Application of isotope as a nuclear technique in groundwater pollution assessment due to human activities

Abstract

Clean and sustainable groundwater is an important asset for human life and ecosystems. However, the threat of groundwater pollution is increasing as a result of human activities such as industrial, agricultural, and municipal. The objective of this review article is to examine how isotope techniques, as one of the nuclear techniques serve as an effective tool in studying, detecting, and understanding the issue of groundwater pollution stemming from anthropogenic activity on the surface. This article covers the description and discussion of the types of isotopes used in the detection of groundwater pollution and factors that influence the variation in the composition of isotopes in groundwater based on the findings of previous studies. In addition, this article also comments on the study of groundwater pollution using isotopes in the context of groundwater pollution assessment in Malaysia. This article serves as a guide or reference to researchers, environmental professionals, and water resources managers who want to understand and implement nuclear techniques in the monitoring and assessment of groundwater pollution. This article also outlines a holistic view on the resolution of groundwater pollution issues through the application of nuclear techniques and isotopes as a significant tool in ensuring sustainable environmental management.