| Abstract [eng] |
This dissertation addresses the critical yet understudied issue of indoor dust pollution, focusing specifically on heavy metals (HMs) within educational environments in Vilnius, Lithuania. The author thoroughly explores the presence, sources, and health implications of indoor dust contamination, emphasizing the vulnerability of children who spend significant periods in school settings. By conducting extensive sampling across 24 general education institutions, the research provides detailed quantitative analyses of metal concentrations, linking these indoor pollutants with external sources such as outdoor particulate matter and soil contaminants. Notably, the dissertation uses advanced methods, including Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) and geospatial mapping, to identify and clearly illustrate the pathways through which external pollutants migrate indoors. This methodological approach strengthens the findings and offers robust evidence of the significant health risks posed by HM exposure, including both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic impacts. One of the most compelling aspects of this research is the integration of epidemiological data with rigorous health risk modeling. The findings highlight alarming levels of contamination, particularly of heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, zinc, and copper, suggesting urgent interventions are required to protect the health of schoolchildren. The dissertation effectively fills a research gap by providing localized data from Lithuanian schools, contributing valuable insights into global discussions on indoor environmental quality and child health. Its detailed exploration of contamination sources, coupled with clear recommendations for mitigation, makes it essential reading for policymakers, school administrators, public health officials, and environmental researchers concerned with indoor air quality and public health protection. |
