Geochemical investigation of soil quality in terms of toxic elements using an AHP-based index.

In this study, a new Ecological Soil Pollution Index (ESPI) and the associated classification system for this index have been proposed to determine the pollution potential of soil. ESPI was designed using eight elements, namely arsenic, lead, cadmium, nickel, copper, zinc, chromium and cobalt. ESPI, calculated based on the AHP method, is categorized into four classes inspired by the recommendation of some international organizations such as World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization.