Since the last edition was published in 1991, the "Merian" has established itself as the standard reference on this topic, and remains unmatched in the breadth of material covered. This new edition has 20 % more pages while being more clearly and concisely structured. New topical features are the focus on nutritional aspects and the coverage of further elements, including non-metals. The newly added chapters cover more than 15 essential elements, as well as some of environmental and nutritional importance. While many chapters of the previous edition have been practically rewritten to accommodate the rapid progress made in this field, all the contributions have been revised and updated to present the current state of knowledge. As such, the handbook continues to provide detailed information on the environmental metals that influence the health of plants, animals and humans, with particular attention given to environmental and analytical chemistry, bioavailability, metabolic pathways and biological effects. It also delineates the problems related to waste, soils and wildlife as well as the risks caused by the increasing output of metals from industry and households. It retains the proven features of the first edition, such as the extensive bibliography, numerous tables with useful data and a glossary of terms, and once again all the contributions were not only written but also reviewed by acknowledged and experienced experts. In total, international experts from 15 countries have pooled their knowledge and experience to create this ultimate resource. Essential information for chemists, biologists, geologists, food scientists, toxicologists and physiologists involved in environmental research and remediation, risk assessment, food research and industrial hygiene.