Contaminated Soil Research Articles

Microplastics in rice-based farming systems and their connection to plastic waste management in the Chicoral district of Espinal-Tolima.

Microplastics in rice-based farming systems and their connection to plastic waste management in the Chicoral district of Espinal-Tolima.

Heavy metal adsorption efficiency prediction using biochar properties: a comparative analysis for ensemble machine learning models

The contamination of water and soils with heavy metals poses a significant environmental threat, making the development of effective removal strategies a global priority. Hence, the determination of heavy metals can play an essential role in environmental monitoring and assessment. In the current research, ensemble machine learning (ML) models (i.e., Random Forest Regressor (RFR), Adaptive Boosting (Adaboost), Gradient Boosting (GB), HistGradientBoosting, Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and Light Gradient-Boosting Machine (LightGBM)) were applied in attempt to predict the adsorption efficiency of several heavy metals (i.e., Pb, Cd, Ni, Cu, and Zn) according to different factors including temperature, pH, and biochar characteristics. Data were collected from open-source literature review including 353 samples. At the first stage, data processing was performed including outliers’ removal and scaling for better data modeling applicability; whereas, in the second stage the predictive models were conducted. The results showed that XGBoost model attained the superior accuracy in comparison with other models by achieving the highest determination coefficient (R2 = 0.92). The research was extended to investigate the feature importance analysis which indicated that the initial concentration ratio of metals to biochar and pH were the most influential factors toward the adsorption efficiency followed by Pyrolysis temperature, while other features like physical properties as surface area and pore structure had a minimal effect on efficiency. These findings highlighted the importance of using ensemble ML models in guiding heavy metals removal solutions as it provides an efficient prediction and ease the selection of the environmental application.

Contamination of water resources, soils and infrastructure objects in the area of Elbrus mountain by helminth infestation elements

The increase in the number of farm and domestic animals living with humans leads to uncontrolled pollution of the environment with faeces. In the Russian Federation, helminth infestations of animals and humans have become widespread and cause serious problems. In the regions of the North Caucasus Federal District, including the Kabardino-Balkar Republic, there is a deterioration in the sanitary and hygienic condition of soil and water bodies due to parasitic infestations The research was conducted in the period from 2020 to 2023. Indices of sanitary contamination of water with eggs of trematodes, cestodes and nematodes in 9 tributaries of the Baksan River, as well as soil contamination with helminth eggs in the territories of 9 objects of the resort-recreational complex were determined using standard methods according to MU ¹1440–76. 1000 water samples and 700 soil samples were analyzed. The analysis showed the level of sanitary contamination of the Baksan River water and soil with parasite eggs, posing a threat to humans and animals. Soil samples of the Baksan River tributaries were contaminated by 45–100 %, and water samples by 59.4–100 %, which indicates the potential danger of infestations. On the territories of the resort and recreational complex, sanitary contamination of soil with parasite eggs was minimal. For the first time ecologically grounded researches were carried out and indices of sanitary pollution of water by eggs of trematodes, cestodes and nematodes in 9 tributaries of the Baksan river, and also pollution of soil by eggs of helminths on territories of 9 objects of resort-recreational complex were determined. It has been established that the level of sanitary pollution of soil and water samples is characterized by annual growth of the index of contamination of these objects with helminth eggs in all tributaries (Adyl-Su, Irik; Kyrtyk, Adyr-Su, Tyutyu-Su, Kamyk-Su, Gerkhozhan-Su, Gizhgit, Kestanty). Within the Kabardino-Balkar Republic, the infestation of soil with trematode eggs is 45–100 %; with cestode eggs 68–100 %; with nematode eggs 100 % and water samples, respectively, 59.4–100, 68.0–100 and 100 %.

Environmental risk assessment for sustainable industrial urban development: The case of northern industrial zone of Pavlodar, Kazakhstan.

This study assesses heavy metal (HM) contamination in soils of an urban industrial zone using statistical and spatial analysis methods. Concentrations of 12 key HMs, including Zn, Pb, Cu, and Ni, were measured using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), with values exceeding background levels several times in certain areas. Pollution indices such as the Pollution Load Index (PLI) and Total Pollution Indicator (Zc) revealed moderate to high contamination levels, with PLI values ranging from 1.05 to 3.38 and Zc values between 0.67 and 51.34. Health risk assessments indicated that the hazard quotients (HQ) exceeded safe thresholds in hotspots, highlighting potential risks. Spatial distribution maps identified industrial activities as the primary source of contamination. Specifically, according to the PLI, approximately 93.757% of the studied area is classified as moderately contaminated, while 0.702% is considered significantly contaminated. These findings provide a baseline for monitoring and mitigating soil pollution in industrial regions while offering insights for sustainable land management.

