10.8
CiteScore
 
5.3
Impact Factor
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Search in posts
Search in pages
Filter by Categories
Corrigendum
Current Issue
Editorial
Erratum
Full Length Article
Full lenth article
Original Article
Research article
Retraction notice
Review
Review Article
SPECIAL ISSUE: ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY
10.8
CiteScore
5.3
Impact Factor
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Search in posts
Search in pages
Filter by Categories
Corrigendum
Current Issue
Editorial
Erratum
Full Length Article
Full lenth article
Original Article
Research article
Retraction notice
Review
Review Article
SPECIAL ISSUE: ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY
View/Download PDF

Translate this page into:

Review article
06 2024
:17;
105777
doi:
10.1016/j.arabjc.2024.105777

Comprehensive analysis of heavy metal soil contamination in mining Environments: Impacts, monitoring Techniques, and remediation strategies

Department of Pharmaceutical Control, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
Department of Chemical Engineering, Mahshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mahshahr, Iran
Department of Chemistry, Technical and Vocational University, Tehran, Iran
Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Semnan, Semnan, Iran
Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Shahid Madani University, Azarbaijan, Iran
Department of Chemical Engineering, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran

⁎Corresponding authors. ss.hedayatikhah69@yahoo.com (Soheila Hedayatikhah), aliaghababai@yahoo.com (Ali Aghababai Beni)

Disclaimer:
This article was originally published by Elsevier and was migrated to Scientific Scholar after the change of Publisher.

Abstract

Soil contamination by lead, zinc, iron, manganese, and copper is a widespread environmental issue associated with the mining industry. Primary sources include mining activities, production and processing operations, waste disposal and management practices, and atmospheric sediments. Soil contamination and degradation, water pollution impacting aquatic ecosystems, plant absorption leading to agricultural product contamination, health risks associated with exposure to lead, zinc, iron, manganese, and copper, along with effects on fauna and biodiversity, constitute the primary environmental and health impacts of contamination.

In this study, diverse sampling and analysis methods, geographic information systems, and remote sensing techniques are investigated for monitoring and assessing soil contamination with these metals. Soil modification techniques, phytoremediation, and other strategies for reduction and modification are considered among the most crucial, alongside health protection and risk management strategies. Finally, the article explores innovative methods and solutions for mineral waste management and remediation, the application of green chemistry and sustainable practices in the mining industry, and the utilization of artificial intelligence for controlling heavy metal ion pollution.

Keywords

Mining industry
Soil contamination
Health effects
Monitoring
Pollution control
Sustainable practices
1

1 Introduction

The mining industry, serving as a linchpin for global economic advancement, stands at the nexus of providing indispensable raw materials across diverse sectors (Soltani et al., 2017). However, the ramifications of mining activities on the environment, particularly in the context of soil contamination, have emerged as a critical and pressing environmental concern (Mir et al., 2020).

The contamination of soil with these heavy metal ions introduces significant environmental hazards, ranging from soil and water pollution to the disruption of ecosystems and the release of potentially deleterious substances into the environment (Li et al., 2023). The mining processes associated with copper, zinc, lead, manganese, and iron, extensively utilized in industrial applications, have been identified as primary contributors to soil contamination (Zheng et al., 2021). Systematically elevated levels of these heavy metals have consistently surfaced in soil samples collected from mining sites, necessitating a thorough investigation into their intricate environmental impacts (Wuana and Okieimen, 2011). For example, Umeobi et al. (Umeobi et al., 2024) investigated the distribution of elements and potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in soil profiles in the southeastern region of Nigeria was investigated. The results indicated that soils affected by mining activities in Ameka were heavily contaminated, whereas soils unaffected by mining activities in Ameka were moderately contaminated. Similarly, soils in Nkalagu, both affected and unaffected by mining activities, were also moderately contaminated.

The contamination of soil with these heavy metal ions not only poses significant environmental hazards on land but also extends its impact to the surrounding air and water ecosystems. The mining processes associated with copper, zinc, lead, manganese, and iron, are widely employed in industrial applications, potentially leading to air pollution. Additionally, the leaching of heavy metals into water sources exacerbates water pollution concerns, posing threats to aquatic life and potentially impacting human health (Aubineau et al., 2022).

Investigations demonstrate that the microbial-catalyzed electron transfer process in fluvo-aquic soils exhibits higher efficiency in removing Cr(VI) compared to red soils. Red soils are rich in electron acceptors such as Fe(III), which compete with Cr(VI) in the reduction process. Moreover, the high clay content in red soils leads to strong adsorption of Cr(VI), thereby restricting its interaction with electron acceptors. Additionally, assessments reveal that paddy soils outperform other soil types, such as black and red soils, in energy production and copper removal. Therefore, it is recommended that organically-mediated electron transfer processes have greater capability in removing heavy metals in fluvo-aquic and paddy soils (Kou et al., 2024).

To assess the historical and current status of contaminated areas, a strong understanding of heavy metals or soil mineralogy is necessary (Adnan et al., 2024). Heavy metals exist in various forms including suspended particles, dissolved form, or as minerals in the environment, each with different geochemical and mineralogical backgrounds (Mishra et al., 2023). Previous research has shown that the solubility of trace metals in soil samples is influenced by the primary chemistry and mineralogy of the soil (Piatak et al., 2004). Therefore, even in complex conditions where multiple industries are present nearby, mineralogy of input particles can be directly used for identifying the sources of heavy metal inputs (Parvin et al., 2022). Additionally, it should be noted that the availability of heavy metals such as sodium, lead, and zinc is directly influenced by the minerals present in the soil as well as other variables like pH (Wu et al., 2020).

The geological history of heavy metals in many cities indicates a relatively low concentration; However, human activities have significantly influenced the alteration of natural biogeochemical cycles (Baieta et al., 2023). Throughout different historical periods, primary sources of atmospheric lead emissions have included coal combustion, leaded gasoline, and non-ferrous smelting, the transportation sector, particularly automotive transport, contributes to air and soil pollution by emitting heavy metals such as chromium, copper, lead, cadmium, zinc, and others (Karn et al., 2021). Agricultural areas near mines and aluminum smelters have been subject to contamination, with mining operations, smelting processes, and agricultural practices being the primary sources of zinc, antimony, lead, and arsenic in soils (Bakshi et al., 2018). Agricultural activities have been identified as the main contributors to cadmium and copper in soils (Adnan et al., 2022; Shi et al., 2023). Additionally, elevated concentrations of heavy metals have been observed in soils surrounding various smelting facilities. Increased levels of heavy metals in rivers result from the discharge of industrial and urban waste, leading to the accumulation of heavy metals in sedimentary reservoirs (Kinnunen and Hedrich, 2023).

Recognizing the comprehensive nature of these environmental risks, this review aims to explore innovative and efficacious remediation techniques designed not only to ameliorate soil quality but also to mitigate the far-reaching consequences on air and water quality. By synthesizing the latest research findings and technological advancements, this review aspires to furnish a panoramic perspective on the environmental hazards posed by soil contamination around mining industry plants, emphasizing the interconnectedness of land, air, and water ecosystems. Furthermore, it seeks to spotlight cutting-edge remediation techniques that can serve as transformative measures in mitigating the ecological footprint of mining activities, propelling the industry towards enhanced environmental sustainability.

2

2 Sources and causes of heavy metal ion pollution

2.1

2.1 Mining activities and mineral exploitation

Mining operations play a pivotal role in releasing various heavy metals into the environment, significantly contributing to lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper contamination (Hu et al., 2020). The extraction of minerals through mining processes is a primary source of these contaminants, leading to widespread ecological and human health concerns (Setia et al., 2023).

In some cases, mining activities not only lead to contamination with primary mining elements but also release certain hazardous elements. For example, in a study conducted by Wang et al. (Wang et al., 2023), the distribution characteristics of natural radionuclides in surface soils and river sediments influenced by lead–zinc mining activities were investigated. The results of this study indicated that the activity concentrations of 238U, 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K were confined to specific ranges and decreased with distance from the mining areas. Radiological hazard indices also showed that the highest values were observed in the mining areas and downstream, particularly in proximity to the mining site, but these values still remained below threshold levels.

Li et al. (Li et al., 2024) investigated the multipath diffusion process and spatial accumulation simulation of cadmium (Cd) in lead–zinc mining areas. Their findings revealed that Cd in the topsoil of Pb-Zn mining areas exhibits a decreasing trend with increasing distance from the pollution source, with the diffusion process following a quadratic inverse proportional relationship within the watershed. Their study highlighted the significant contributions of rainfall runoff and atmospheric sedimentation to Cd dispersion, with runoff diffusion exceeding 80 %. Their model showed that rainfall runoff predominantly influences Cd distribution, with a contribution rate ranging from 80.8 % to 100 %. The study underscores the importance of considering heavy metal forms in soil and vertical infiltration pathways induced by rainfall for enhancing the precision of pollution diffusion and accumulation simulation around lead–zinc mines.

Manganese contamination is closely associated with mining activities focused on manganese-rich deposits. The weathering of exposed ores and subsequent leaching contribute to the dispersion of manganese into nearby soils and water sources. Improper waste disposal practices, such as uncontrolled tailings release, intensify the environmental burden of manganese contamination (Pinto et al., 2011). Dey et al. (Dey et al., 2023) highlighted that the accumulation of environmental pollutants is attributed to negligence and irresponsible human behavior. They stressed the importance of effectively managing the industrial reprocessing of Mn pollutants, which encompasses factors such as transportation, recycling techniques, and resource utilization, in an environmentally sustainable manner to mitigate further contamination. For instance, prolonged exposure to elevated levels of Mn can result in neurological disorders like manganism, exhibiting symptoms akin to Parkinson's disease. Additionally, the rapid escalation of manganese concentration in the environment, coupled with the overexploitation of natural resources, exacerbates the depletion of these crucial reserves.

Iron contamination primarily results from iron ore extraction and processing. The excavation and transportation of iron ore expose surrounding environments to elevated iron levels. Moreover, the oxidation of iron-containing minerals can lead to the release of soluble iron compounds, influencing water quality and sediment composition (Badmus et al., 2022). Giri et al. (Giri et al., 2023) investigated the spatio-temporal variations of metals in groundwater from an area impacted by iron mining in Jharkhand, India. They aimed to assess the potential risk posed to the local population due to the ingestion of metals through groundwater. The researchers conducted seasonal assessments of metal concentrations and found significant variations both spatially and temporally, with the highest metal concentrations observed during the pre-monsoon season and in areas with active mining activities. Their findings revealed that iron and manganese exceeded drinking water quality standards in approximately 75 % of the samples across all seasons. They attributed the presence of metals in groundwater to both natural geological processes (geogenic sources) and human activities (anthropogenic causes). Principal component analysis was used to identify four factors explaining 68.1 % of the variance in the data, indicating the complex sources of metal contamination. Furthermore, the study revealed that children were more susceptible to non-carcinogenic health risks compared to adults. The Hazard Index for the child population exceeded one (1.16) during the pre-monsoon season, indicating a health risk for vulnerable children.

Zhang et al. (Zhang et al., 2023) reported that different soil types possess varying physical and chemical properties, which directly influence their levels of contamination and permeability to various substances, including heavy metal ions. Acidic soils typically have pH levels below 7, which can increase the solubility of heavy metal ions in the soil, consequently leading to higher levels of contamination. Conversely, alkaline soils have pH levels above 7, which can reduce the solubility of heavy metal ions in the soil. In addition to pH, soil permeability also plays a significant role in heavy metal ion contamination. Soils with specific properties, such as a high clay content, may have lower permeability, resulting in increased accumulation of heavy metal ions in the soil and consequently higher contamination levels.

While mining activities contribute to pollution emissions, they are driven by the worldwide demand for specific metals. Through the analysis of tree rings and variations in chemical elements within them, Zanetta-Colombo et al. (Zanetta-Colombo et al., 2024) revealed that the surge in global copper demand during the 1990 s resulted in a notable rise in the availability of metals and mineral pollutants associated with mining operations in indigenous territories. These findings underscore the potential adverse environmental and societal impacts of heightened mining production rates driven by international demand.

Fig. 1 depicts the intricate connections among various factors that contribute to soil contamination in mining activities. The accumulation of mining waste, including mineral residues and land degradation, stands as a primary contributor to soil contamination (Biamont-Rojas et al., 2023; Orellana Mendoza et al., 2021). Chemicals employed in the extraction process, particularly for lead and zinc minerals, can directly or indirectly interfere with the soil, leading to pollution (Jiang et al., 2022; Karnaeva et al., 2021). Disturbances to the soil during mining operations, such as layer depletion and surface irregularities, contribute to the escalation of soil contamination (Rosas et al., 2007). Waters contaminated during mining processes or mineral extraction can intensify soil contamination upon entering the soil (Liu et al., 2018). In mineral processing industries, the consumption of chemicals and energy, along with waste products, may infiltrate the soil, further contributing to pollution (Ng et al., 2019). Mining activities can induce irregularities in the soil, becoming a source of soil contamination (Feitosa et al., 2021). Impermeability of the soil hinders the infiltration of air and water, leading to the accumulation of pollutants and increased soil contamination (Chen et al., 2007). Airborne pollutants, such as suspended particles and pollutant gases, settling in the soil act as additional sources of soil contamination (Chi et al., 2022; Schmitt et al., 2007). Inefficiencies or violations in waste management practices can result in the accumulation of pollutants in the environment, causing soil contamination (Castro-Bedriñana et al., 2021). Negative effects of mining processes on the environment, including soil quality degradation and the loss of natural habitats, indirectly contribute to soil contamination (Tibane and Mamba, 2022).

