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Arsenic in Mining Areas: Environmental Contamination Routes
Márcia Cristina da Silva Faria1, Rodrigo de Carvalho Hott1, Maicon Junior Dos Santos1
1Instituto de Ciência, Engenharia e Tecnologia (ICET), Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri (UFVJM), Teófilo Otoni 39803-371, MG, Brazil.
Summary
Mining activities in Brazil release toxic arsenic into the environment. This study found high arsenic levels in water, soil, and food, posing a significant health risk to the local population.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Geochemistry
Background:
- Anthropogenic activities, including mining, agriculture, and industry, are increasing the emission and accumulation of toxic elements like arsenic.
- Gold mining operations in Paracatu, Brazil, have led to environmental arsenic contamination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate arsenic contamination routes and effects in environmental compartments (air, water, soil) and organisms (fish, vegetables) near mining regions.
- To assess the trophic transfer of arsenic for population risk evaluation.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of arsenic levels in water, soil, fish, and vegetable samples from mining-impacted areas.
- Assessment of seasonal variations and proximity to the gold mine influencing arsenic concentrations.
Main Results:
- High arsenic concentrations detected in Rico stream waters (4.05–72.4 µg/L) and soil (up to 1.668 mg kg-1).
- Arsenic levels in biological samples exceeded permissible limits, indicating environmental transfer.
- Seasonal variations and proximity to the mine significantly influenced arsenic levels in soil.
Conclusions:
- Arsenic contamination from mining poses a significant risk to the exposed population through various environmental pathways.
- Environmental monitoring is crucial for diagnosing contamination and informing risk assessments and interventions.
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