INTRODUCTION
Mining activities create a potential risk to the environment because of the release of heavy metals. When mine wastes (waste rock dumps, tailings and slags) are disposed of without any environmental control, they may cause soil and groundwater contamination. The type of contaminants and their concentration in the environment depend on their initial concentration in the mining areas, the nature of the mineral and the local soil and other factors including water pH. This environmental problem, and its effect on human health, is of concern. Heavy metals, such as zinc (Zn), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd), are highly persistent in soil, with residence times of thousands of years. Excessive accumulation of heavy metals can cause serious effects on the soil, ecosystem functions and is a health risk to animals and human beings. Among such heavy metals, Pb is
INTRODUCTION
Mining activities create a potential risk to the environment because of the release of heavy metals. When mine wastes (waste rock dumps, tailings and slags) are disposed of without any environmental control, they may cause soil and groundwater contamination. The type of contaminants and their concentration in the environment depend on their initial concentration in the mining areas, the nature of the mineral and the local soil and other factors including water pH. This environmental problem, and its effect on human health, is of concern. Heavy metals, such as zinc (Zn), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd), are highly persistent in soil, with residence times of thousands of years. Excessive accumulation of heavy metals can cause serious effects on the soil, ecosystem functions and is a health risk to animals and human beings. Among such heavy metals, Pb is
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