Webb J S, Howarth R J
Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 1979 Dec 11;288(1026):81-93. doi: 10.1098/rstb.1979.0092.
One of the prime requirements for effective study of environmental geochemistry in relation to health is the production of multi-element atlases showing the distribution of the elements on the regional scale. The choice of method for compiling such atlases can vary according to a number of geological, environmental and other factors. The overriding consideration, however, is to assist (in conjunction with other relevant sources of information) in defining, quickly and cheaply, potential problem areas wherein to concentrate more detailed studies to ensure maximum return from the funds and scientific manpower available. Numerous sampling and analytical techniques have been employed. Each technique and approach has its own scope, limitation and problems of interpretation. Whatever method is chosen, the use of computer-based statistical data reduction, analysis and map compilation is mandatory. Although it was apparent more than 20 years ago that geochemical atlases would eventually become a national cartographic requirement, regional geochemical mapping is still in the experimental stage. This trend is now evident in activity in a number of countries. The methods being employed, however, are so diverse that there is an urgent need for international collaboration aimed at securing data that are as mutually compatible as possible, having regard to the conditions, needs and resources of the individual countries involved.
有效开展与健康相关的环境地球化学研究的首要要求之一，是制作多元素地图集，展示区域尺度上元素的分布情况。编制此类地图集的方法选择会因多种地质、环境及其他因素而有所不同。然而，首要考虑的是（结合其他相关信息来源）快速且低成本地协助确定潜在问题区域，以便集中开展更详细的研究，确保从可用资金和科研人力中获得最大回报。已采用了众多采样和分析技术。每种技术和方法都有其自身的适用范围、局限性及解释问题。无论选择何种方法，基于计算机的统计数据简化、分析和地图编制都是必不可少的。尽管20多年前就已明显看出地球化学地图集最终将成为国家制图要求，但区域地球化学制图仍处于试验阶段。这种趋势目前在一些国家的活动中很明显。然而，所采用的方法如此多样，迫切需要开展国际合作，以便在考虑到相关各国的条件、需求和资源的情况下，获取尽可能相互兼容的数据。