Graph depicting the intricate interrelationships between various influential factors contributing to soil contamination in mining operations.
Fig. 1
Graph depicting the intricate interrelationships between various influential factors contributing to soil contamination in mining operations.

Table 1 illustrates the negative impacts of mining activities on the environment and public health in various regions around the world. Upon examining this table, it becomes apparent that mining activities not only affect the health of local populations but also have detrimental effects on the environment and economy. For instance, in the city of Baoji, China, mining activities have led to serious health issues among residents and resulted in reduced agricultural production and property devaluation. Similarly, in Sudbury, Canada, mining activities have adversely affected both human health and the environment, causing problems such as water contamination, decreased plant growth, and undesirable effects on local wildlife. These interpretations demonstrate that mining activities can have significant and negative impacts on both health and the environment, emphasizing the need for more precise management and control of these activities.

Table 1 Impact of mining activities on environment and public health in various.
Country City Source of Pollution Health Impact Effect on Plants Effect on Animals Impact on Economy Reference
China Baoji Mining activities Neurological damage, anemia, kidney damage, reproductive system damage Reduced plant growth, decreased yield Heavy metal accumulation in wildlife Loss of agricultural productivity, decreased property values (Lu et al., 2009; Shen et al., 2023)
India Zawar Mining activities Anemia, neurological damage, developmental delays Reduced plant growth, decreased yield Heavy metal accumulation in wildlife Loss of agricultural productivity, decreased property values (Haldar, 2018; Malik et al., 2023)
Peru La Oroya Smelting activities Respiratory illnesses, neurological damage, developmental delays Reduced plant growth, decreased yield Heavy metal accumulation in wildlife Loss of agricultural productivity, decreased property values (Paredes and Aviles, 2024)
Australia Broken Hill Mining activities Respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, developmental delays Negative impact on native vegetation Contamination of water sources, disruption of ecosystems Economic decline in agriculture and tourism (Yang and Cattle, 2017)
Brazil Itabira Iron ore mining Respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, neurological damage Soil degradation, loss of biodiversity Disruption of local fauna, water contamination Economic downturn due to reduced agricultural output (Holmes et al., 2021; Morozesk et al., 2021)
Canada Sudbury Nickel mining Respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and cancer risks Altered soil composition, reduced vegetation growth Adverse effects on local fauna and aquatic ecosystems Economic challenges due to health costs and environmental remediation (Kellaway et al., 2022; Mudd, 2010)
South Africa Rustenburg Platinum mining Respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular problems, and lung diseases Soil erosion, reduced plant biodiversity Health issues and population decline in wildlife Reduced growth and reproduction in plants (Ololade and Annegarn, 2013)(Cole, 2023)
USA Leadville Mining activities Neurological damage, anemia, kidney damage, reproductive system damage Reduced plant growth, decreased yield | Heavy metal accumulation in wildlife Loss of agricultural productivity, decreased property values (Johnson et al., 2016; Wijesekara et al., 2016)
Russia Norilsk Metal smelting Respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, developmental delays Negative impact on native vegetation Contamination of water sources, disruption of ecosystems Economic decline in agriculture and tourism (Gibson et al., 2023)
Sweden Kiruna Iron ore mining Respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, neurological damage Soil degradation, loss of biodiversity Disruption of local fauna, water contamination Economic downturn due to reduced agricultural output (Alibabaie et al., 2020; Andersson et al., 2022; Yan et al., 2023)
Germany Leipzig Uranium mining Increased risk of lung cancer, kidney damage, developmental issues Soil contamination, reduced plant growth Adverse effects on local fauna and groundwater contamination Economic challenges due to health costs and environmental remediation (Xie et al., 2023)
Japan Ashio Copper mining Respiratory problems, neurological damage, cardiovascular issues Soil and water pollution, negative impact on vegetation Adverse effects on local fauna and aquatic ecosystems Economic decline in agriculture and local industries (Cook et al., 2019; Kitajima, 2018)

Table 2 illustrates the influence of the mine's age on the degree of soil contamination in the surrounding areas across different cities. These findings indicate that the age of the mine plays a crucial role in determining the level of soil contamination. As the mine's age increases, there is a corresponding rise in soil contamination, emphasizing the necessity of implementing proper environmental management practices and protective measures in mining activities.

Table 2 The impact of the mining age on the degree of soil contamination in surrounding areas across various cities.
Mining Type Country Mine Location Age of Mine Heavy Metal Ions Total concentration ( m g k g - 1 ) Reference
Lead-zinc mining China Huize >50 years Lead, Zinc 1230 (Cao et al., 2022; Chen et al., 2023; Zhao et al., 2023)
Iron mining Brazil Carajas >40 years Iron 950 (Cruz et al., 2021; Fabre et al., 2011)
Copper mining Chile Escondida >30 years Copper 800 (Arratia-Solar and Paredes, 2023; Odell, 2021)
Manganese mining South Africa Kalahari >25 years Manganese 720 (Chetty and Gutzmer, 2012; Lukich and Ecker, 2022)
Zinc mining Australia Mount Isa >35 years Zinc 1100 (Mackay et al., 2013; Zheng et al., 2021)
Lead mining USA Leadville >48 years Lead 1050 (Walton-Day and Mills, 2015)
Copper mining Peru Cerro Verde >32 years Copper 870 (Chen et al., 2023; Saenz, 2023)
Iron mining Russia Kursk >38 years Iron 880 (Mazitova et al., 2015; Posukhova and Riakhovskaya, 2008)
Zinc mining Mexico Red Dog >43 years Zinc 1200 (Ebunu et al., 2021; Gutiérrez et al., 2016)
Manganese mining Gabon Moanda >28 years Manganese 680 (Dubois et al., 2017)
Copper mining Zambia Lumwana >34 years Copper 920 (Wambwa et al., 2023)
Lead mining Australia Broken Hill >42 years Lead 990 (Yang and Cattle, 2017)
Iron mining Canada Labrador >37 years Iron 800 (Rodon et al., 2022)
Zinc mining India Rampura Agucha >45 years Zinc 1150 (Haldar, 2018)
Copper mining Mongolia Oyu Tolgoi >29 years Copper 760 (Diakov et al., 2019; Porter, 2016)
Manganese mining Ukraine Nikopol >22 years Manganese 600 (Sasmaz et al., 2020)
Iron mining Sweden Kiruna >41 years Iron 920 (Stihl, 2022)
Zinc mining Kazakhstan Ridder >36 years Zinc 1050 (Ramazanova et al., 2021)
Copper mining Indonesia Grasberg >31 years Copper 940 (Henley et al., 2022)
Lead mining Morocco Sidi Bou Othmane >47 years Lead 1100 (Midhat et al., 2019)

2.2

2.2 Impacts of production and processing activities

The activities of production and processing encompass a wide range of industrial and mining activities that contribute to the production of raw materials and final products used in various industries (Dembele et al., 2022). These activities are categorized into mining and non-mining sectors. In mining activities, extraction and exploitation of mineral resources, including metals, rocks, minerals, and natural fuels such as lead, zinc, iron, manganese, and copper, take place (Zhan et al., 2014). Non-mining activities include various industries such as food, textiles, automotive, electronics, and construction, utilizing the products derived from mining activities. Generally, these activities form the backbone of any country's economy, yet they require intelligent environmental management to mitigate their negative impacts on the environment (Xiao et al., 2019). Table 3 provides a comprehensive overview of heavy metal ion contamination levels in soil near major industrial factories worldwide. The data reveals significant variations in iron, manganese, zinc, lead, and copper concentrations across different regions, reflecting diverse industrial activities and environmental conditions.

Table 3 Soil Contamination Levels of Heavy Metal Ions in the Vicinity of Major Industrial Factories.
Factory/Industry Location Iron ( m g k g - 1 ) Manganese ( m g k g - 1 ) Zinc ( m g k g - 1 ) Lead ( m g k g - 1 ) Copper ( m g k g - 1 ) Reference
Steel Plant Pittsburgh, USA 980 720 1050 890 800 (Zhao et al., 2014)
Recycling Factory Athens, Greece 740 600 920 680 780 (Abeliotis et al., 2012)
Electronic waste recycling sites Moscow, Russia 1050 920 850 780 940 (Maiurova et al., 2022)
Textile Printing Factory Bangkok, Thailand 920 740 680 1050 800 (GadelHak et al., 2023; Sirianuntapiboon et al., 2007)
Battery Manufacturing Plant Beijing, China 850 620 1120 800 930 (Shen et al., 2021)
Electronic parts recycling factory Seoul, South Korea 980 760 1050 890 1020 (Park et al., 2023)
Glass Recycling Center Madrid, Spain 630 890 750 980 680 (Istrate et al., 2021)
Textile factory Istanbul, Turkey 1020 950 860 1100 780 (Barut et al., 2016)
Aluminum Smelting Plant Dubai, UAE 1120 990 1050 680 800 (Istrate et al., 2021)
Foundry Chennai, India 920 800 880 670 760 (Sgouridis et al., 2021)
Electronic waste recycling sites Qingyuan City, China 900 680 750 1020 720 (Durai and Kandasamy., 2024)
Microchip Manufacturing Plant Taipei, Taiwan 850 920 990 1120 940 (Pan et al., 2024)
Rapid urban and industrial growth Mexico City, Mexico 670 1050 1020 780 890 (Liao et al., 2023)
Plastic Recycling Facility Jakarta, Indonesia 1100 940 680 950 850 (Sari et al., 2022)

These activities can lead to soil contamination in the surrounding areas through various mechanisms (Ba et al., 2022). Mining operations often involve the release of hazardous substances, including heavy metals and chemical compounds, into the soil. The extraction and processing of minerals can disturb the natural composition of the soil, introducing pollutants that may have detrimental effects on the ecosystem (Faraji et al., 2023). Additionally, runoff from mining sites may carry sediments and contaminants into nearby soil, further contributing to soil contamination (Tale et al., 2023). In non-mining activities, industrial processes may generate waste and emissions containing pollutants that, if not properly managed, can infiltrate the soil (Aliyu et al., 2023).

Li et al. (Li et al., 2024) conducted a study on the migration and distribution characteristics of soil heavy metals at a lead smelting site. Pb, Cd, and As were found to contaminate soil up to a depth of 5 m, indicating migration from the surface to deeper layers. Based on migration factor calculations, the migration of heavy metals in soils was ordered as Cd > Zn > Pb > As.

Wu et al. (Wu et al., 2024) investigated the dynamics of heavy metal migration and solid–liquid distribution strategy in abandoned tailing soils. They found that heavy metals are primarily bound to coarse particles in mineral form, with a gradual shift from the solid phase to the liquid phase along the migration path. The composition of soil particle size fractions was identified as the dominant factor influencing the solid–liquid distribution of heavy metals. Initially, coarse particles, especially sand, were the main component for heavy metal enrichment, but this pattern changed with increasing distance from the tailings. An increase in clay and colloids in the solid phase over geographical distances altered the distribution of heavy metals from a tendency towards the solid phase to the liquid phase. Various factors, including mineral elements such as Mg, Al, and Fe, as well as organic matter, glomalin-related soil protein (a protein produced by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi), and soil enzymes, influenced the distribution of heavy metals in soil particle size fractions. Similarly, Xu et al. (Xu et al., 2024) investigated the vertical migration behaviors of heavy metals in polluted soils from arid regions in northern China under extreme weather conditions. They identified soil texture and sorption affinity as critical factors affecting heavy metal mobility, with high sand content and low clay content promoting deeper migration. Heavy metals generally migrated ≤ 100 cm vertically due to soil interception capacity. Differential migration was observed among heavy metals, with those having lower binding affinities migrating deeper. Rainfall intensity and volume positively correlated with heavy metal transport depth and negatively correlated with peak concentration, resulting in a more uniform distribution of heavy metals and lower profile concentrations under increased rainfall. Continuous or intermittent rainfall had minimal effects on pollutant concentration redistribution when total rainfall remained constant.

Feng et al. (Feng et al., 2024) investigated heavy metal migration patterns in solid waste stockpile soils facilitated by native plants for ecological restoration in arid and semi-arid regions of Northwest China. Their study aimed to analyze the heavy metal transport characteristics of native plants in desulfurization gypsum yards, gangue yards, and fly ash yards. Results indicated an initial increase followed by a decrease in heavy metal concentrations in the root systems of native plants with distance from the yards. Artemisia frigida Willd and Artemisia sieversiana Ehrhart ex Willd showed effective migration of Ni, Pb, and Cd, with A. sieversiana particularly adept in gangue yards. Additionally, A. sieversiana demonstrated promise for Cd migration in desulfurization gypsum yards and exhibited consistent Mg migration capabilities across all three locations.