Evaluation of heavy metal contamination and health risk analysis in landfill and agricultural soils

This study assesses heavy metal contamination levels and health risks for residents living near the Bang Ban landfill and surrounding agricultural areas. A microwave digestion extraction method, an analysis through inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy, and health risk assessments for heavy metals, including cadmium, copper, manganese, nickel, lead, and zinc, were conducted in accordance with United States Environmental Protection Agency standards. Results indicated that cadmium levels in agricultural soil, as well as copper and nickel levels in landfill areas, exceeded the established standards. The sources of heavy metal contamination in the study area were primarily attributed to leachate from landfills and the application of chemicals in agricultural practices. While the health risks associated with heavy metal exposure leading to non-cancer-related diseases, as calculated through the Hazard Index, were within acceptable limits, the assessment of total carcinogenic risk indicated a potential risk.

Ecotoxicological investigation of arsenic contamination within the water-soil-fruit-human continuum.

Arsenic (As) contamination of water, soil, and plants has become a global critical concern owing to its ecological consequences and human health risks. This study investigated As contamination in soil-irrigation water-fruit plant systems from previously unexplored fruit orchards in Vehari District, Pakistan. A total of 193 samples, comprising irrigation water, soil, and plants, were collected from three tehsils of district Vehari: Mailsi, Vehari, and Burewala. Results showed As concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 69.9µg/L (mean: 16.2µg/L) in water, 0.1-83.6µg/L (mean: 44.6µg/L) in soil, and 0-50.6µg/L (mean: 9.18µg/L) in plants. Notably, the world of water, 91.6% of soil, 28.3% of plant leaves, and 15.28% of fruit samples exceeded the permissible limit of 10µg/L set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Moreover, 11.6% of irrigation water, 45% of soil, and 1.67% of plant leaf samples surpassed the hazardous threshold of 50µg/L. To evaluate health risks, target hazard quotients, estimated daily intake, and cancer risk values for As were calculated as 1.54E-03, 4.63E-04, and 6.94E-07, respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed a strong correlation among water quality parameters including As carbonate (CO₃2-), bicarbonate (HCO₃-), and pH, which significantly influenced As uptake by plants. A triangular heatmap indicated associations of water and soil As with pH, CO₃2- (r2: 0.08, 0.17, 0.46), and plant As (r2: -0.04), supporting the concept of reduced As absorption in high-carbonate soils. This study underscores widespread As contamination in groundwater, soil, and vegetation in Vehari District, Pakistan. The findings highlight the urgent need to improve irrigation water quality or implement systematic evaluations to mitigate risks to human health.

The First Inventory of Sardinian Mining Vascular Flora

Mining activities and associated waste materials pose significant environmental challenges, including soil, water, and air contamination, along with health risks to nearby populations. Despite the harsh conditions of metal-enriched soils and nutrient-poor substrates, certain plants known as metallophytes thrive in these environments. This study examined the vascular flora of Sardinia’s abandoned mining sites, with a focus on identifying metallophytes and their potential role in phytoremediation. A comprehensive floristic checklist was compiled using literature, field surveys, and herbarium samples. Of the 652 taxa identified, 49% were metallophytes, with the majority categorized as facultative species. Notably, 27% of metallophytes were identified as suitable for phytostabilization, while 20% showed potential for phytoextraction. This study also highlighted the presence of endemic and endangered species, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts. The findings suggest that native metallophytes could play a key role in the ecological restoration of mining sites, though careful consideration of invasive species is necessary to avoid ecological disruption. This research provides valuable insights into the biodiversity of Sardinian mining sites and the potential for sustainable remediation strategies using native plants.

Organic matter and microplastics nexus: A comprehensive understanding of the synergistic impact on soil health.

Organic matter and microplastics nexus: A comprehensive understanding of the synergistic impact on soil health.

Modeling Hydrocarbon Plume Dynamics in Shallow Groundwater of the Rey Industrial Area, Iran: Implications for Remediation Planning

The rapid expansion of the petrochemical industry has led to significant environmental issues, including groundwater and soil contamination from hydrocarbon spills. This study investigates the movement and dispersion of hydrocarbon contaminants in the Rey industrial area in Tehran (Iran) using a two-dimensional finite element model. The results indicate that the oil plume exhibits slow migration, primarily due to low soil permeability and high hydrocarbon viscosity, leading to localized contamination. High-density pollution zones, such as TORC and REY7, are characterized by persistent hydrocarbon accumulation with minimal lateral migration. The findings emphasize the limited effectiveness of natural attenuation alone, highlighting the need for targeted remediation measures in high-density zones to accelerate contamination reduction. This study provides insights into the dynamics of hydrocarbon pollution and supports the development of effective remediation strategies.

