This month's Women in Soil Science-Australia Seminar Series speaker is Associate Professor Suzie Reichman who will be speaking on "Safeguarding Our Cities' Soils: Insights from Urban Soil Pollution Research"

About the speaker

Associate Professor Suzie Reichman is a soil chemist and ecotoxicologist at the University of Melbourne. Suzie’s research concentrates on safeguarding the environment from the impacts of soil pollution by investigating how contaminants like microplastics, PFAS, and heavy metals affect soil health and ecosystems. Her research provides important evidence to help government, industry and communities assess risks and make better decisions for safely managing contaminated sites. Additionally, Suzie enjoys science communication, regularly appearing in news media to discuss pollution issues and share insights from her research.

Abstract

From backyard veggie patches to roadside verges, the urban soils we live, work and play on are susceptible to a complex mixture of pollutants. In this presentation to Women in Soil Science Australia, Assoc. Prof. Suzie Reichman will share insights from the SoilTox Lab's research investigating these urban contaminants. Their studies have examined legacy metal contamination in residential areas and associated health risks to urban food producers from home-grown vegetables and chicken foraging. The team has also researched the extent and impacts of vehicle pollution, including metals, platinum group elements, and tire wear particles, on roadside soils and ecosystems. Recommendations will be provided on how to reduce personal contributions to, and exposure from, urban soil pollution. Through this body of work, the SoilTox Lab at the University of Melbourne aims to advance understanding of the fate, behaviour and risks posed by urban soil contaminants to ultimately safeguard environmental and human health.