suitability, comfort, or safety of human living or ecological state of ecosystem is not given. Synthetic (complex) maps of ecological geological conditions reflect all combination of necessary parameters of contemporary ecological geological situation. Analytic maps of this type carry the spatial information only about one, as usual, particular and important feature of this situation for solving the question. On analytic maps, the peculiarities of ecological geological conditions may be reflected, which are stipulated by the show of only resource or only geochemical ecological function of lithosphere or even separate components. The functionally oriented analytic maps, reflecting these situations, expediently can be named as “ecological resource map”, “ecological geodynamical map”, “ecological geochemical map”, and “ecological geophysical map” (Fig. 2). 5.1.2 Ecological geological zoning maps Ecological geological zoning maps are the appraisable
Fig. 2
maps, and the estimation of contemporary state of ecological geological conditions, as well, is given by the method of their range on the classes of conditions. It is the most important type in composition of ecological geological maps, which is the basis for prognosis estimation and nature defenses measures. On the basis of the ecological geological information, the estimation from the position of comfort and safety of human life and function of ecosystem is given on these maps. In the legend of zoning maps, as in the condition map’s legend, there are certainly two blocks: the ecological geological information about the lithosphere and its components and the information about ecosystems and their biotic components. The principle difference of this information is that it is the factological characteristics on the maps of conditions, and on the maps of zoning of the ecological estimation of these characteristics with the definition of classes of state of ecological geological conditions of lithosphere and the zones of ecological state of ecosystems connected with them. The spatial territory insulation with the definite class of ecological state is the substance of such maps. Ecological geological maps may be synthetic and analytic
Classification of the ecological geological maps according to its content[2,10,12]
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
according to their content. It is expedient to distinguish “ecological resource zoning”, “ecological geodynamic zoning”, “ecological geochemical zoning” and “ecological geophysical zoning” among the analytic maps (Fig. 2). 5.1.3
Ecological geological prognosis maps
Ecological geological prognosis maps. They reflect the spatial-temporary prognoses of ecological geological conditions changing during the natural dynamic of natural surrounding and the main–during the economic mastering of territory and natural technical systems. The complex (according to all parameters, conditions and natural probabilities and technogenic influences) and private (the change caused by any factor under the influence of definite type) change ecological geological conditions prognoses may be reflected on this type of maps. The first case is synthetic type, the second is of analytic ecological geological prognosis map. 5.1.4
Ecological geological recommendation maps
Ecological geological recommendation maps are based on the ecological geological and social economical information. These maps are the basis for various recommendations, from the rational (from ecological and geological viewpoint) recommendations on territory using till regulation of the economic activities and defense of bio-and socio-sphere objects. Their list is demonstrated in Fig. 2. Such types of maps are generally similar to synthetic maps. It is the discussion question to refer this type of maps to the ecological geological category. In the strict sense, the nature defense maps (the considered type of maps is referred to them) compose the special category, the independent class of thematic maps, which help and promote to accept the controlling decisions. However, the information characteristic, and exactly the ecological geological basis of the composition of such maps allows for considering them as a “final” ecological geological maps block. 5.2 Ecological geological map division according to their appointment According to this sign, ecological geological maps can be divided like engineering geological ones into common (general) and special types. First of them characterize the parameters of ecological geological conditions without the accounting of definite type of biota influence on what is estimated, and without the accounting of concrete, narrowly aimed map using. On the basis of this, the common ecological geological maps are the maps that have many objectives. Second in special maps, only the ecological geological information, necessary for the given problem solving, is reflected. The information on the ecological geological zoning and prognosis maps is reflected analogously. It distinguishes the regional or more often typological taxonomic units, comparatively homogeneous according to the combination of ecological geological conditions on the common appointment
