Contaminants are introduced into the environment through various pathways, including natural hazardous events. Here, we define them as substances, organic (e.g., biological byproducts, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, etc.) or inorganic (e.g., heavy metals) that are detrimental to human and ecosystem health. Natural hazards can transport and distribute contaminants through physical and chemical processes (e.g., wind currents, floods, and wildfires). As the frequency and severity of hazard events increase, so does the potential for widespread environmental pollution, especially in densely populated regions. Understanding the fate and transport of these compounds is critical to assessing potential risks and long term impacts of natural hazards. 

This session invites studies on post-hazard contaminant dynamics, including source identification, modeling, and predictions of distribution. We welcome research across hazards, including but not limited to wildfires, tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, floods, earthquakes, and landslides. Interdisciplinary research assessing multiple species and hazard types is especially encouraged.

• B - Biogeosciences
• GC - Global Environmental Change
• GH - GeoHealth
• H - Hydrology