Evaluation of lead concentration by one-box type multimedia model in Lake Biwa-Yodo River basin of Japan

► One-box type multimedia model on metallic compounds were constructed. ► Lead concentrations in four environmental media were interpreted by the model. ► Lead emissions were estimated from 1957 to 2007 and temporal accumulation of lead was studied. ► Calculated lead concentrations were compared with observed lead concentrations. ► Lead concentrations in soil and water body were closely predicted by the model.