Multi-element isotopic signature (C, N, Pb, Hg) in epiphytic lichens to discriminate atmospheric contamination as a function of land-use characteristics (Pyrénées-Atlantiques, SW France)

Multi-elemental isotopic approach associated with a land-use characteristic sampling strategy may be relevant for conducting biomonitoring studies to determine the spatial extent of atmospheric contamination sources. In this work, we investigated how the combined isotopic signatures in epiphytic lichens of two major metallic pollutants, lead (206Pb/207Pb) and mercury (δ202Hg, Δ199Hg), together with the isotopic composition of nitrogen and carbon (δ15N, δ13C), can be used to better constrain atmospheric contamination inputs. To this end, an intensive and integrated sampling strategy based on land-use characteristics (Geographic information system, GIS) over a meso-scale area (Pyrénées-Atlantiques, SW France) was applied to more than 90 sampling stations. To depict potential relationships between such multi-elemental isotopic fingerprint and land-use characteristics, multivariate analysis was carried out. Combined Pb and Hg isotopic signatures resolved spatially the contribution of background atmospheric inputs from long range transport, from local legacy contamination (i.e. Pb) or actual industrial inputs (i.e. Pb and Hg from steel industry). Application of clustering multivariate analysis to all studied isotopes provided a new assessment of the region in accordance with the land-use characteristics and anthropogenic pressures. [Display omitted] •Combined isotopic signatures of Pb, Hg, N and C in epiphytic lichens is investigated.•Integrated sampling strategy based on land-use characteristics is applied.•Relationships between isotopic fingerprints and land-use characteristics is performed.•Isotopic signatures (Hg,Pb) can spatially resolve contamination inputs. Multi-elemental isotopic fingerprints (Pb, Hg, N, C) and land-use characteristics resolved spatially the contribution of atmospheric inputs in epiphytic lichens.