Monitoring Protocol for Potential Hydrogen Sulfide Effects on the Moss (Racomitrium Lanuginosum) Around Geothermal Power Plants in Iceland

Abstract

Following environmental concerns on the effect of H2S gas emissions from geothermal power plant emission on ecosystems and especially moss heaths in Iceland, plant health assessment is paramount in ascertaining ecological sustainability. The effect of wet H2S deposition on the moss Racomitrium lanuginosum from geothermal power plants needs to be established around all geothermal development projects with a continuous eco-toxicological monitoring plan. Determination of environmental variables such as wind direction, speed and topography is necessary in choosing sampling/monitoring points. Moss plant parameters such as growth, physiognomy. nutrient and tissue chemistry should be determined on a quarterly basis. Ambient H2S concentrations should also be measured and correlated to moss tissue chemistry for potential relationships and effects. This paper presents different moss eco-physiological variables that should be measured and monitored on a quarterly basis to complement existing environment management plans around geothermal power plants in Iceland toward sustainable developmen