China soil geochemical baselines networks: Data characteristics

World-recognized harmonious geochemical baselines data are used to quantify environmental changes and mineral resources. The China Geochemical Baselines (CGB) project, as a part of Global Geochemical Baselines, was implemented from 2008-2014. The China Geochemical Baselines Networks with approximately 1600 reference grids cover the whole China. 6617 soil samples from 3382 drainage catchments were collected across China's whole mainland. 81 geochemical parameters including 78 chemical elements plus other 5 indicators were determined. China geochemical baselines data and maps were produced across the whole China. The baselines data and maps of 76 elements have correlation with geology, mineral resources, climate and human activities.