Impact of mining on soil pollution by metals

Figure 1. Considerations on different sources of soil pollution by metals

Heavy metal pollution in agricultural soils is becoming an increasing environmental concern due to rapid economic development. Heavy metals, characterized by their high persistence and toxicity, can transport into the crops and vegetables, and pose potential risks to human health (Figure 1).

The mining industry is recognized as a significant contributor to elevated concentrations of toxic elements in the environment, and numerous researchers have reported heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils surrounding mining areas. For these reasons, the impacts of existing mining sites (quarries) in the upper Koprzywianka basin are under investigation within our PHISHES project. At this test site, we plan to examine the possibilities of metals transport to the river from open mines and exploitation deposits, also landfills in their vicinity.

Moreover, the precipitation has been identified as the most important driving force for the migration of heavy metals from mining sites to the surrounding environment. Under rainfall conditions, the abandoned tailings produced by mining activities can continuously release heavy metals into surrounding water, soil and sediment.

Studies have confirmed that soils in mining area, especially those close to tailings, had high concentrations of heavy metals exceeding the background values or risk screening levels. Both tailings and contaminated soils in the former mining areas could be potential long-term sources of heavy metals. 

Figure 3. Excavation and tailings