2.3

2.3 Waste disposal and sustainable management

Waste disposal and sustainable management play pivotal roles in averting soil contamination, particularly around industrial and mining sites where heavy metal ions like lead, zinc, and copper pose significant threats. Improper waste disposal methods can result in the accumulation of these heavy metals in the soil, becoming potent sources of environmental pollution. Cases of soil contamination caused by such disposal practices have been documented in recent studies (Ahumada-Mexía et al., 2021; Valenta et al., 2023). Moreover, inadequate management of industrial and mining wastes can lead to direct infiltration into the soil, impacting atmospheric and climatic processes, and even contaminating groundwater sources through leaching (Gu et al., 2023; Jibiri et al., 2014; Rueda-Avellaneda et al., 2021). Table 4 provides detailed information on the levels of heavy metal contaminants in various types of waste across different locations worldwide. These wastes include electronic, battery, mining, industrial, agricultural, and landfill waste. The data in this table indicate diverse concentrations of heavy metals such as lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper in different types of waste, reflecting variations in waste management practices and environmental conditions globally. For example, in some regions like Nigeria, the contamination with lead in electronic waste is exceptionally high, while in other areas like Ghana, various levels of lead and zinc contaminants are found in electronic waste. Moreover, the Table 4 highlights that in certain countries like China, India, Mexico, and Australia, industrial and mining activities have led to significant contamination with lead, zinc, manganese, and iron. Conversely, in other countries like South Africa, Argentina, and the USA, heavy metal contaminants are present in various areas including wastes, mines, and diverse industries.

Table 4 Concentration of Heavy Metal Contaminants in Various Types of Waste Across Global Locations.
Waste Type Contaminants Concentration ( m g k g - 1 ) Location Reference
Electronic waste Lead 2500 Nigeria (Adedeji et al., 2020; Nwazelibe et al., 2023)
Electronic waste Lead 2.01–104.03 Ghana (Ackah, 2019; Canavati et al., 2022)
Electronic waste Zinc 7.23–174.23 Ghana (Ros-Tonen et al., 2021)
Electronic waste Lead 1600 India (Gautam et al., 2023)
Battery waste Lead 432 Nigeria (Mandal et al., 2022)
Mining waste Lead and Zinc 250–12000 Mexico (Pérez-Vázquez et al., 2021)
Mining waste Lead 3000 Australia (Donskoi et al., 2022)
Industrial waste Zinc 2444 China (Gu et al., 2023)
Landfill waste Lead 24.17–71.09 Mexico (Rueda-Avellaneda et al., 2021)
Agricultural waste Zinc 23 Brazil (Feitosa et al., 2021)
Electronic waste Manganese 145–530 South Africa (Lesnik, 2014)
Mining waste Manganese 300–1200 Canada (Walton-Day and Mills, 2015)
Industrial waste Manganese 180–800 Germany (Laidlaw et al., 2017)
Landfill waste Manganese 40–120 Nigeria (Aja et al., 2021; Ogarekpe et al., 2023; Osinowo, 2016)
Agricultural waste Manganese 15–60 Argentina (Fayiga and Saha, 2016)
Electronic waste Iron 350–1200 India (Setia et al., 2023)
Battery waste Iron 200–800 Mexico (Soltani et al., 2017)
Mining waste Iron 1000–5000 Brazil (Moura et al., 2022)
Industrial waste Iron 800–2500 China (Long et al., 2021)
Landfill waste Iron 50–300 USA (Soni et al., 2022)
Electronic waste Copper 40–200 Ghana (Fujimori et al., 2016; Obiri et al., 2010)
Battery waste Copper 15–80 Italy (Tian et al., 2014)
Mining waste Copper 90–400 Chile (Santoro et al., 2021)
Industrial waste Copper 60–300 Russia (Boltakova et al., 2017)
Landfill waste Copper 10–50 Mexico (Kutralam-Muniasamy et al., 2023)

To mitigate such pollution, it is imperative to employ optimal waste disposal methods and effective management practices. This includes the adoption of advanced technologies in waste disposal, prioritizing material recycling, and ensuring the implementation of safe and appropriate disposal mechanisms (Awasthi et al., 2022; Schwanke et al., 2022). Furthermore, rigorous monitoring and enforcement of environmental regulations are essential to ensure that industrial and mining activities comply with established environmental standards and do not result in adverse environmental impacts (Eze et al., 2023; Schwanke et al., 2022).

Singh et al. (Singh et al., 2024) employed an advanced integrated soil heavy metals assessment modelling framework in the Nansha District. This comprehensive framework incorporated several models and techniques, including the Pollution Load Index, Positive Matrix Factorization, Health Risk Assessment, Monte Carlo Simulation, and Environmental Capacity models. Unlike previous studies, their framework considered the influence of pollution sources on environmental capacity when prioritizing control measures for soil heavy metals. Through this research, they aimed to investigate the characteristics of soil heavy metals pollution, assess potential source contributions, quantify associated health risks, analyze spatiotemporal dynamics of environmental capacity, and prioritize control factors based on relationships among heavy metals concentrations, pollution sources, environmental capacity, and health risks.

Zhong (Zhong et al., 2023) employed a multifaceted strategy for soil pollutant management, encompassing various key aspects. They assessed the potential of decomposed organic materials from plant residues in remedying heavy metal contamination in soils. Their focus on aerobic organic materials, which exhibited the highest potential for heavy metal removal, underscored their strategic approach. Additionally, they evaluated the removal efficiency of organic materials for heavy metal pollutants, highlighting the role of phenolic compounds, carboxylic acids, and aromatic compounds in aerobic organic materials. Spatial and temporal dynamics of environmental capacity against heavy metal pollutants were studied, providing insights into long-term remediation strategies. Moreover, they assessed the health effects associated with heavy metal pollutants and conducted risk assessments, providing valuable information for decision-making. Finally, they evaluated the impacts of pollutant sources on environmental capacity and prioritized control measures based on relationships among heavy metal concentrations, pollutant sources, environmental capacity, and health risks. This comprehensive strategy aimed to address various aspects of soil pollution management, from understanding pollutant dynamics to implementing effective remediation measures.

Hu et al. (Hu et al., 2024) highlighted the innovative framework of biochar as a soil amendment and metal adsorbent, alongside the potential of phytometallurgy for resource recovery and the economic benefits derived from metal-rich plant biomass. They primarily assessed pyrolysis for its role in transforming contaminated biomass into value-added products and minimizing waste. These plant disposal technologies create a circular model of remediation and resource utilization applicable in large-scale soil recovery projects, environmentally friendly agro-industrial development, and advancements in sustainable waste management practices.

The integration of advanced technologies, such as those highlighted by various studies, along with innovative plant disposal technologies like biochar and phytometallurgy, offers promising avenues for effective soil pollution management.

2.4

2.4 Atmospheric deposition

The process of atmospheric deposition, as a fundamental factor in the widespread occurrence of soil contamination in the vicinity of mines and various industries, is highlighted as a vital issue (Hernández-Palomares and Espejel-Ayala, 2022). The impact of this process on soil contamination varies depending on local weather conditions, pollutant levels, distance from pollution sources (such as mining factories and industries), and other variable factors (Luo et al., 2022). Climate conditions, soil quality, permeability, topography of the region, and transportation conditions are influential in this process (Awasthi et al., 2017; Sun et al., 2017).

In specific climatic conditions, the amount of moisture and rainfall can contribute to the increased transportation of pollutants from the atmosphere to the ground (Hien et al., 2022; Li et al., 2022). Additionally, soil quality and its permeability play a crucial role in the absorption and transfer of pollutants to the soil (Long et al., 2021; Zhou et al., 2022). The region's topography can determine the pattern of surface water flow and prevent the concentration of pollutants in specific areas (Li et al., 2024; Zhang et al., 2018).

The quantity and variations in precipitation throughout seasons can significantly affect the absorption and transportation of pollutants to the soil (Dutta Dey and Singh, 2021; Kim et al., 2021). Fan et al. (Fan et al., 2021) conducted a study focusing on the Minjiang River, a mesoscale mountainous river in southeastern China, aiming to assess the levels of heavy metal pollution in suspended particulate matter (SPM). Their findings revealed that SPM samples exhibited higher concentrations of particulate heavy metals compared to paired sediment samples collected from the riverbed. Furthermore, they identified spatial variations in heavy metal concentrations, with upstream SPM samples displaying higher concentrations than downstream areas for certain heavy metals. Additionally, seasonal variations were observed, with flood seasons associated with elevated concentrations of heavy metals, while some heavy metals exhibited higher concentrations during dry seasons, potentially indicating incidental anthropogenic input events.

High concentrations of pollutants in the air can lead to increased soil contamination (Khan et al., 2023; Rojas-Rueda et al., 2021). Yao et al. (Yao et al., 2024) investigated the extent of heavy metal pollution in agricultural soils near industries with relatively low emissions, specifically focusing on an alumina smelting plant and a glass factory. The findings of their study revealed moderate Cd contamination in surface soil, with atmospheric deposition identified as the primary route for Cd input in both paddy fields and dryland soils. Furthermore, the Cd values in surface soils indicated influences from dust, raw materials, and slags from industrial activities on Cd levels, with industrial sources being identified as the primary contributors to Cd contamination in soil.

The spatial distance from pollution sources can have a significant impact on the deposition of pollutants (Filonchyk and Peterson, 2023; Yang et al., 2022). Guo et al. (Guo et al., 2024) demonstrated in their study that the concentration of total mercury decreases with increasing distance from the vicinity of mercury recovery factories, while the concentrations of methylmercury and total mercury in plants are higher in the direction of the local prevailing wind compared to plants in non-prevailing wind directions. This could be attributed to the fact that most of the mercury present in the waste is released into the atmosphere via emitted flue gases during waste disposal processes, and the migration and deposition of mercury in the atmosphere are significantly influenced by meteorological conditions. The elevated concentration of methylmercury in plants downwind of the local prevailing wind direction in this study suggests substantial influence by wind direction. Approximately 50 % of the mercury is discharged as reactive gaseous mercury from factory chimneys, which promptly settles after discharge. Soil serves as a primary location for mercury methylation. Mercury deposited from the atmosphere undergoes methylation under anaerobic conditions, transforming into methylmercury, which then affects surrounding areas.

3

3 The effects of soil contamination with heavy metal ions

Soil contamination due to heavy metal ions such as lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper can have a significant impact on water and aquatic ecosystems (Usman et al., 2023). These metals infiltrate into groundwater, causing contamination of these water sources (Ahmed et al., 2021). Additionally, precipitation can transport heavy metals from the soil to rivers and lakes, leading to pollution that affects life in water bodies, including various organisms such as plants and animals (Li et al., 2022; Tyagi et al., 2022). Some heavy metals like manganese, iron, and copper may be absorbed as nutrients by certain plants, but in cases like lead and zinc, these metals can be absorbed in excess, causing harm to plants (Mandal et al., 2022). This pollution can directly impact aquatic animals and create changes in the food chain. Water contaminated with heavy metals can also harm humans through the consumption of water or direct consumption of contaminated fish (Kicińska and Wikar, 2021). Sustainable use of resources and materials, optimal land management, and the use of water treatment technologies can contribute to reducing pollution and protecting aquatic ecosystems (Wang et al., 2021).

In the soil, heavy metals enter as ions e.g., Pb(II), Zn(II). The ion exchange process in the soil with various ions, such as hydrogen ions H+ and aluminum ions Al(III), causes the migration of metal ions from the soil to the aqueous solution (Setia et al., 2023; Zhang et al., 2023). Ju et al. (Ju et al., 2024) conducted a comprehensive review with a focus on sea cucumbers (Bengali: Somuddro Sosha) as bioindicators of heavy metal contamination and toxicity. The most commonly observed heavy metals reported included Fe, Zn, As, Cu, Hg, Pb, Mn, Cr, Ni, and Cd, with specific species such as Eupentacta fraudatrix and Holothuria mammata showing elevated levels of arsenic, and Stichopus herrmanni raising concerns about mercury. Human activities such as cultivation, fishing, and shipping release heavy metals into free marine ecosystems, posing a threat to oceans and coastal environments.

During rainfall or irrigation, soil particles containing metal ions move with water towards surface waters (Khan and Shoumik, 2022; Wei et al., 2023). Vineetha et al. (Vineetha et al., 2020) studied the effects of a catastrophic flood on heavy metal pollution and the bentho-pelagic community in Cochin estuary, India. The 2018 flood led to decreased nutrients and heavy metal concentrations in water and sediments. Pre-flood, phytoplankton abundance, mainly Cerataulina bicornis, dropped significantly post-flood. Conversely, zooplankton and macrobenthos responded positively to flood-induced habitat changes. Sediment heavy metal levels decreased, promoting higher macrobenthic diversity, shifting from pollution-indicator polychaetes to healthier mollusks and crustaceans. It can be concluded that heavy metal ions have been transported by soil particles from the bed to other locations by floods, potentially leading to increased pollution in other areas.

The Capillary rise can move heavy metals towards the soil surface, ultimately combining with surface water (Yang and Chen, 2023; Yu et al., 2023). Shentu et al. (Shentu et al., 2022) conducted column experiments to investigate the effect of hydrological conditions and soil aggregate sizes on the stabilization of heavy metals (Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn) by biochar derived from the pyrolysis of swine manure. Their study found that biochar effectively reduced the leaching toxicity of Cu and Ni, with a significant immobilization effect observed in the fluctuating and saturated zones. However, the effect on Pb and Zn was relatively insignificant. The addition of biochar led to a notable increase in the residual fraction of heavy metals, particularly in small soil aggregates. These findings highlight the potential of biochar in mitigating heavy metal contamination in soil under varying hydrological conditions and soil aggregate sizes.

