The present thesis investigates the relationship between recent fluvial morphodynamics and pollutant dispersion in river systems. The subject is discussed based on the neighboring catchments of the rivers Geul, Wurm, and Inde. The catchments are located at the border triangle of Belgium, Netherlands and Germany, and have a similar size of approximately 325 km2 whilst the length of the rivers is about 55 km. This study area is representative of the transition zone between low mountain ranges and lowlands, and is amongst the oldest regions influenced by industry in Europe. Therefore, the existing pollution is not only originated from present-day sources, but also from the region’s past mining and other industries. The investigations are based on a comparison of the catchments by means of sediment analysis and the outcome of historical research, complemented by a comprehensive deep dive into the Inde catchment.The study region has a history of anthropogenic pollution of soil, water, and air. The Inde and Geul catchments were rich in ore which resulted in lead, zinc and iron mining, processing and subsequent slag dumping. The first evidence of mining dates back to the Pre-Roman age, whereas the zenith took place during the early industrial era and disappeared in the early 20th century. On the other hand, the Wurm catchment was rich in coal. Subsequent mining took place between the Early Middle Ages and the 20th century. The same applies to the Inde catchment between the 14th and 20th century. Mining activities led to the establishment of industry in the study area, especially related to iron, steel, and brass manufacturing. Other important industries were textile production as well as glass and needle factories. Until the late 18th century, the rivers were an important source of energy and therefore the location where these industrial activities took place. Moreover, rivers were used for the disposal of industrial and municipal wastewater as well as shaft water. Additional disposal occurred in the form of widespread ...