Mean concentrations of cadmium (Cd) in the soil samples adjacent to the
site were eight times higher than those prescribed by the Dutch and Taiwanese
authorities (5 ppm). High concentrations were found in both surface and subsurface
soil levels. Waithaka soil samples had copper (Cu) concentrations that were
below the detection limit of 15 ppm (EDXRF System) while concentrations from
the Dandora dumping site greatly exceeded the prescribed standard values as well
as the natural range and registered between 7 and 80 ppm. Mean chromium (Cr)
concentrations were slightly above the critical standard soil levels hence had no
major negative impact on the environment. Zinc (Zn) concentrations from Dandora
soils were four times greater than those from Waithaka and these values exceeded
the recommended standard levels as well.