Physical soil properties, such as soil ratios and the adsorption capacity of soil particles, and chemical soil properties, such as soil pH, contribute to changes in the movement and absorption of heavy metals (Boerchers et al., 2016; Sapkota et al., 2023). Soil pH plays a significant role in the metabolic activities of microorganisms and affects the removal process of pollutants, either increasing or decreasing it. Measuring soil pH is a vital indicator of microbial growth potential (Meng et al., 2023). Metabolic processes are highly sensitive to high or low pH levels. Microbial species such as Clostridium, Bacteroides, Bradyrhizobium, Mycobacterium, Ruminococcus, Paenibacillus, and Rhodoplanes are commonly found in soils synthesizing Prostaglandin E, and pH is a major factor determining the diversity, population, and composition of microbes in Prostaglandin E soils (Wu et al., 2024). The key process in the effect of pH on microbial communities could be the mediation of nutrient availability in the soil. Additionally, microbial activity is not directly linked to plant productivity but is actively associated with plant species' health. The response of plants to increased nitrogen treatment enhances productivity while reducing species richness. Soil microbes act as gatekeepers to maintain the balance between soil organic matter accumulation and release in the soil-atmosphere carbon exchange system (Naz et al., 2022). Effective soil management strategies are crucial for enhancing soil carbon storage. The relationship between the ecological and physiological characteristics of microorganisms and the topsoil carbon content varies among geographically distributed soils and land uses (Wan et al., 2019). Microbial processes regulating carbon accumulation operate at different pH levels. Land-use intensification slows down microbial decomposer activity in low-pH soil when the pH rises above the threshold, leading to increased carbon decomposition and loss. Understanding how soil pH impacts processes interconnected with the biological, geological, and chemical elements of the soil environment, and how anthropogenic interventions generate changes in soil pH, is essential. Soil pH can be utilized in two broad categories: plant nutrition and soil remediation (bioremediation or physicochemical remediation). The relationship between soil pH determined by various cultivation methods and potential denitrification is still unclear, and the results are affected by both the original soil sample condition and changes during the cultivation process (Wang et al., 2024). The concept of optimal pH for denitrification lacks meaning without reference to specific process properties. This study also highlighted the effects of soil pH on nitrogen fixation, the influence of soil parent material type on soil pH, and the impact of heavy metal viability in soil on microbial activity. Soil pollution by heavy metals significantly affects underground microorganisms, and understanding soil microbial activities and community structure can provide crucial information about the toxic effects or harmful impacts on soil health due to heavy metal accumulation (Amarasinghe et al., 2024; Naz et al., 2022).

Lu-Lu He et al. (He et al., 2021) conducted a meta-analysis on the effects of liming on soil pH and cadmium accumulation in crops. The study revealed that liming had a positive effect on soil pH but a negative impact on crop Cd accumulation. Different lime materials increased soil pH and decreased Cd accumulation in crops. Pot experiments demonstrated greater effects on soil pH compared to field experiments, although types and amounts of lime application did not significantly differ in their effect on soil pH. Lower background values of soil pH, soil organic matter, cation exchange capacity, and clay facilitated the efficacy of liming in enhancing soil pH. Soil properties such as total Cd concentration, soil organic matter, cation exchange capacity, and clay content also influenced the efficiency of lime addition in reducing Cd accumulation in crops. These findings suggest that lime addition is an effective strategy for mitigating soil Cd contamination by increasing soil pH and reducing Cd bioavailability. Kim et al. (Kim et al., 2020) investigated the impact of various acids and pH neutralizers on dredged marine sediment contaminated with heavy metals, aiming to assess their effects on sediment quality for plant growth. Their study revealed that residual salts in the sediment pose critical stressors for barley germination and growth, surpassing the impact of high-level heavy metals and petroleum hydrocarbons. Acid washing and pH neutralization substantially reduced sediment salinity by factors of 6.1–9.5, leading to 100 % germination of barley. The use of CaO as a pH neutralizer created a Ca-rich condition that favored barley growth. Willscher et al. (Willscher et al., 2017) conducted experiments to investigate the growth behavior and phytoextraction potential of Helianthus tuberosus under varying soil pH levels and concentrations of heavy metals. High concentrations of heavy metals such as Fe, Mn, and Zn in the roots decreased with increasing pH, while shoots accumulated higher amounts of these elements.

Zeng et al. (Zeng et al., 2011) studied how soil pH and organic matter content affect the availability of heavy metals and their uptake by rice plants. They found that soil pH negatively correlated with EDTA-extractable heavy metal contents in soils and heavy metal concentrations in rice tissues, while organic matter content showed a positive correlation. Soil pH had a significant impact on heavy metal concentrations in rice plants. The study showed that EDTA-extractable heavy metal contents were higher in Nanhu soils compared to Tongxiang and Xiaoshan soils, aligning with soil organic matter content but contrasting with soil pH values.

Soil pH plays a crucial role in various environmental processes, including microbial activities, nutrient availability, and heavy metal accumulation. Studies have shown its significant impact on plant growth, soil remediation strategies, and the overall health of the soil ecosystem.

3.1

3.1 Plant uptake and crop contamination

Heavy metals in soil, exacerbated by industrialization, pose significant risks to plant and animal life. These metals enter ecosystems through natural processes and human activities, leading to their absorption by plant roots and subsequent accumulation. Essential Heavy metals like Mn, Zn, Cu, Fe, Co, Ni, Se, and Mo play vital roles in plant biology, while non-essential ones such as As, Cr, Cd, Hg, Ag, and Pb compete for protein binding sites, causing toxicity and plant dysfunction. Heavy metal stress induces symptoms like root browning, growth stunting, and chlorosis, impacting enzyme activity, membrane integrity, and ROS balance. Variability exists in Heavy metal uptake, ROS generation, and stress tolerance among species, with Cr, As, and Cd posing frequent risks. Arsenic disrupts plant metabolism, Cd inhibits growth and photosynthesis, while Cr damages photosynthesis and root structures. Plants deploy defense mechanisms including root exudation and enzymatic antioxidants to scavenge harmful metal ions (Ningombam et al., 2024).

Fig. 2 illustrates the impact of heavy metal ion pollution on factors influencing soil fertility for plant growth. Heavy metal ions such as lead, mercury, zinc, and cadmium, present as pollutants in the soil, can lead to a reduction in the activity of soil microbes. These microbes, playing a crucial role in organic matter processing, may be directly or indirectly affected (Vargas-Solano et al., 2022).

Influences of heavy metal ion contamination on factors governing soil fertility for plant growth.
Fig. 2
Influences of heavy metal ion contamination on factors governing soil fertility for plant growth.

Haider et al. (Haider et al., 2023) emphasized the detrimental effects of industrial effluent and sewage waste on soil microbial biomass and enzyme activities. They observed notable reductions in microbial biomass carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur, indicating the harmful impact of heavy metal contamination on microbial communities essential for nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. Enzyme activities crucial for soil functioning, such as amidase, urease, alkaline-phosphatase, β-glucosidase, arylsulphatase, and dehydrogenase, were also suppressed in the presence of untreated wastewater and industrial effluent. The study further illuminated the consequences of heavy metal accumulation in soil on plant health, with vegetables cultivated in contaminated soil showing higher levels of metal uptake compared to those irrigated with cleaner water sources. This underscores the potential risks associated with food safety and human health due to soil contamination. Additionally, the research revealed seasonal variations in soil microbial parameters and enzyme activities, with a significant increase observed in response to rising temperatures from winter to spring.

This reduction in microbial activity results in a decrease in the decomposition of organic matter in the soil. Soil microbes are actively involved in the breakdown of organic materials, and a decrease in their activity leads to the accumulation of excess organic materials with limited decomposition into more beneficial substances. These reactions ultimately lead to a reduction in the supply of nutrients for plants. Plants rely on these nutrients for growth and nutrition, so a decrease in the decomposition of organic matter can contribute to achieving optimal growth and development of plants from the soil (Kumar et al., 2021).

Therefore, soil contamination with metals can disrupt the chain of ecological interactions, leading to a decline in soil productivity, plant health, and consequently, the overall environmental well-being of the region. This underscores the necessity of implementing management and protective measures to control and reduce soil contamination, ensuring that the negative impacts on the environment are minimized (Kamrath and Yuan, 2022).

The adverse effects of heavy metal ions on plants and the photosynthesis process signify a crucial strategy in understanding environmental damages. These ions, including lead, cadmium, chromium, and nickel, possess the capability to induce oxidative stress in plants. The elicitation of oxidative stress by these ions leads to increased production of free radicals and damage to plant cells, which can result in the inhibition of key enzyme activities crucial for photosynthesis (Liu et al., 2022). This enzymatic inhibition, vital for converting light into chemical energy in plants, contributes to a reduction in the production of glucose and other essential molecules necessary for growth (Mapodzeke et al., 2021). Furthermore, heavy metal ions can diminish light absorption by plants by causing alterations in the structure of chlorophyll and other proteins involved in photosynthesis, impacting the proportion of chlorophyll compounds (QIN et al., 2020). Additionally, these mineral elements may act as unstable growth stimulants, inducing biological and physiological changes in plants that influence their growth. Consequently, scientific studies indicate that the use of these heavy metal ions may lead to a decrease in the efficiency of plant photosynthesis and, consequently, a reduction in their growth and development rates (LI et al., 2022). These findings vividly illustrate the detrimental effects of these substances on the biological foundation of plants, particularly the vital process of photosynthesis (Zia-ur-Rehman et al., 2023). Table 5 illustrates the impact of soil contamination with heavy metal ions on various plants over different time intervals. The table provides information on symptoms observed in different plants, soil concentrations of specific heavy metal ions (Pb, Zn, Fe, Mg, Cu), duration of exposure in days, and corresponding references.

Table 5 The Impact of Soil Contamination with Heavy Metal Ions on Plants Over Various Time Intervals.
Plant Symptoms Soil Concentration ( m g k g - 1 ) Duration of Exposure (days) Reference
Pb Zn Fe Mg Cu
Tomato Chlorosis, necrosis, reduced growth, and yield 56 210 120 80 35 60 (Ma et al., 2023)
Wheat Reduced growth, chlorosis, reduced photosynthesis 49 156 90 60 28 90 (Xu et al., 2023)
Bean Leaf necrosis, reduced nutrient uptake, reduced growth and yield 70 180 150 120 55 120 (Silva-Gigante et al., 2023)
Corn Stunted growth, chlorosis, reduced photosynthesis 80 250 110 75 40 45 (Liang et al., 2023)
Soybean Leaf necrosis, reduced nutrient uptake, increased susceptibility to pests 65 200 140 95 50 75 (Zhang et al., 2024)
Spinach Reduced leaf size, chlorosis, inhibited nutrient uptake 40 180 75 45 20 80 (He et al., 2023)
Carrot Deformed roots, stunted growth, reduced yield 55 220 130 80 45 100 (He et al., 2023)
Cabbage Yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, reduced biomass 60 190 100 70 30 70 (Goswami et al., 2024)
Sunflower Altered leaf morphology, reduced seed production 45 170 85 50 25 110 (Waseem et al., 2024)
Potato Brown spots on leaves, reduced tuber size 50 200 120 70 35 95 (Wang et al., 2024)

3.2

3.2 Health risks and hazards associated

Contact with soil contaminated with substances such as lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper can pose serious health risks to humans (Durkalec et al., 2022; Y. Liu et al., 2023). These substances, if present in the soil, may have toxic effects, particularly impacting neurological health, kidneys, liver, and the digestive system with prolonged exposure (Ogarekpe et al., 2023). For instance, extended contact with lead can lead to neurological problems and kidney damage, while zinc may induce kidney toxicity and manganese might contribute to neurological disorders (Goswami et al., 2023). Excessive intake of iron and copper can also result in liver and digestive system damage. Soil contamination with these elements has been linked to serious diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, cancer, and respiratory problems (Fox et al., 2012). Especially in cases where individuals are directly in contact with the soil, the accumulation of these substances in the body can rapidly or gradually increase, intensifying long-term health effects (Awasthi et al., 2017). This issue is particularly critical for children, given their heightened sensitivity and the greater impact of these elements on their growth and development, presenting a significant challenge to child health preservation (Jordanova et al., 2021). Therefore, the necessity of controlling and reducing soil contamination with these elements is of paramount importance to minimize the negative health impacts on the community, emphasizing the indispensable need for precautionary measures to safeguard individual and collective health.

3.3

3.3 Threats to wildlife and ecosystems

Soil contamination with heavy metal ions such as lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper has profound effects on both wildlife and plant species (Marsili et al., 2009). In Fig. 3, these impacts have been meticulously examined. Some of these ions are recognized as essential elements for plant growth, but in excessive amounts, they can become toxic (Huang et al., 2023). Soil contamination with lead, manganese, iron, and copper can have direct and indirect impacts on wildlife and the environment. In terms of direct toxicity, lead can lead to reduced reproduction, disruptions in the growth and physical development of animals, and a decline in sexual quality (Cooray et al., 2021; Lesnik, 2014). Manganese can induce behavioral changes and nervous system disorders in animals, while iron has physiological effects on animals. Copper can also lead to a toxic pathway, with its effects including alterations in the nervous system, liver, and blood (Anderson et al., 2022). Pollution with these metals can be transferred to plants and animals through water and soil, entering the food chain and causing changes in species diversity and environmental events. Furthermore, the accumulation of these metals in soil and water can lead to environmental degradation, a decline in soil and water quality, and the destruction of grasslands and forests (Morshdy et al., 2021). This can result in a reduction in biodiversity and the extinction of species sensitive to these metals. These pollutants may interact with other stressors, generating simultaneous effects (Bhatnagar et al., 2022). The synergistic effects of lead and zinc pollution, especially in the context of avian health, indicate the possibility of complex interactions and interferences. When lead and zinc coexist in the environment, their combined effects may surpass the individual impacts, referred to as synergistic interactions (Liu et al., 2023). In the realm of bird health, it has been revealed that exposure to lead is associated with an increased susceptibility to avian malaria. This suggests that the presence of lead can weaken the immune system of birds or create conditions that make them more vulnerable to malaria (Maity et al., 2011). Additionally, reference to “other stressors” indicates that environmental factors, diseases, or other conditions may simultaneously influence birds. These synergistic effects may result from a combination of exposure to lead and zinc along with these additional stress-inducing factors (Zielinska et al., 2012).