A Review on Nanotechnology in Soil Science: Recent Advances in Soil Remediation, Fertilization and Carbon Sequestration

Nanotechnology has emerged as a transformative approach for improving soil health and agricultural productivity through its applications in soil remediation, fertilization, and carbon sequestration. In soil science, nanotechnology involves the use of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) such as nanoparticles, nanofibers, nano clays, and carbon-based nanomaterials to address challenges related to soil contamination, nutrient management, and carbon sequestration. Recent advancements in nanotechnology-based soil management, focusing on the role of nanomaterials such as nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI), biochar, graphene oxide, nano clays, and metal oxide nanoparticles. Soil remediation using nanomaterials demonstrates high efficiency in removing heavy metals, organic pollutants, and pathogens through adsorption, catalytic degradation, and redox reactions, achieving contaminant removal rates exceeding 90%. Nano fertilizers enhance nutrient use efficiency by 30-40%, promoting crop productivity and minimizing nutrient losses. Carbon sequestration efforts using biochar and graphene oxide have been shown to increase soil organic carbon storage by 15-40% through improved soil aggregation and organic matter stabilization. Despite promising results, challenges related to potential toxicity, long-term stability, scalability, and inconsistent regulatory frameworks persist. Addressing these concerns requires the development of eco-friendly nanomaterials, standardized testing protocols, and comprehensive risk assessments. Integrating nanotechnology with precision agriculture, digital farming, and biotechnology offers opportunities for synergistic effects that enhance soil health and agricultural sustainability. Collaborative efforts involving researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders are essential for advancing nanotechnology-based solutions to address global challenges related to soil degradation, food security, and climate change mitigation. Continued research and international cooperation will be important in optimizing the safe and effective use of nanotechnology in soil science.

Sorption of Sulfonamide Antibiotics in Peat Soils With Different Properties

ABSTRACTBackgroundSulfonamide antibiotics have been discovered as emerging pharmaceutical pollutants worldwide and are only poorly removed in wastewater treatment. At the landscape level, peat soils are significant water collectors and, thus, are sinks for organic pollutants. However, the fate of pharmaceutically active contaminants in peat soil is, as yet, largely unclear.AimFactors regulating sorption as a dominant process that influences the filtering and buffering of the sulfonamides sulfadiazine (SDZ) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) in different peat soils were investigated.MethodsThe sorption of SDZ and SMX was investigated in batch sorption experiments using peat soils with different physicochemical properties and under different land use, including sustainable wet peatland cultivation (paludiculture).ResultsSorption Kd values ranged from 21.39 to 102.8 mL g−1 for SDZ and 11.23 to 107.3 mL g−1 for SMX. Soil pH, organic carbon content, and C/N ratios were significantly correlated to sorption of the sulfonamides. Non‐linear regression analyses showed that the Freundlich isotherm model was generally best suited to describe sorption of both sulfonamides (0.54 ≤ R ≤ 0.98). Freundlich n values were generally different from 1 for both sulfonamides, indicating co‐mechanistic sorption as opposed to partitioning alone. A quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR) constructed to predict sorption Kd values showed a good cross‐validated performance (R2adj = 0.79, root mean squared error [RMSE] = 8.71).ConclusionsThe sorptive capacities of peat soils for SDZ and SMX antibiotics are higher than those of many terrestrial soils. The quantity and stoichiometric properties of the organic matter fraction, as well as the pH conditions, significantly affect the ability of the soils to immobilize these antibiotics.

