Long-term evolution of the surface environment of the Campine area, northeastern Belgium: first assessment

Abstract

AbstractIn this paper we describe the characteristics of the surface environment of the Boom Clay in the Campine area (outcrop and subcrop zone), which is regarded as a potential host formation for disposal of radioactive waste. A good description and understanding of the relationship between surface variables – the geomorphology, hydrography, vegetation, soils, land use and hydrology – is needed to evaluate the past evolution and assess the future evolution of the surface environment. Changing climatic conditions (glacials and interglacials), global sea-level variations and tectonic movements (uplift and subsidence) may cause the surface environment to change profoundly over long timescales. Starting from the present status, the palaeogeographical and palaeohydrological evolution of the Campine area is described in the framework of the Quaternary geological history of the area. Finally, a first assessment of possible future conditions of the surface environment is given, based on the integration of the palaeorecord and several published modelling studies.