maps. On the special maps, the homogeneity of conditions of distinguished tax on is defined according to the classification mostly responds for the proposed problem and, as a rule, set in the technical assignment. Prognosis data about the changes of ecological geological conditions under the effect of the most typical natural and technological influence are reflected on the common maps (according to their appointment). They probably change under the same conditions with the influence of the definite type and intensiveness to show subject on the special ecological geological prognosis maps. 5.3 Subdivision of ecological geological maps according to the scale According to this sign, the ecological geological maps by analogy with engineering geological maps are divided into the review (scale smaller 1:1000,000), small scale (scale 1:000,000–1:500,000), medium scale (1:200,000–1:50,000), and large scale (1:25,000 and large). 5.4 Subdivision of ecological geological maps according to the character of renovation of referred material According to this sign, two types of ecological geological are distinguished: maps with fixated contents of information and maps with permanent addition information. The large part of ecological geological maps is referred to as the first type. The main deficiency is static, even ecological geological situation is the dynamic system. This deficiency may be conquered by the composition of maps with permanent complemented information. Such maps are commonly named duty and their contents are supplemented by the new data of changes of ecological geological conditions. How the duty ecological geological maps of different types and different contents may be composed of ? At first it is the analytical maps of ecological geological conditions, on which all the data about the determined changes of separate components of geological environment are reflected. On this basis the synthetic map of engineering geological conditions may be constantly renewed. Presence and analysis of duty ecological geological maps permit to get the operative and authentically data about the dynamic of changes and already formed changes of ecological geological situation. On this basis the measures of rational, ecologically oriented using of territory may be ground realized its management with the help of restricting or protective measures.
6 Necessary informational base of composition of ecological geological maps The substance and structure of informational base of ecological geological maps is defined with not only the necessity of accumulation and systematization of ecological geological information, but also by the creation of its
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
necessary thematical destination taking into account the specification (type) of composed maps. It is essential that the investigator can provide set content and quality of cartographical production only through informational provision. Proceeding from these, the ideas of the following scheme of informational provision of different types of maps may be offered (Fig. 3). The first block of information must provide the possibility of ecological geological conditions (furniture) map composition and include wide range of indexes and characteristics, which permit to estimate the contemporary ecological state of lithosphere (its ecological properties) and the state of ecosystem as a whole or its separate biotic components. This information may carry both point and square character and reflect the results of field investigations and literature and fund materials. The geologists collect it for abiotic components of ecosystem, and for biotic components this information is gathered in special organizations or ordered to professional specialists. It must be emphasized that the main destination of the first information block is the systematization of all factological data according to observed problem and minimum limited list of common geological information. The second block of information is called to provide two positions, which are the zoning and range of getting information into four classes of ecological geological conditions of lithosphere state and setting the connection with
Fig. 3
zones of ecological territory breaking. The first position is connected with complementary material gathering the factors, to provide the carrying of aimed ecological geological territory zoning taking into account its functional organization. The second position is based on the idea of close correlation between the ecosystems and realized on the basis of being in first block information with the attraction of normative methodical documents. The third block is intended for prognosis of ecological geological maps composition and includes: the receipt of data about the in situ observations results, necessity for ascertaining of tendency of evolution of lithosphere components at the setting level of technical lading, receipt of data of economical territory development, and the awaiting of technical lading level. The information receipt of regime observations of all nature and ecosystem components, which are reflected at the ecological geological maps and real plan of using economic mastering or territory is the essential part. It’s important that map treatment requires data search and accounting, which pass the limits of professional interests of geologist. Just it demands the attraction of specialists of appropriate profile for maps composition during the recommendation treatment for the nature defense and management solutions acceptance. And the last thing in this question. Let’s specially stop at the “Map of contemporary state of upper earth crust horizons”[15,16]. It is not properly ecological geological. It is
Scheme of necessary informational provision of works according to ecological geological map composition[2]
V. T. Trofimov / Earth Science Frontiers, 2008, 15(6): 199–207
considered as the initial for the composition of different types of ecological geological maps. Practically it is the new geological map according to its contents and is the first and necessary stage of this investigation cycle. Essentially, it is the original result of map compilations works. Such map must reflect the whole set of geological parameters, which give the opportunity to estimate the contemporary state of the upper lithosphere horizons and to characterize all properties and functions of lithosphere. “Map of contemporary state of upper earth crust horizons” must become the original “accumulator” of all necessary information, systemized both to lithosphere components, and to parameters, characterized its ecological properties. It is this geological information, which must be obtained by geologists during the field and cameral work. Logically, compositionally and methodically this map creation is described[15,16].
