Paper Title
ARSENIC CONTAMINATION OF SOILS OF RACHA-LECHKHUMI AND KVEMO SVANETI REGION OF GEORGIA

Abstract
Abstract - The level of arsenic contamination of the soils in the areas surrounding the arsenic processing enterprises of the Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti regions are discussed. Soil samples were taken from polluted, agricultural, recreational and background sites at 0-5 and 5-20 cm depths. Arsenic content was determined in the soil samples collected. The obtained results are presented in the form of conclusions. Analyzes were carried out using modern methods and equipment that meet and correspond to European standards. Based on the determination of arsenic concentration in soil samples, the following conclusions were made: • According to the results of the research conducted in the areas affected by arsenic factories in Ambrolauri municipality, the soils of Uravi-2 and in Lentekhi - Tsana-1 are the most contaminated with arsenic; • Average level of arsenic contamination is noted on agricultural fields; • There is less arsenic contamination in recreational areas; • Relatively high concentrations of arsenic are observed in the background areas and such a high concentration may be caused by the natural presence of arsenic in the soil; • 30 at-risk soil sampling facilities were identified, where the Arsenic hazard index is more than 1 (HQs >1); • In all cases the content of arsenic is higher in the soils’ upper layer (0-5 cm depth) than in the lower layer (5-20 cm depth); • Based on the received data, a map of arsenic contamination of the soils of the Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti regions was compiled in the GIS system. The most vulnerable points of soil arsenic contamination have been identified: in the areas adjacent to arsenic factories in the municipalities of Ambrolauri and Lentekhi; From the agricultural fields to the villages of Abari and Likheti, where phytoremediation will be carried out. Keywords - Pollution, Arsenic, Soils, Hazard Index, Polluted Map.