Challenges and Strategies for the Sustainable Environmental Management of Phosphogypsum

Phosphogypsum, a byproduct of phosphate fertilizer production, poses significant environmental challenges due to its large volume, hazardous composition, and radioactivity. Conventional disposal methods, such as stockpiling and landfilling, contribute to soil and water contamination and present risks to human health. This article explores the potential of integrating phosphogypsum into a circular economy framework, focusing on reducing environmental impacts and extracting value from this industrial waste. A detailed assessment of phosphogypsum’s chemical composition, including trace metals and radionuclides, is essential for effective management. This review paper examines safe handling, storage, and disposal strategies to minimize environmental risks. Additionally, innovative reuse applications are investigated, such as incorporating phosphogypsum into construction materials like cement, plasterboard, and concrete and its use in agriculture as a soil amendment or for land reclamation. The recovery of critical elements, particularly rare earth elements (REEs), highlights its potential to reduce waste and contribute to meeting the growing demand for strategic resources. Despite its promise, challenges remain, including chemical variability and the presence of radioactive components. This article identifies the technological and regulatory steps required to enable safe, large-scale reuse of phosphogypsum, emphasizing its role in advancing sustainable resource management within a circular economy.

Modeling PFAS Sorption in Soils Using Machine Learning.

In this study, we introduce PFASorptionML, a novel machine learning (ML) tool developed to predict solid-liquid distribution coefficients (Kd) for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in soils. Leveraging a data set of 1,274 Kd entries for PFAS in soils and sediments, including compounds such as trifluoroacetate, cationic, and zwitterionic PFAS, and neutral fluorotelomer alcohols, the model incorporates PFAS-specific properties such as molecular weight, hydrophobicity, and pKa, alongside soil characteristics like pH, texture, organic carbon content, and cation exchange capacity. Sensitivity analysis reveals that molecular weight, hydrophobicity, and organic carbon content are the most significant factors influencing sorption behavior, while charge density and mineral soil fraction have comparatively minor effects. The model demonstrates high predictive performance, with RPD values exceeding 3.16 across validation data sets, outperforming existing tools in accuracy and scope. Notably, PFAS chain length and functional group variability significantly influence Kd, with longer chain lengths and higher hydrophobicity positively correlating with Kd. By integrating location-specific soil repository data, the model enables the generation of spatial Kd maps for selected PFAS species. These capabilities are implemented in the online platform PFASorptionML, providing researchers and practitioners with a valuable resource for conducting environmental risk assessments of PFAS contamination in soils.

Design, Fabrication and Validation of Chemical Sensors for Detecting Hydrocarbons to Facilitate Oil Spillage Remediation

To address the environmental hazards posed by oil spills and the limitations of conventional hydrocarbon monitoring techniques, a cost-effective and user-friendly gas sensor system was developed for the real-time detection and quantification of hydrocarbon contaminants in soil. This system utilizes carbon black (CB)-filled poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) nanocomposites to create chemoresistive sensors. The CB-PMMA and CB-PVC composites were synthesized and deposited as thin films onto interdigitated electrodes, with their morphologies characterized using scanning electron microscopy. The composites, optimized at a composition of 10% w/w CB and 90% w/w polymer, exhibited a sensitive response to hydrocarbon vapors across a tested range from C20 (99 ppmV) to C8 (8750 ppmV). The sensor’s response mechanism is primarily attributed to the swelling-induced resistance change of the amorphous polymer matrix in hydrocarbon vapors. These findings demonstrate the potential use of CB–polymer composites as field-deployable gas sensors, providing a rapid and efficient alternative to traditional gas chromatography methods for monitoring soil remediation efforts and mitigating the environmental impact of oil contamination.

Treatment of Kitechen Waste Water by Phytoremediation Method using Canna Indica Plant and Colocasia Esculenta Plant

Household wastewater, which comes from activities like washing dishes, cleaning vegetables, and food preparation, is a leading part of household greywater. It generally has high concentrations of organic matter, oils and greases, suspended solids, food solids, detergents, and nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. When released without treatment, such wastewater can cause ecological pollution, bad odors, clogged drains, and soil and water body contamination. It also favors the development of pathogenic microorganisms, which is a very dangerous threat to public health. In contrast to sewage, kitchen wastewater tends to be neglected in conventional wastewater treatment systems, particularly in rural and semi-urban communities. Nevertheless, owing to its high pollutant load, it needs to be treated before discharge into the environment or reuse. Proper treatment can ease the load on municipal systems, save water by safe reuse in gardening or irrigation, and ensure the ecological balance of surrounding water bodies This study examines the efficiency of phytoremediation by Canna indica and Colocasia esculenta in the treatment of kitchen wastewater, a major cause of domestic water pollution. The research aims to assess the potential of these plants to lower important water quality indicators like Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and nutrient levels such as nitrates and phosphates. Experimental systems were set up using horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands, each of which was planted with Canna indica, Colocasia esculenta, or left unplanted as a control. Kitchen wastewater was continuously fed to each system for a set period, and samples were periodically analyzed to determine the treatment efficiency. The findings proved that both Canna indica and Colocasia esculenta greatly enhanced the quality of kitchen wastewater. Canna indica was more efficient in COD and BOD removal, whereas Colocasia esculenta was more efficient in nutrient removal, especially in phosphate reduction. In general, the planted systems performed better than the unplanted control in all the parameters measured, validating the capability of these plant species in organic and nutrient-rich domestic wastewater treatment. Their strong growth and versatility also point to their viability for application in low-maintenance, sustainable water treatment systems. The research finds that phytoremediation with Canna indica and Colocasia esculenta is an effective, low-cost, and environmentally friendly approach for the treatment of kitchen wastewater. These results recommend the incorporation of constructed wetland systems into domestic and community-level wastewater management schemes. Future research could investigate long-term performance, seasonal fluctuations, and the mixture of these plant species to further improve treatment results.