Effects of Soil Contamination on Flora and Fauna Species: Eastern Fence Lizard (Brasfield et al., 2004), Tilapia Fish (Ahmed et al., 2023), Birds (Khan et al., 2023), Termites (Abadia et al., 2022), Microbial Communities (Pang et al., 2023), Lichen Communities (Rola et al., 2022), Earthworms (Li et al., 2023), Ants (Frizzi et al., 2017).
Fig. 3
Effects of Soil Contamination on Flora and Fauna Species: Eastern Fence Lizard (Brasfield et al., 2004), Tilapia Fish (Ahmed et al., 2023), Birds (Khan et al., 2023), Termites (Abadia et al., 2022), Microbial Communities (Pang et al., 2023), Lichen Communities (Rola et al., 2022), Earthworms (Li et al., 2023), Ants (Frizzi et al., 2017).

4

4 Integrated approaches for soil contamination assessment and monitoring

4.1

4.1 Advancements in sampling and analytical techniques

In the process of monitoring and assessing lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper contamination in soil, sampling is a fundamental step. The random sampling method allows the random selection of points within the study area, capturing representative samples that provide reliable insights into the contamination status of these five elements. Additionally, composite sampling offers the advantage of obtaining more comprehensive information about the density of contamination. In the case of network sampling, this method enables the collection of samples from significant and polluted points for each element separately, facilitating a more precise and detailed analysis (Neo et al., 2022).

Moving on to the analysis stage, the selection of appropriate techniques is of paramount importance. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) is employed for measuring the concentration of each element individually in soil samples, providing accurate information on the concentrations of lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) is utilized for the high-precision analysis of trace elements in soil samples (Ech-Charef et al., 2023). Fluorescence X-ray (XRF) is also used for simultaneous analysis of the concentrations of lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper in soil samples, offering rapid results (Qu et al., 2022).

AAS is suitable for measuring individual elements with high accuracy, but it may be less efficient for multielement analysis compared to ICP-MS. On the other hand, ICP-MS offers high sensitivity and multielement capability, making it ideal for analyzing trace elements in soil samples. The choice between AAS and ICP-MS depends on the specific analytical requirements of the study, such as detection limits, sample throughput, and available budget. AAS may be preferred for routine analysis of major elements, while ICP-MS is more suitable for trace element analysis. XRF provides rapid, non-destructive analysis of multiple elements in soil samples, making it suitable for high-throughput screening. It requires minimal sample preparation and can analyze large sample volumes quickly. Despite its advantages, XRF may suffer from lower precision and sensitivity compared to techniques like ICP-MS. It may also be less effective for detecting elements present at trace levels or for samples with complex matrices.

Furthermore, the application of Synchrotron-based X-ray Fluorescence Microscopy (XFM) allows for high-resolution imaging and a more detailed examination of the spatial distribution of lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper in soil samples (Masindi, 2017). Synchrotron-based XFM offers high spatial resolution and elemental mapping capabilities, allowing for detailed examination of the spatial distribution of heavy metals in soil samples. XFM requires access to synchrotron facilities, which may limit its availability and increase costs. It is also time-consuming and may not be suitable for routine analysis.

The Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) technique serves as a rapid and non-destructive method for assessing the concentrations of these elements in soil samples, providing continuous improvement in data collection from various points in the region (Zhang et al., 2021). It offers real-time elemental analysis and can be portable for field applications. LIBS may have lower sensitivity and accuracy compared to techniques like ICP-MS. It is best suited for qualitative or semi-quantitative analysis rather than precise quantification.

Table 6 provides a concise overview of various techniques for the detection and analysis of lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper in soil samples. These combined techniques form a comprehensive and precise approach to monitoring and evaluating contamination by lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper in soil. The resulting information is vital for making informed decisions aimed at improving the environment and safeguarding the health of both humans and other living organisms.

Table 6 Overview of Techniques for Heavy Metal Detection and Analysis in Soil.
Technique Description Advantages Disadvantages Reference
Magnetic Solid-Phase Extraction Utilizes magnetic materials to selectively extract and concentrate target metals from soil samples for subsequent analysis. Selective extraction, high sensitivity, and ability to pre-concentrate metals. Limited to magnetic metals, may require optimization for different soil types, and potential interference from other magnetic substances. (Xiao et al., 2023; Zhou et al., 2024)
Portable X-ray Fluorescence (PXRF) Handheld devices that use X-ray fluorescence to determine the elemental composition of soil in real-time, providing quick on-site analysis. Rapid, non-destructive, on-site analysis, and simultaneous detection of multiple elements. Limited depth penetration, may require calibration for specific soil types, and potential interference from sample matrix. (Kirichkov et al., 2024)
Sequential Extraction A laboratory-based method that involves a series of chemical extractions to partition metals in soil into different phases, helping assess their mobility. Provides information on metal speciation and mobility in the soil. Time-consuming, requires specialized equipment, and may not represent in situ conditions accurately. (Xu et al., 2023)
Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Utilizes laser-induced plasma to analyze the elemental composition of soil by measuring the emitted light spectrum. Rapid, multi-element analysis, minimal sample preparation, and suitable for in situ and remote sensing applications. Limited depth penetration, sensitivity to sample matrix variations, and potential for spectral interferences. (Baruah et al., 2023; Ma et al., 2023; Zhao et al., 2022)
In situ Soil Analysis On-site analysis methods that assess soil properties without the need for sample collection, providing immediate results for decision-making. Real-time results, minimizes sample transportation, and facilitates rapid decision-making in the field. Limited to surface analysis, may lack the precision of laboratory methods, and instrument costs may be high. (Dou et al., 2024)
X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) Non-destructive technique that uses X-rays to excite soil samples, producing fluorescent X-rays that are analyzed to determine elemental concentrations. Non-destructive, rapid, multi-element analysis, and suitable for various soil types. Limited sensitivity for certain elements, requires calibration, and potential interference from sample matrix components. (Bilo et al., 2024)
Spectroscopic Techniques Various methods (e.g., UV–Vis, IR) that analyze the interaction between soil and electromagnetic radiation to identify and quantify metal concentrations. Wide applicability, non-destructive, and provides information on soil organic matter and mineral composition. May require complex calibration models, sensitivity to soil moisture variations, and potential interference from other soil components. (Zhang et al., 2023)
Electrochemical Techniques Involves using electrodes and measuring electrical properties, such as voltammetry, to determine metal concentrations in soil. High sensitivity, relatively low cost, and suitable for on-site measurements. May require specific electrode materials, sensitivity to environmental conditions, and potential interference from other ions in the soil. (Kumar et al., 2023)
Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) As mentioned earlier, LIBS is a technique that uses laser-induced plasma for elemental analysis in soil samples. Rapid, multi-element analysis, minimal sample preparation, and applicable to various sample matrices. Limited depth penetration, sensitivity to sample matrix variations, and potential for spectral interferences. (Yu et al., 2020)
Magnetic Susceptibility Measurements Measures the soil's response to an applied magnetic field, providing information on magnetic minerals and potentially associated metals. Non-destructive, rapid, and provides information on magnetic minerals in the soil. May not directly measure metal concentrations, sensitivity to soil moisture content, and potential interference from non-magnetic minerals. (Sudarningsih et al., 2023; Wang et al., 2023)

4.2

4.2 Geographic information systems and remote sensing techniques

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing techniques are vital tools in the fields of mapping and monitoring spatial information. GIS, as a system based on spatial data, enables the collection, storage, analysis, and accurate visualization of spatial information (Yang et al., 2022). Utilizing spatial data such as maps and GPS information, GIS identifies patterns and spatial relationships through detailed analysis. Effective parameters in GIS and remote sensing techniques include spatial data, coordinate systems determining precise object locations in two or three dimensions, spatial analysis for in-depth analysis of spatial data to extract desired patterns and information, geographic databases providing a data structure for efficient storage of spatial information, image processing for analyzing satellite or aerial images to extract spatial information, spatial modeling using models and algorithms to simulate and predict spatial events and phenomena, and raster and vector maps presenting information through pixelated images or lines and points, respectively (Pfitzner et al., 2022). These parameters, in collaboration, create a comprehensive analytical environment in various fields such as urban planning and ecology. Table 7 provides a comprehensive comparison of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing methods for mapping and monitoring soils contaminated with heavy metal ions. Various studies across different locations worldwide employ these techniques to assess heavy metal pollution, identify contamination sources, and map spatial distributions. Strategic sampling point selection in the field of soil contamination possesses characteristics and advantages that can contribute to the improvement of assessment and monitoring of soil contamination, particularly heavy metal ions (Nwazelibe et al., 2023). In this approach, sampling points should have the ability to represent the credibility and reliability of the overall condition of the region, effectively visualizing macroscopic changes in pollution. Furthermore, these points should be distributed across various areas of the region, encompassing diverse and variable soil conditions to depict environmental diversity in the samples. Monitoring the pathways of heavy metal transport, temporal distribution of pollution, the impact of geographical variations, and awareness of potential pollution sources are also essential features in point selection (Khan et al., 2022b). Moreover, the number of sampling points should be sufficient to ensure the reliability of the information obtained from them. This selection should be satellite-based and conducted periodically to enhance pollution monitoring, improve the understanding of pollution dynamics, and observe changes in pollution over time.

Table 7 Comparison of GIS and Remote Sensing Methods for Mapping and Monitoring Soils Contaminated with Heavy Metal Ions.
Contaminant(s) Location Methodology Results Implications Reference
Mapping and monitoring heavy metal pollution China Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing remote sensing and GIS Implementation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) for high-resolution imagery (Yang et al., 2022)
Identification of sources of heavy metal contamination Liberia Lead, Manganese, Copper Employing GIS analysis and statistical modeling Integrating GIS data with soil and water quality data (Koon et al., 2023)
Mapping heavy metal contamination in urban areas and engaging the community Hungary Manganese, Copper Utilizing GIS analysis Effective communication and community engagement with residents (Horváth et al., 2018)
Mapping and monitoring of heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils China Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Leveraging remote sensing and GIS data Integrating machine learning algorithms and Sentinel-2 satellite data (Dai et al., 2022)
Mapping and monitoring of heavy metal contamination in industrial sites Iran Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing remote sensing and GIS data Integrating spectral indices and machine learning algorithms (Goodarzi et al., 2023)
Spatial prediction of soil heavy metal pollution China Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Applying machine learning algorithms and geostatistics Integrating soil, geologic, and remote sensing data (Chen et al., 2023)
Mapping of heavy metal pollution in agricultural soils China Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing machine learning and remote sensing data Integrating multiple spectral indices and random forest algorithm (Wang et al., 2023)
Developing an integrated approach for mapping heavy metal contamination China Lead, Cadmium, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing remote sensing data and field surveys Combining machine learning algorithms and GIS analysis (Wang et al., 2023)
Assessing the spatial distribution of heavy metals in urban soil China Lead, Zinc, Copper Utilizing remote sensing data and field surveys Employing spatial interpolation and mapping techniques (Deng et al., 2023)
Mapping the spatial extent of lead contamination in soils USA Lead Utilizing aerial photographs and field samples Applying object-based image analysis (Miao et al., 2015)
Developing a decision support system for mapping heavy metal contamination Iran Lead, Cadmium, Nickel Utilizing remote sensing data and field surveys Employing GIS analysis and decision tree algorithms (Azizi et al., 2022)
Mapping lead and zinc contaminated soils Tunisia Lead, Zinc Utilizing remote sensing imagery and field measurements Employing a random forest model and GIS analysis (Mezned et al., 2022)
Identification of areas of heavy metal contamination India Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing Sentinel-2 satellite data and field measurements Applying machine learning algorithms and GIS analysis (Khan et al., 2022a)
Assessing the spatial distribution of heavy metal pollution Nigeria Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing remote sensing imagery and field measurements Employing geostatistical analysis and GIS techniques (Nwazelibe et al., 2023)
Identifying the sources of heavy metal pollution Iran Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing remote sensing imagery and field measurements Applying spectral indices and machine learning algorithms (Asadzadeh et al., 2020)
Identifying and mapping contaminated soils using spectral indices and machine learning Turkey Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing Sentinel-2 imagery and soil samples Applying spectral indices and Support Vector Machine (SVM) (Albayrak et al., 2021)
To map the distribution of lead, zinc, manganese, and copper in soil using remote sensing and GIS techniques China Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing Landsat 8 OLI, Sentinel-2A MSI Employing a novel approach combining decision tree, random forest, and backpropagation neural network algorithms with spectral indices (Wu et al., 2022)
To assess the suitability of different remote sensing techniques for mapping lead, zinc, manganese, and copper contamination in soil UK Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing hyperspectral imaging and Sentinel-2A MSI Comparing two different remote sensing techniques for lead, zinc, manganese, and copper mapping using supervised classification and accuracy assessment (Yingjie Li et al., 2021)
To investigate the use of drone-based hyperspectral imaging for mapping lead, zinc, manganese, and copper in soil Australia Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing drone-based hyperspectral imaging Developing a novel classification method using support vector machine algorithm and feature selection techniques (Pfitzner et al., 2022)
To develop a model for mapping and monitoring lead, zinc, manganese, and copper contamination in soil using machine learning algorithms Morocco Lead, Zinc, Manganese, Copper Utilizing field data and Landsat-8 satellite imagery Applying Random Forest algorithm and spectral indices (Acharki, 2022)

5

5 Exploring physical, chemical, and biological remediation techniques

Remediating contaminated soil is a critical and significant issue with a substantial impact on preserving environmental health and ensuring food security for communities (Xie et al., 2021). Soil, as a fundamental component of the environment, plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and the balance of ecosystems (Li et al., 2020). Remediating contaminated soil implies preserving and enhancing the quality of this valuable environmental component (Shukla et al., 2022). Soil serves as the primary growth medium for agricultural products. If the soil is contaminated, harmful elements may be absorbed by crops, posing health risks to consumers (Thatikayala et al., 2023). Soil remediation contributes to improving the quality of agricultural products and ensuring food security (Pal et al., 2023). Soil unintentionally acts as a filter for water, reducing groundwater pollution. Contaminated soil, however, can allow harmful elements to infiltrate water sources, leading to a decline in water quality and associated health hazards (Song et al., 2017).

