Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 7.16. Spatial variation of nitrate
in groundwater, Granville Cemetery
'B' (Values are in mg/l).
The major source of these contaminants is likely to be the decomposition of human
bodies, with thedistribution of parameters relating to the stages of decomposition and
associated releases and the ages of graves.
There is also a natural input from water-rock interactions, especially feldspar
hydrolysis.
The responsible authority should undertake mitigatory measures to decrease the
environmental impactof the cemetery, including development of a tree barrier and the
grouting of the downflow side of the site.
Cemetery authorities should ensure that a clay layer is always placed at the base of new
graves.
4.3
Concluding remarks-urban planning
The main problems that have emerged at the two sites studied are typical of cases of this
kind. The problems are, however, exacerbated by poor planning and site selection. The
choice of location for both Golden Quarry landfill and Granville cemetery was based
upon the availability of land to the city authorities at the time. The choice of Granville
farm for a cemetery was also influenced by environmental concerns-the city authorities
rejected the first farm offered as it was within a source protection zone for the Mukuvisi
River. Nevertheless, the location selected (Granville) remains problematic, as the high
water table accelerates groundwater pollution at the cemetery. The location of the Golden
