The methods arc described for determinations of Al, Fe, Ca, Mg, Ba, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd, V and Sr in botanical, coal fly ash and soil samples by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS), and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (!CP-AES). Special attention has been paid to sample preparation, an important stage at which a sample is explored to contaminants. Results of the analysis of all samples arc discussed.