Soil Acidification Patterns Due to Long-Term Sulphur and Nitrogen Deposition and How They Affect Changes in Vegetation Composition in Eastern Serbia

Abstract

AbstractA rapid change in soil chemistry caused by long-term acidic deposition directly and indirectly disturbs natural habitats and ecosystem functions. The aim of this paper was to analyse long-term depositions of sulphur and nitrogen, their relationship with the soil’s chemical properties, and areas currently/potentially at risk of ecosystem degradation. Models recommended by the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (CLRTAP) were applied. Critical Loads calculations were derived for acidification, eutrophication and biodiversity using the VSD model. Changes in plant diversity and soil properties of beech forests and highland grasslands were simulated using the VSD\(+\)PROPS model based on future air pollution and RCP 4.0 climate scenarios. The results showed areas and biological receptors with varying degrees of vulnerability and susceptibility to air pollutants, as well as identifying areas that are adversely affected by the long-term deposition of sulphur and nitrogen. Mountain forests and high mountain grasslands developed on shallow soils exhibit the highest levels of sensitivity to acidic pollutants and climate change in Eastern Serbia. To provide a background for interpreting the results of the comparative analysis on air pollution and climate change effects at regional level, process-based and spatial distribution modelling were used. Estimated critical loads on both a regional and local level indicate ecosystems’ sensitivity and potential risk of degradation, providing a good basis for planning emission reduction on a regional level and evolving adaptive management measures in situ.KeywordsSoil acidificationAir pollutionCritical loadsClimate changeBiodiversity