7
36. [2]
References Trofimov V T. Theory and Methodology of Ecological
Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. Ecological Geology. Moscow: Geoinformmark, 2002: 415.
[3]
Vartanyan G S, Kochetkov M V. Geoecological Map Compilation.
Thesis
of
Reports
of
All-Russian
Science-Practical Conference. Moscow: Geoinformmark, 1998, Part I:164, Part II:219, Part III: 181. [4]
Trofimov V T, Korolev V A. New Types of Engineering Geological and Ecological Geological Maps. Transactions of International
Scientific
Conference.
Moscow:
Moscow
University Publishing House, 2001: 186. [5]
Trofimov V T, Ziling D G, Baraboshkina T A, et al. Ecological Geological Maps. S-Petersburg: S-Petersburg University Publishing House, 2002: 130.
[6]
Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. Contents and significance of the doctrine of the ecological functions of the lithosphere.
Discussion
(1) About the methodic of reflection of ecological geological information on the maps. This question is actively worked out in the past years. Ecological resource, ecological geodynamic, ecological geochemical and ecological geophysical, chiefly, analytical maps are created. Weighted data of this question can’t be studied at this article. They can be found by reader in books[2,5]. (2) About psychological questions, which overcoming is necessary for creation of ecological geological map compilation. There are three most important questions. The first question is the understanding by geologists of the position that ecological geological maps are new type of maps, which we are learning to compose. The second question, it must be clearly offered that without narrow contact with the medical and biological sciences representatives, the ecological geological map composition is practically impossible, because the reflected information is specific: it is composed of both geological, and medico-biological indexes. The third foresees the psychological reorganization of the mentality of geologists, the realization of necessity of not only serious geological professional training, but also realization of medico-economical problematic in the volume, sufficient for conducting of team-works with specialists of this work profile. Geologist must learn to use literately non-geological information during the ecological geological map compilation, and then to find the way of using them during treatment of mechanisms of rational management of Earth’s interior using.
[1]
Geology. Moscow: Moscow University Publishing House, 1997:
Otechestvennaya Geologia, 1999, 38(3): 58–64. [7]
Trofimov V T. Ecological Functions of The Lithosphere. Moscow: Moscow University Publishing House, 2000: 430.
[8]
Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. About the contents and types of ecological geological maps. Otechestvennaya Geologia, 2000, 39(3): 10–14.
[9]
Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. Ecological geological maps systematics. Geoecologiya, 2001, 21(1): 66–73.
[10] Trofimov V T. Ecological geology—a novel branch of geological sciences. Earth Science Frontiers, 2001, 8(1): 27–35. [11] Trofimov V T. Ecological functions of the lithosphere. Earth Science Frontiers, 2002, 9(4): 293–303. [12] Trofimov V T. Approaches, principles and criteria of evaluation of ecological geological conditions. Earth Science Frontiers, 2004, 11(2): 533–542. [13] Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. Theoretical basis of ecological geological maps creation. Bulletin of Moscow Society of Nature Investigators: Section of Geology, 2003, 78(3): 61–75. [14] Trofimov V T, Ziling D G, Krasilova N A. Conceptual basis of ecological geological map compilation. Vestnik of Moscow University—Geology, 1998, 52(5): 61–71. [15] Trofimov V T. Logic and Contents of Map of Contemporary State of Upper Horizons of Earth Crust As Factological Basis for Ecological Geological Maps Composition. Moscow: Moscow University Publishing House, 2004: 67. [16] Trofimov V T, Ziling D G. Appointment, contents and methodic of map of contemporary state of upper horizons of earth crust creation. Vestnik of Moscow University—Geology, 2004, 58(1): 40–48.