Irregular Burial Practices in Amazon as a Critical One Health Challenge

Abstract The case study investigates irregular burial practices in Careiro da Várzea, Brazil, a municipality in the Amazon, focusing on the legal, environmental, and health challenges involved. Although Brazilian law mandates burials in official cemeteries with proper documentation, weak enforcement, limited municipal resources, and the absence of local regulations have left communities with few viable options. As a result, informal cemeteries have proliferated, probably aligning with cultural preferences for burial sites close to home. The research highlights how the municipality’s flood-prone landscape exacerbates risks, as seasonal inundation can disperse contaminants from decomposing bodies into water sources, posing severe and widespread health hazards. A multidisciplinary approach was adopted. Researchers used georeferencing to map burial sites and conducted field observations to (preliminarily) assess environmental risks, including potential soil and water contamination. Epidemiological data were analyzed to explore potential links between burial practices and patterns of waterborne diseases in the surrounding communities. Difficulties with formal death registration services were identified as a key factor contributing to unreported deaths, complicating public health planning. The findings reveal that irregular burial practices not only pose significant environmental risks but also create health data gaps that hinder effective disease surveillance and resource allocation. The study recommends strengthening local regulations and capacity, improving burial infrastructure, ensuring better coordination between environmental and health authorities, and fostering community engagement in planning for actions while considering the community’s needs and constraints. Information © The Authors 2025

Assessment of ecological and human health risks of heavy metals in soils and Polygonatum sibiricum plants from various cultivation areas in China.

In this study, we collected 528 samples from 7 important Polygonatum sibiricum (P. sibiricum) planting areas in China. The P. sibiricum samples were classified into P. sibiricum Red., P. cyrtonema Hua. and P. kiugianum Col.et Hemsl. The content of the Cu, As, Zn, Cd, Pb, and Cr in P. sibiricum and soil were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and the ecological and health risks were evaluated. The results showed that addition to Cu, the soil exhibits varying degrees of excessive pollution from Zn, As, Pb, Cd, and Cr exceeding permissible levels (GB15618 - 2018, Soil environmental quality-Risk control standard for soil contamination of agricultural land in China). Among them, 31.56% Zn, 22.43% As, and 22.05% Cd in soil exceeded the GB 15618 - 2018 standard. Additionally, three types of P. sibiricum soil have risks, with the risk level being P. cyrtonema Hua. > P. kiugianum Col.et Hemsl. > P. sibiricum Red. It was worth noting that the practice of artificial cultivation management may reduce the amount of As, Cd, and Cr in the soil while increasing the amount of Zn. The order of P. sibiricum bioaccumulating ability in different heavy metals was: Cd > Zn > Cu > Cr > As > Pb, and it had good tolerance to As, Pb, and Cr. In addition, the chronic daily intake, hazard quotient and hazard indexes indicate that the current Cu, Hg, As, Cd and Pb contents of P. sibiricum in China do not pose a health risk to humans. In summary, the impact of Cd in P. sibiricum should be given attention.

The problematic of soil contamination by industries in a protected area in Portugal

