Copper in the Soil

Copper (Cu) is the 25th most abundant component of the Earth’s crust, it is also an essential micronutrient element for the growth and development of plants, animals, and humans. However, excessive Cu in the soil is potentially dangerous and can be very toxic to microflora, flora, fauna, and humans. This chapter introduces the geogenic and anthropogenic sources of Cu in the soil. The environmental fate and transport and the environmental exposure and health effects of Cu are also presented. The legislation relating to Cu presence in soil, water, and food is discussed, and the remediation options and case studies for Cu polluted soils are reviewed. Challenges related to Cu management are also proposed in this review.