Contaminated soil can pose threats to the health of humans and other organisms. Soil remediation involves the elimination or reduction of various pollutants, such as heavy metals, organic materials, or chemicals, directly impacting human health and the environment. Soil serves as the foundation for production in the agricultural and industrial sectors (Faiza Amin et al., 2023). If the soil is contaminated, the performance of agricultural products diminishes, negatively affecting industries dependent on soil resources. Soil remediation contributes to environmental sustainability, helping to maintain a balance between the economy and the environment.

A comparative Table 8 of various techniques for addressing soil pollution indicates that electrodes are the optimal choice for soils with low permeability, albeit with high energy consumption and slow processes. Plant uptake offers a sustainable and cost-effective approach, although it is slow and dependent on plant growth conditions. Surfactant flushing is effective for surface contaminant removal but comes with high surfactant costs and the potential for groundwater pollution. Pump-and-treat systems are efficient for surface pollutant removal and adaptable to various situations but incur high costs and produce pollutant-contaminated waste. Electrical current has the capability to treat deep-seated pollutants with minimal soil disturbance and reusable electrodes, yet it consumes high energy and may generate acidic/alkaline waste.

Table 8 Comparative Analysis of Techniques for Soil Remediation.
Technique Material Advantages Limitations Reference
Electrodes Citric Acid Effective for low permeability soils; minimal soil disturbance High energy usage; potential for metal redeposition; slow process (Sotolářová et al., 2021; Zhu et al., 2024)
Plant Uptake Sunflower; Vetiver Grass Sustainable and low cost; can be used on-site; aesthetic value Slow process; dependent on plant species and growth conditions; not effective for deep contamination (Kriti et al., 2021)
Surfactant Flushing Tween 80 Effective for removing surface contaminants; can be used on-site High cost of surfactant; potential for groundwater contamination (Priyadarshini and Chattopadhyay, 2023)
Pump-and-Treat System Surfactants, Chelating Agents Effective in removing surface contaminants; can be used in situ or ex situ High cost; generates large amounts of contaminated waste (Li et al., 2023)
Electrical Current Electrodes, Electrolyte Can treat deep-seated contaminants; minimal soil disturbance; reusable electrodes High energy consumption; only applicable to low-permeability soils; may generate acidic/alkaline waste (Subramaniam et al., 2024)
Magnetic Field Magnetite High efficiency; low cost; reusable material Limited to surface contamination; requires pre-treatment of soil (Amin et al., 2023)
Stabilization Kaolinite, Lime Effective for long-term immobilization of contaminants High cost; may require multiple applications (Dwivedi and Gupta, 2023)
Stabilization/Solidification Cement, Fly Ash Effective for reducing leachability of contaminants High cost; may require significant soil disturbance (Liu et al., 2024)
Incineration High efficiency; reduces volume of contaminated soil High cost; energy intensive; may release pollutants to air (Bo et al., 2022)
Magnetic Field Iron Oxide High efficiency; low cost; reusable material Limited to surface contamination; may require pre-treatment of soil (Mahanty et al., 2023)
Stabilization Biochar, Cement, Fly Ash Effective for long-term immobilization of contaminants; can improve soil fertility High cost; may require multiple applications; limited applicability to certain soil types (Li and Wang, 2023)
Stabilization/Solidification Cement, Fly Ash Effective for reducing leachability of contaminants; can improve soil strength High cost; may require significant soil disturbance; potential for secondary waste generation (Fan et al., 2021)
Pyrolysis High efficiency; reduces volume of contaminated soil; can recover energy and nutrients High cost; energy intensive; potential for air pollution (Yang et al., 2023)
Co-treatment with Phosphate and Calcined Oyster Shell Phosphate and Calcined Oyster Shell Low cost, eco-friendly, and easy to apply Only effective in slightly acidic or neutral soil conditions (Zhao et al., 2024)
In-situ Stabilization Biochar and Lime Low cost and eco-friendly Lime may increase soil pH, potentially affecting soil properties and plant growth (Wang et al., 2020)
Fenton-like Oxidation Ferrous Sulfate and Hydrogen Peroxide Effective in a wide range of soil conditions and removes both Pb and Zn Generates large amounts of sludge and potential environmental risks associated with disposal (Xing et al., 2024)
Sulfide Treatment Sodium Sulfide Low cost and eco-friendly Generates H2S gas which is toxic and has an unpleasant odor (Zhang et al., 2024)
Anion Exchange Resin Macroporous Weak Base Anion Exchange Resin High selectivity for lead and zinc Requires frequent resin replacement (Marszałek et al., 2023)
Fungal Remediation Pleurotus Ostreatus Effective in removing multiple contaminants Limited field studies and requires further research (Xu et al., 2021)
Microbial Augmentation Micrococcus sp., Bacillus sp., and Pseudomonas sp. Increases microbial activity and enhances remediation efficiency Limited effectiveness in highly contaminated soils (Cao et al., 2023; Yadav et al., 2023a)

In the realm of physical approaches, excavation refers to the removal of contaminated soil through digging or dredging, followed by on-site treatment or transport to an appropriate disposal facility (Li et al., 2019). This method is typically effective in cases where the volume of contaminated soil is relatively low or contamination is limited to specific areas. Soil venting capitalizes on the natural process of volatilization, where contaminants transform into vapors that are expelled from the soil (Zhan et al., 2023). This method proves particularly efficient for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), especially when contaminants easily transition from liquid to vapor states (Shi et al., 2019). Soil washing, on the other hand, employs a treated solution to dissolve and separate contaminants from the soil, resulting in cleaner soil. This technique is highly effective for removing organic and heavy materials, especially when dealing with fine-grained soils (Li et al., 2019).

Chemical remediation comprises a diverse set of techniques that leverage chemical compounds to address soil contamination, aiming to immobilize, transform, or eliminate contaminants (Jou and Huang, 2003). The Soil Washing method is instrumental, involving the treatment of contaminated soil with a chemical solution (Lin et al., 2022; Yang et al., 2022). This solution acts as a solvent, effectively dissolving and separating organic compounds and heavy metals from the soil matrix. This process is particularly valuable in cases where targeted removal of specific contaminants, such as organic pollutants or heavy metals, is required.

Stabilization/Solidification, another chemical approach, employs the addition of specific chemical additives to the soil. These additives induce reactions that bind and immobilize contaminants, forming stable compounds. This technique is especially advantageous in impeding the mobility of heavy metals and organic substances within the soil, preventing their further spread or leaching into groundwater (Ma et al., 2019; Zhang et al., 2021).

Electrokinetic Remediation utilizes an electric current passed through the soil, leading contaminants to move towards electrodes, where they can be subsequently extracted. This method is highly effective in removing heavy metals and soluble contaminants, providing a targeted and controlled remediation approach (Zhu et al., 2024).

Each of these chemical remediation approaches offers a distinct set of advantages and applications, allowing for tailored strategies in addressing various soil contamination challenges. The selection of a specific technique depends on factors such as the type and extent of contamination, soil composition, and the desired remediation outcome. To mitigate pollution caused by heavy metal ions, including lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper, from contaminated soils, two biological approaches are employed to enhance soil quality and remove metal pollution: Phytoremediation involves the use of plants to absorb, accumulate, and detoxify heavy metals from the soil. Certain plant species, known as hyperaccumulators, have the ability to accumulate high concentrations of metals in their tissues without displaying toxic effects. These plants can be strategically cultivated in contaminated areas to uptake and sequester metals, thereby reducing soil contamination. Once the plants have absorbed the metals, they can be harvested and disposed of, effectively removing the contaminants from the soil (Huang et al., 2023). Bioremediation employs microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae to degrade or immobilize heavy metals in the soil. Microorganisms can transform soluble metal ions into insoluble forms or bind them to their cell surfaces, reducing their mobility and bioavailability. This process can be enhanced by optimizing environmental conditions, such as pH and nutrient levels, to promote the activity of metal-tolerant microorganisms (Fei et al., 2022).

The bioremediation process, through biostimulation and bioaugmentation, involves methods for degrading pollutants (Gupta et al., 2022). The former relies on native microorganisms, while the latter entails the injection of exogenous microorganisms with the contaminants. Significant progress has been made in pollutant degradation through bioremediation. It has been reported that lactic acid-producing bacteria such as Bifidobacterium longum, B. lactis, and Lactobacillus fermentum have the ability to remove two heavy metals, lead, and cadmium, from water. Description of bacteria and enzymes related to the degradation of polyethylene terephthalate exists. Due to the challenges associated with controlling the growth parameters of microorganisms, their use in bioremediation is limited (Bharagava et al., 2020). Metagenomics has emerged as an effective strategy in understanding efficacious microorganisms, functional genes, bioactive molecules, and enzymes in a particular sample of the environment. Both function-based and sequence-based approaches are effective in characterizing microorganisms and their gene products for an efficient degradation process. These products include enzymes such as oxygenases, peroxidases, xylanases, and oxidoreductases derived from microbial sources using genomic, metagenomic, and metatranscriptomic approaches. Rapid analysis of microbes and their associated products through meta-omics has revolutionized microbial studies (Wani et al., 2022).

Plant-based remediation methods, collectively known as phytoremediation, offer environmentally sustainable approaches to mitigate soil contamination (Dikšaitytė et al., 2023). Various plants, such as Brassica napus, Brassica juncea, Festuca arundinacea, Pinus massoniana, Phragmites australis, Medicago sativa, Lolium perenne, Robinia pseudoacacia, Indian mustard, Vetiver grass, Fern, Sedum alfredii, Chrysopogon zizanioides, and Helianthus annuus, are among the species utilized in phytoremediation processes for the removal of heavy metal ions (Steliga and Kluk, 2020; Yadav et al., 2023b). These plants, with their unique biological characteristics, play a significant role in absorbing, accumulating, and reducing the levels of heavy metals from soil and water (Li et al., 2021). These techniques harness the natural capabilities of plants to absorb, accumulate, and often transform pollutants, providing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional remediation practices (Yang et al., 2023).

This method encompasses various techniques tailored to different pollutants, including phytoextraction, phytostabilization, and phytovolatilization. Particularly, phytoextraction is a significant mechanism for removing heavy metals from contaminated areas, which can create economic benefits through phytomining (Bharagava et al., 2020). Factors influencing the efficiency of phytoextraction include the bioconcentration factor and translocation factor, which respectively indicate metal accumulation and translocation within plants. Enhancers such as chelators and soil amendments can enhance the efficiency of phytoextraction by increasing metal accessibility and reducing toxicity (Saxena et al., 2019).

Ramzan et al. (Ramzan et al., 2024) conducted a study on the tolerance and phytoremediation potential of Helianthus annuus, Zea mays, and Brassica juncea in heavy metal-contaminated soil sourced from the Lyari River. Their results indicated that all three experimental crops exhibited enhanced germination and growth in the contaminated soil compared to uncontaminated soil. Zea mays displayed superior resistance to heavy metal pollution, while sunflower and mustard demonstrated significant absorption of copper in their stems, suggesting high bioaccumulation factors. Moreover, maize and sunflower showed higher iron storage, while all cultivated species exhibited efficient rhizome storage with transfer factors less than 1. Overall, maize was identified as the most resistant plant to heavy metals, while sunflower was recognized as the best hyperaccumulator.

Lee et al. (Lee et al., 2023) investigated the long-term phytoremediation characteristics of Festuca arundinacea in diesel- and heavy metal-contaminated soil over a period of 571 days. They observed that tall fescue efficiently absorbed cadmium, with a bioconcentration factor of 0.58. The study also revealed distinct bacterial communities associated with petroleum hydrocarbon degradation and heavy metal tolerance. Furthermore, correlation analysis indicated that soil pH and organic content significantly influenced pollutant concentrations, while ambient temperature did not notably impact phytoremediation performance.