Understanding the environmental legacy surrounding abandoned industrial sites, once powered by fossil fuels and operated in times of less stringent environmental regulations, is crucial today. This issue is especially pertinent in regions that have since become protected areas. Cabo Mondego, recognized internationally for its geological diversity, designated as a National Monument of Portugal, and included in the Atlantic Geopark project, represents such a region due to its history of potentially degrading activities associated with coal mining and an industrial complex focused on cement and lime production. To ensure the sustainable use of this protected area, it is essential to assess soil health. In this study, fifty soil samples were collected from areas bordering the decommissioned industrial complex and coal mining remnants. The research detected contaminants, their geochemical associations, and potential sources. The evaluation included comparisons with reference values, assessment of the contamination severity, multivariate data analysis, and spatial distribution analysis. Three primary anthropogenic sources of soil contamination were identified: (1) atmospheric emissions from the industrial complex, primarily linked to As and Se contamination, with additional samples showing contamination by Ni, V, and Cr; (2) localized coal mining waste disposal, associated with As, Mo, and Se contamination; and (3) isolated fuel contamination, indicated by elevated Pb levels. Additionally, the study suggests that geogenic sources contribute to the elevated As and U levels in soils with specific geological characteristics. This characterization of potential toxic contaminants in Cabo Mondego enhances the understanding of the region's vulnerabilities and highlights the importance of its protection.

Assessment of Soil Contamination by Potentially Toxic Elements Around Fertilizer Factory: An Ecological and Health Risks in Bandırma, NW Turkiye

Soil pollution is a major global concern, with a worrisome escalation in its prevalence being observed on a daily basis. This phenomenon is influenced by a range of factors, including geogenic and anthropogenic processes. The release of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) from fertilizer factories, which are anthropogenic sources, has the potential to cause soil pollution in the surrounding area. The present study investigates the physicochemical properties, PTEs concentrations, contamination characteristics, potential sources, and human health risks of soil samples collected from the vicinity of the Bandırma fertiliser factory. The soil samples exhibited a range of textures, including sandy clay loam, sandy loam, clay loam, loam, and loamy sand. The mean pH, electrical conductivity (EC), lime, and organic matter contents of the soil samples were found to be 6.89, 0.31 dSm−1, 4.82%, and 5.08%, respectively. Furthermore, the concentrations of the PTEs (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn heavy metals) analysed in the soil samples were determined to be between 0.02 and 0.99 mg kg−1, 0.55 and 24.74 mg kg−1, and 0.31 and 34 mg kg−1, respectively. 66 mg kg−1, 4.48 to 423.91 mg kg−1, 2638.61 to 61801.18 mg kg−1, 86.30 to 772.89 mg kg−1, 1.45 to 118.43 mg kg−1, 3.76 to 53.31 mg kg−1, 10.30 to 159.33 mg kg−1, respectively. The enrichment factor indicated that over half of the soils exhibited contamination with Cd and Cu, attributable to industrial activities and the use of agrochemicals. In a similar way, the geo-accumulation index demonstrated that 90.63% of the soils were contaminated with Cu, with all samples also exhibiting contamination with Mn and Zn, and 59.37% with Ni. The ecological risk factor further delineated 9.37% of the soils as exhibiting a considerable degree of risk with regard to Cd, while 3.12% were deemed to present a notable risk with respect to Cu. Of the nine PTEs present in the soil, eight (Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) were of natural origin, while Cu was of mixed origin. The THI (total hazard index) values were found to be less than 1 for both children and adults. This finding indicates that there is an absence of non-carcinogenic health risks for both children and adult residents. In addition, the total carcinogenic risk (TCR) values indicated that, with the exception of Cr, there were no carcinogenic risks for children or adults.

Wildfires under changing climate, and their environmental and health impacts

Abstract Purpose Extreme weather events including drought, flooding, and wildfires resulting from climate change can impact ecosystems. Various toxic substances are emitted during wildfires, such as particulate matter and volatile organic compounds, as the frequency and intensity of wildfires rise with climate change. This review aims to focus on the effects of wildfires on environmental health covering contaminants in soil, aquatic and atmospheric environment. Materials and methods A thorough literature search was conducted in Web of Science Core Collections with the following keywords: “wildfire” OR “volatile organic compounds” OR “pollution” OR “contamination” OR “terrestrial pollution” OR “aquatic pollution” OR “atmospheric pollution”. PRISMA flow chart was used to highlight the review's content and provide a more thorough synthesis of relevant studies. Results and discussion Various studies have shown how wildfire emissions affect the public health, although handful information available regarding the environmental health impacts of smoke emissions during wildfires. The post-wildfire trace elemental concentrations and speciation are notably linked to plant species, geology, and topography. Recent studies found increased levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), suspended solids, and water turbidity in lakes within wildfire-burnt watersheds. The response of individual ecosystems to wildfire depends on proximity to the fire, fire characteristics, fuel fee material burned, the effect of fundamental drivers of water quality. Conclusions The findings of this review will encourage and strengthen collaboration between the scientific community and regulatory agencies to better understand how erratic weather events, such as wildfires, may affect the health of people and animals. Graphical Abstract