Distribution of copper, cadmium, and lead in soils from former industrialized urban areas of Beijing, China.

Concentrations and distributions of cadmium, copper, and lead in soils from several industrialized urban areas of Beijing, China were investigated. The mean concentration of Cd in surface soils was not significantly greater than the regional background concentration, while those of Cu and Pb were significantly greater than regional background concentrations. All soil profiles exhibited a decreasing trend in concentrations of Cd, Cu, and Pb with depth. Concentrations of Cu and Pb were greatest at a depth of 0-80 cm, and exceeded the regional concentrations. Concentrations of Cd, Cu, and Pb at some industrial sites would necessitate active remedial actions.