Rhizofiltration is a biological process used to purify surface water and groundwater through the use of plant roots. In this process, plants absorb and remove harmful substances in water using their roots; fertilizers and bacteria play a very important role in the rhizofiltration technique (Bakshe and Jugade, 2023). Waseem et al. (Waseem et al., 2024) explored the rhizofiltration potential of Helianthus annuus in industrially contaminated soils containing heavy metals. Their experiment included three concentrations of contaminated soil amended with compost, along with bacterial treatments. After sixty days, sunflower plants inoculated with Stutzerimonas stutzeri and Pseudomonas sundara exhibited increased plant height, biomass, pigment levels (including chlorophyll a, b, and carotenoids), and protein content. Additionally, there was a notable increase in antioxidant activity (e.g., catalase, peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase) and a decrease in hydrogen peroxide content in plants inoculated with these bacteria. Moreover, the bacterial treatments facilitated the uptake of heavy metals (cadmium, chromium, and lead) by the sunflower plants. Liu et al. (Liu et al., 2024) investigated the impact of bio-organic fertilizer on enhancing phytoremediation efficiency of heavy metals-contaminated saline soil. They found that the application of bio-organic fertilizer resulted in a significant increase in biomass (from 150.87 % to 401.58 %) and improvement in the accumulation of heavy metals (from 87.50 % to 410.54 %) and salts (from 38.27 % to 271.04 %) in Medicago sativa. Khilji et al. (Khilji et al., 2024) utilized African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) as a phytoremediator. In a pot experiment, marigold plants were grown in pots with three different concentrations (0 %, 5 %, and 10 %) of contaminated soil, supplemented with organic fertilizer (2 %) in all pots. Additionally, three types of bacteria, namely Co, Stutzerimonas stutzeri, and Pseudomonas sundara, were applied. After sixty days, the results showed that inoculation with Stutzerimonas stutzeri and Pseudomonas sundara increased the height and weight of African marigold plants compared to the control group. These bacteria also increased pigment levels, protein content, and water availability in the plants. Furthermore, the bacteria enhanced antioxidants such as melatonin, catalase, peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and proline, reducing oxidative stress. Moreover, plants treated with Stutzerimonas stutzeri and Pseudomonas sundara absorbed higher concentrations of heavy metals (chromium, cadmium, and lead) in their various parts.

Recent studies in the field of phytoremediation have shown that the use of plants and bacteria can significantly improve the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils. In particular, plants such as maize and sunflower have been recognized as effective options for absorbing and removing heavy metals, while bacteria can accelerate the phytoremediation process. The use of enhancer methods such as organic fertilizers and bacterial inoculation enhances the plants' ability to absorb and remediate contaminants. These studies demonstrate that phytoremediation can be an effective solution for cleaning up heavy metal-contaminated environments and contributing to soil quality improvement and environmental preservation.

6

6 Innovative solutions for heavy metal ion pollution control

6.1

6.1 Innovative strategies for mining waste management

The management of mining waste and its rehabilitation are considered vital components of sustainable mining practices due to their significant environmental and economic impacts (Benkirane et al., 2023; Yin et al., 2024). Through proper management of mining waste, negative environmental effects such as air and water pollution and loss of biodiversity are minimized. Rehabilitation involves the recycling of materials, reducing the consumption of natural resources, and providing economic opportunities. These approaches are essential for preserving the environment and enhancing economic efficiency, forming the foundation for sustainable mining (Borden et al., 2022). Due to the complex chemical and physical composition of these wastes, the processes of their management, disposal, or recycling present inherent difficulties (Gauthier et al., 2021). Additionally, addressing the environmental impacts and extracting value from mining waste necessitates investments in advanced technologies and extensive research. The establishment of effective standards and regulations is also essential to ensure that mining waste management is conducted in a sustainable and value-added manner.

Khandani et al. (Khandani et al., 2023) addressed the possibility of using construction and demolition waste (CDW) materials in the mining industry for sustainable development. Through necessary experiments and analyses, the results demonstrated that by utilizing a mixture of recycled CDW materials and Portland cement, it is feasible to produce backfill materials with desirable mechanical and physical properties for mining applications. Among the strategies employed to enhance the characteristics of the backfill materials were the removal of detrimental components from the recycled materials such as gypsum, along with an increase in cement content in the mixture. These strategies not only contribute to improving the properties of backfill materials but also can be effective in promoting sustainable development in the mining industry by reducing the consumption of natural resources and waste generation.

Wang et al. (Wang et al., 2023) have addressed the critical issue of recycling and managing mine tailings for sustainable development in their review article. With a focus on Pb-Zn mine tailings, they investigated the utilization of municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWIFA) and ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBFS) for solidification and stabilization, leading to the production of unfired bricks. Through their research, they demonstrated that this approach not only effectively immobilizes heavy metals present in the tailings but also produces bricks with satisfactory mechanical properties and environmental performance. By forming hydration products such as ettringite and portlandite, the bricks exhibit enhanced physical strength while meeting relevant regulatory limits for heavy metal leaching. Furthermore, the substitution of cement with MSWIFA and GGBFS in the stabilization process not only reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions but also offers economic benefits.

Huang et al. (Huang et al., 2024) present a zero-carbon processing method for stabilizing hazardous mine tailings (HMTs) using waste rice husk ashes (RHAs) and carbide slag (CS) in specific ratios, focusing on Pb-Zn tailings. The resulting solid materials exhibit good adhesive strength and mechanical properties, with reduced leaching toxicity concentrations of heavy metals Pb, Zn, Cr, and Cd. Transformation mechanisms involve the formation of C-S-H gels (Types I and II), cation hydroxides, and CO2 mineralization. Cations are predominantly immobilized as residual compounds, with diffusion coefficients falling within acceptable ranges, ensuring effective stabilization against leaching.

Long et al. (Long et al., 2024) investigated the transformation behavior of heavy metals during the co-thermal treatment of hazardous waste incineration fly ash (HWIFA) and Fe-containing hazardous waste (including hazardous waste incineration bottom slag (HWIBS) and electroplating sludge (ES)). The study demonstrated that this treatment effectively reduced the static leaching toxicity of Cr and Pb. At temperatures exceeding 1000 °C, the co-thermal treated samples showed low concentrations of dynamically leached Cr, Pb, and Zn, indicating successful detoxification. Thermodynamic analyses and phase transformation results indicated that spinel formation and the gradual disappearance of chromium dioxide in the presence of Fe-containing hazardous wastes contributed to chromium solidification. Efficient detoxification of Pb and Zn was attributed to their volatilization and entry into the liquid phase during co-thermal treatment.

Li et al. (Li and Shimaoka, 2024) proposed an environmentally friendly process for recovering zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) from municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash through ammonium chloride leaching and ammonia removal. The leaching process selectively extracted Zn and Cu with impressive recovery rates of 54.39 % and 86.23 %, respectively. Subsequent ammonia removal from the leachate yielded recovery rates of 95.99 % for Zn and 98.90 % for Cu. The overall recovery rates of Zn and Cu from fly ash reached 52.21 % and 85.28 %, respectively. The recovered precipitate contained significant concentrations of Zn (33.62 %) and Cu (14.19 %), making it suitable for metal smelting. Additionally, the process led to a considerable reduction in fly ash mass and chlorine content, enhancing its potential for use in construction materials and cement production.

Zeng et al. (Zeng et al., 2024) successfully processed low-quality Pb-Zn oxide mine tailings at the Lanping mine using a carbon thermal reduction method based on the RHF furnace. This method effectively separates Zn and Pb from gangue materials and reduces sulfur fixation efficiency, mitigating SO2 emissions. Through thermal analysis, it was observed that CaO facilitates the conversion of metal sulfides to oxides at temperatures above 1000 °C. Optimal conditions, including a temperature of 1250 °C, a reaction time of 30 min, and the addition of 20 % thermal coal in ambient air, achieved Zn and Pb evaporation rates exceeding 98 % and 96 %, respectively. The resulting ZnO dust, with a purity of 83 %, is suitable for subsequent hydrometallurgical extraction.

Hu et al. (Hu et al., 2024) developed a method for producing lightweight aggregates with enhanced CO2 adsorption and mineralization capabilities by incorporating multi-source industrial solid waste and porous materials. The study investigated the effectiveness of utilizing fly ash, desulfurization gypsum, coal gangue, blast furnace slag, and steel slag to enhance the performance of aggregates. Results indicated a 20 % reduction in water absorption rate and a 49.1 % increase in mechanical strength with the incorporation of these mining wastes. Throughout the carbonization curing process, CO2 absorption consistently exceeded 20 %, attributed to the synergistic effects of the solid waste, which improved physical properties such as bulk density and mechanical strength. Addition of porous materials such as diatomite and zeolite further augmented porosity and enhanced CO2 absorption to 26.3 %.

Tang et al. (Tang and Steenari, 2016) focused on developing sustainable mining practices. They conducted a comprehensive review aiming to optimize the leaching process of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash for resource recovery, with a particular focus on Cu, Zn, Pb, and Cd. Their study explored various leaching agents and parameters, such as acid type, pH, temperature, time, and liquid-to-solid ratio. Results indicated that hydrochloric acid was particularly effective for extracting Cu and Zn, with high yields achieved within 24 h at controlled pH levels. Additionally, efficient removal of hazardous metals like Pb and Cd was observed. However, leaching of bottom ash proved challenging due to gel formation, highlighting the need for alternative methods for metal recovery from this fraction. This research contributes to advancing sustainable mining practices by exploring innovative solutions for metal recovery from waste materials, thereby reducing environmental impact and promoting resource conservation.

Xu et al. (Xu et al., 2024) focused on sustainable mining development by addressing the challenges posed by metallurgical solid wastes. Through their review article, they highlighted the application of the coal-based direct reduction-magnetic separation (CBDRMS) process for recycling high-iron-content non-ferrous metallurgical wastes. By optimizing this method, they aimed to extract valuable resources from these wastes, mitigating environmental risks associated with disposal and contributing to resource conservation. Their research underscores the importance of innovative approaches in waste management to foster a circular economy within the metallurgical sector.

These research findings collectively underscore the importance of innovative strategies for sustainable mining waste management, emphasizing resource recovery, environmental performance, and the transition towards a circular economy within the mining industry.

6.2

6.2 Green chemistry and sustainable practices in the mining industry

Green chemistry and sustainable approaches in the mining industry have gained increased significance due to their crucial role in environmental preservation and responsiveness to the global community's need for sustainable resource utilization (Bilo et al., 2024). Green chemistry serves as a technological and environmental paradigm in the production of chemical materials, emphasizing reduced energy consumption in its processes and the use of recycled or renewable raw materials (Cameron et al., 2021). In mining, these approaches signify pollution reduction, process optimization, and energy consumption reduction. The adoption of sustainable technologies, such as the bio-based extraction of metals from low-grade materials or the utilization of renewable energy in mining processes, not only mitigates the environmental impacts of mining but also contributes to resource efficiency (Zhang et al., 2023). These transformations not only contribute to environmental conservation but also enable the mining industry to address challenges arising from resource constraints, positioning itself as a sustainable and responsible branch meeting the needs of society.

By implementing various measures, sustainable approaches in the mining industry play a fundamental role in reducing environmental impacts and optimizing operations (Valenzuela-Elgueta et al., 2021). These measures include utilizing biotechnologies for metal extraction or pollutant removal, implementing smart waste management through intelligent systems, relying on renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency in mining processes, effective use of water resources, developing recycling technologies, and managing the safety and sustainability of mine waste (Zhu et al., 2012). These actions not only contribute to improving environmental conditions but also contribute to establishing more sustainable structures in the mining industry and addressing the needs of society (Guo et al., 2022). The use of biotechnologies, smart waste organization, emphasis on renewable energy, and attention to water resource efficiency are highlighted aspects of these approaches. These initiatives move towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly mining community while aiding in increased efficiency and economic benefits (Brown et al., 2023).

Mining operations employ various measures with the aim of enhancing energy efficiency and mitigating environmental impacts. These initiatives encompass the utilization of smart mining technologies equipped with sensors for precise data collection, contributing to the optimization of energy consumption and mining processes. Additionally, the incorporation of intelligent and automated machinery, enhanced with artificial intelligence and automation technologies, ensures more energy-efficient operations (Song et al., 2023). Optimizing processes and equipment further results in a significant reduction in energy consumption within mining operations. The adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind energy, plays a crucial role in increasing sustainability and minimizing environmental effects in the mining industry (Cabello, 2021). Concurrently, the recycling and reuse of energy, process and equipment improvements, and the integration of sustainable technologies are key actions taken to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impacts in mining operations.

To implement innovative approaches widely in the mining industry, various initiatives can be undertaken. Establishing robust research and development (R&D) departments with the aim of inventing new technologies in areas such as waste management, energy efficiency, and mineral extraction is a primary priority. Encouraging collaboration among different entities, including government, industry, universities, and research institutions, fosters the sharing of successful experiences and insights within the mining sector (Tang et al., 2023). Creating financial facilities with favorable conditions and promoting awareness within the industry about the significance and benefits of innovative approaches are also key measures. To successfully execute these approaches, formulating standards and regulations based on safety, environmental protection, and economic sustainability is essential. Furthermore, training employees and enhancing their motivation to actively participate in innovative projects are effective actions in this regard (Zhang and Schippers, 2022). Leveraging social networks for the exchange of information and experiences can facilitate collaboration among industry stakeholders and improve the process of implementing innovative approaches in the mining sector (Halinen et al., 2012).

6.3

6.3 Use of artificial intelligence (AI)

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in addressing lead and zinc soil contamination around mines can bring about significant improvements in monitoring and remediation efforts. The outlined approaches demonstrate how AI technologies can enhance various aspects of pollution control:

Predictive Modeling: AI can leverage predictive modeling to analyze a multitude of factors, including geological characteristics, mining activities, and weather conditions. By doing so, it can predict the likelihood of soil contamination in different areas around mines. These predictive models enable the identification of high-risk zones, allowing for more focused and efficient allocation of resources for monitoring and remediation (Gautam et al., 2023).

