Abstract
Inland valleys have complex geo-ecological systems and hence biochemical accumulation of heavy metals in soils is inevitable.Such a situation can affect crop physiology and produce quality. This study was therefore carried out to ascertain the extent of heavy metal accumulation in Anum inland valley which fringed a mining concession at Konongo in Ghana. The study revealed that accumulation of heavy metals particularly iron and lead occurred in soils and crops, a phenomenon that can result in reduction of crop quality and yield from such valleys. The concentration of lead in the rice tissue was between 2 mg/kg and 13 mg/kg while that of iron was between 1400 mg/kg and 4500 mg/kg. The study concluded that inland valleys can be real environmental liability because produce from such valleys can be polluted and hence can be a source of social conflict particularly when they fringe mineral concessions as the adverse impacts could be unfortunately attributed to mining activity and similar land uses. Hence, development of a mine in such areas requires a comprehensive environmental impact assessment to ascertain the environmental quality of the adjoining inland valleys to prevent social conflict with the host community.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.