In this study we present quantitative elemental analysis techniques like energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis and instrumental neutron activation analysis to assess the impact of industrial discharge on environment. Two cases are discussed, i.e., (a) enrichment of zinc levels in the soil (1080 ± 76 mg kg^-1) and zinc uptake ranging between 628 and 40 mg kg^-1 in edible plants and cereals grown in agricultural fields near an active zinc smelter,Rajasthan; (b) depthwise distribution of Cr, Pb and other metals in the sediment core samples from Sundarban wetland, West Bengal, indicating waste discharge from tanneries and other industries.