Monitoring: AI-powered sensors and drones can provide real-time data on soil quality. These technologies can cover large areas quickly and efficiently, offering a comprehensive overview of the soil conditions. Machine learning algorithms can then analyze the collected data, identifying patterns associated with pollution. This allows for early detection and timely intervention to prevent the escalation of soil contamination (Wang et al., 2019).

Optimization of Remediation Efforts: AI can contribute to the optimization of remediation strategies by analyzing extensive datasets related to soil characteristics and the effectiveness of various remediation methods. Machine learning algorithms can determine the most suitable and efficient remediation approach for a specific site, considering factors such as soil composition, topography, and the success rates of different methods in similar conditions (Peng et al., 2023).

Cost-Effective Solutions: The targeted and data-driven approach facilitated by AI can lead to more cost-effective solutions. By focusing resources on areas identified as high-risk and tailoring remediation strategies to specific site conditions, the overall efficiency of pollution control efforts is improved. AI's ability to analyze large datasets quickly and accurately also contributes to cost savings compared to traditional manual methods (Ji et al., 2022).

Building and implementing artificial intelligence (AI) systems involves a variety of software tools, frameworks, and libraries. The specific tools required can vary depending on the task, domain, and programming language preferences. Some key categories of software tools commonly used in AI development include programming languages such as Python (widely used for its simplicity and extensive libraries like NumPy, pandas, TensorFlow, and PyTorch) and R (commonly used for statistical analysis and machine learning). In the realm of AI frameworks and libraries, TensorFlow, developed by Google, stands out as an open-source machine learning framework, alongside PyTorch, an open-source library by Facebook known for its dynamic computational graph. Keras is often utilized as a high-level neural networks API that runs on top of TensorFlow or other backend engines, while Scikit-learn serves as a machine learning library for classical algorithms like regression, classification, and clustering (Ji et al., 2023; Pouyanfar et al., 2022).

Deep learning tools like CUDA and cuDNN provide GPU-accelerated computing for deep neural networks, and MXNet is a flexible and efficient deep learning library supporting multiple programming languages. For data processing and analysis, essential libraries include NumPy and pandas in Python, while Apache Spark proves useful for distributed data processing. Natural Language Processing (NLP) tools, such as NLTK and spaCy, cater to tasks involving human language data. Computer vision tasks are supported by OpenCV, a comprehensive library offering tools for image and video processing (Bhagat et al., 2022).

Version control is a system that manages changes made to files and code over time, allowing tracking and reverting to previous versions. Version control is ensured through Git, which is essential for tracking changes in code and facilitating collaboration. Popular integrated development environments (IDEs) like Jupyter Notebooks, PyCharm, VSCode, or Atom are utilized for interactive computing and Python development (Bhagat et al., 2022). Cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud provide infrastructure and services for training and deploying AI models. Containerization is a technology that packages software code and its dependencies into a standardized unit called a container to simplify and make software execution more portable. Containerization is made possible by Docker, enabling the creation and deployment of containerized applications, while Kubernetes orchestrates containerized applications, providing scalability and automation. These tools collectively support various stages of AI development, spanning data preprocessing, model training, deployment, and monitoring, with the choice of tools depending on the specific requirements and preferences of the development team.

7

7 Conclusion and future directions

The mining industry plays a crucial role in soil contamination with ions of lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper. Mining activities, product processing, waste management, and atmospheric deposits are the primary sources of contamination. These pollutants have extensive effects on soil, water, plants, wildlife, and human health. To address this issue, effective monitoring and assessment are essential to comprehend the precise dimensions of the problem and present necessary strategies for reduction and remediation. While traditional soil purification methods, such as physical, chemical, and biological approaches, have limitations, the utilization of emerging technologies and approaches is imperative for pollution control. The mining industry is progressively embracing green chemistry and sustainable practices to diminish environmental impacts and enhance efforts in addressing the issue. In general, managing pollution with ions of lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper is vital for preserving both human health and the environment.

The political and legal implications of this matter are significant due to the widespread effects of pollution with ions of lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper near mining areas. Governments and regulatory bodies must implement and enforce stricter environmental standards and more effective regulations to prevent pollution from mining activities. This includes enhancing waste management methods, employing gas control technologies, and establishing more efficient mechanisms for monitoring and enforcement. Furthermore, increased financial support for research into innovative techniques and methods for pollution control and remediation is necessary.

Future research should focus on the development of innovative technologies for mitigating and remediating pollution with ions of lead, zinc, manganese, iron, and copper. This involves the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive modeling and risk assessment, as well as advancements in more sustainable and environmentally friendly mining practices. Further research is needed to understand the long-term health effects of exposure to these ions, especially in vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. Finally, research is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of various pollution control and remediation strategies in different environmental and socioeconomic contexts.

CRediT authorship contribution statement

Atoosa Haghighizadeh: Data curation, Methodology. Omid Rajabi: Data curation, Software. Arman Nezarat: Data curation, Methodology, Project administration, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. Zahra Hajyani: Data curation, Funding acquisition, Methodology, Project administration, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. Mina Haghmohammadi: Conceptualization, Data curation, Software, Validation, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. Soheila Hedayatikhah: Conceptualization, Data curation, Resources. Soheila Delnabi Asl: Conceptualization, Data curation, Resources, Software, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. Ali Aghababai Beni: Conceptualization, Data curation, Funding acquisition, Methodology, Project administration, Supervision, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing.

Declaration of competing interest

The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.

References

  1. , , , , , , , , , . Hazardous effects of road-side soils on the redox and cholinesterasic homeostasis of mound-building termite (cornitermes cumulans) Sci. Total Environ.. 2022;815:152841
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  2. , , , . Life cycle assessment of the MBT plant in ano liossia, Athens. Greece. Waste Manag.. 2012;32:213-219.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  3. , . Remote sensing applications : society and environment PlanetScope contributions compared to Sentinel-2, and Landsat-8 for LULC mapping. Remote Sens. Appl. Soc. Environ.. 2022;27:100774
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  4. , . Soil elemental concentrations, geoaccumulation index, non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks in functional areas of an informal e-waste recycling area in Accra, Ghana. Chemosphere. 2019;235:908-917.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  5. , , , , . Assessing spatial distribution, potential ecological and human health risks of soil heavy metals contamination around a Trailer Park in Nigeria. Sci. African. 2020;10:e00650.
    [Google Scholar]
  6. , , , , , . Heavy metal, waste, COVID-19, and rapid industrialization in this modern era—Fit for Sustainable future. Sustainability. 2022;14:4746.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  7. , , , , , , , . Heavy metals pollution from smelting activities: a threat to soil and groundwater. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2024;274:116189
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  8. , , , , , , , , . Potential health risk assessment for heavy metals in tilapia fish of different spatiotemporal monitoring patterns in kafr el-shaikh and el-faiyum governorates of Egypt. Toxicol. Reports. 2023;10:487-497.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  9. , , , , , , , , . Differential bioaccumulations and ecotoxicological impacts of metal-oxide nanoparticles, bulk materials, and metal-ions in cucumbers grown in sandy clay loam soil. Environ. Pollut.. 2021;289:117854
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  10. , , , , , . Identification of mining waste using remote sensing technique: a case study in el Triunfo town, BCS. México. Remote Sens. Appl. Soc. Environ.. 2021;22
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  11. , , , , . Environmental risk assessment in selected dumpsites in Abakaliki metropolis, Ebonyi state, southeastern Nigeria. Environ. Challenges. 2021;4:100143
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  12. , , , . Ecological informatics modeling of migratory beekeeper behaviors with machine learning approach using meteorological and environmental variables : the case of Turkey. Ecol. Inform.. 2021;66:101470
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  13. , , , , , , , , , , . Evolution of the Kiruna-type gol-e-Gohar iron ore district, Sanandaj-Sirjan zone. Iran. Ore Geol. Rev.. 2020;127:103787
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  14. , , , , . Accumulation of heavy metals in autochthonous plants around bagega artisanal gold Mining Village and the remediation potential of selected plants. Acta Ecol. Sin. 2023
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  15. , , , , . The role of edaphic variables and management practices in regulating soil microbial resilience to drought - a meta-analysis. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;912:169544
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  16. , , , , , , . Synthesis of mesoporous silica and chitosan-coated magnetite nanoparticles for heavy metal adsorption from wastewater. Environ. Nanotechnology, Monit. Manag.. 2023;20:100801
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  17. , , , , , . A review on the use of lichens as a biomonitoring tool for environmental radioactivity. J. Environ. Radioact.. 2022;243
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  18. , , , , , , , , . U-Pb zircon-titanite-apatite age constraints on basin development and basin inversion in the Kiruna mining district. Sweden. Precambrian Res.. 2022;372:106613
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  19. , , . Commodity price and fatalities in mining – evidence from copper regions in Chile. Resour. Policy. 2023;82:103489
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  20. , , , . Characterization of microseepage-induced diagenetic changes in the upper- red formation, Qom region, Iran. Part I : outcrop, geochemical, and remote sensing studies. Mar. Pet. Geol.. 2020;117:104149
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  21. , , , , , , , , , , , , . Highly variable content of fluorapatite-hosted CO32−in the upper cretaceous/paleogene phosphorites (Morocco) and implications for paleodepositional conditions. Chem. Geol.. 2022;597
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  22. , , , , , . Evaluation of E-waste materials linked potential consequences to environment in India. Environ. Technol. Innov.. 2022;28:102477
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  23. , , , , , , , , , , . Spatial distribution and risk assessment of heavy metals in soil near a Pb/Zn smelter in Feng County. China. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2017;139:254-262.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  24. , , , , , . Predicting heavy metal contents by applying machine learning approaches and environmental covariates in west of Iran. J. Geochemical Explor.. 2022;233:106921
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  25. , , , , . Characteristics of nitrate and heavy metals pollution in Huixian wetland and its health risk assessment. Alexandria Eng. J.. 2022;61:9031-9042.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  26. , , , , , . Delineation of leachate plume migration and appraisal of heavy metals in groundwater around emirin dumpsite, ado-Ekiti Nigeria. Sci. African. 2022;17:e01308.
    [Google Scholar]
  27. , , , , , , , . Smelter-derived soil contamination in Luanshya. Zambia. Sci. Total Environ.. 2023;867:161405
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  28. , , . Phytostabilization and rhizofiltration of toxic heavy metals by heavy metal accumulator plants for sustainable management of contaminated industrial sites: a comprehensive review. J. Hazard. Mater. Adv.. 2023;10:100293
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  29. Bakshi, S., Banik, C., He, Z., 2018. The impact of heavy metal contamination on soil health. pp. 63–96. doi: 10.19103/AS.2017.0033.20.
  30. , , , , . Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy for strength assessment in Ca binded soils. Spectrochim. Acta Part B at. Spectrosc.. 2023;206:106726
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  31. , , , . Assessment of recent and chalcolithic period environmental pollution using Mytilus galloprovincialis Lamarck, 1819 from Yarimburgaz cave, the northern Marmara Sea and Bosphorus coasts. Oceanologia. 2016;58:135-149.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  32. , , , . Strength and microstructure of cemented paste backfill modified with nano-silica particles and cured under non-isothermal conditions. Powder Technol.. 2023;419:118311
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  33. , , , , , , , , . Integrative artificial intelligence models for australian coastal sediment lead prediction: an investigation of in-situ measurements and meteorological parameters effects. J. Environ. Manage.. 2022;309:114711
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  34. Bharagava, R.N., Saxena, G. (Eds.), 2020. Bioremediation of Industrial Waste for Environmental Safety. Springer Singapore, Singapore. doi: 10.1007/978-981-13-3426-9.
  35. Bharagava, R.N., Saxena, G., Mulla, S.I., 2020. Introduction to Industrial Wastes Containing Organic and Inorganic Pollutants and Bioremediation Approaches for Environmental Management, in: Bioremediation of Industrial Waste for Environmental Safety. Springer Singapore, Singapore, pp. 1–18. doi: 10.1007/978-981-13-1891-7_1.
  36. , , , , , . Techno-economic and environmental assessment of decentralized pyrolysis for crop residue management: rice and wheat cultivation system in India. J. Clean. Prod.. 2022;367:132998
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  37. , , , , , , . Spatial distribution of arsenic and metals suggest a high ecotoxicological potential in Puno Bay, Lake Titicaca. Peru. Sci. Total Environ.. 2023;871
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  38. , , , . Elemental analysis of particulate matter by X-ray fluorescence methods: a green approach to air quality monitoring. TrAC Trends Anal. Chem.. 2024;170:117427
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  39. , , , , , , , . Characteristics, correlations and health risks of PCDD/Fs and heavy metals in surface soil near municipal solid waste incineration plants in Southwest China. Environ. Pollut.. 2022;298:118816
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  40. , , , , . Reinvention through regreening: examining environmental change in Sudbury. Ontario. Extr. Ind. Soc.. 2016;3:793-801.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  41. , , , , , . Utilization of inorganic industrial wastes in producing construction ceramics. review of russian experience for the years 2000–2015. Waste Manag.. 2017;60:230-246.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  42. , , , . Geochemical and hydrological evolution of mine impacted waters at the argyle diamond mine. Western Australia. Appl. Geochemistry. 2022;139:105253
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  43. , , , , , , . Development of a terrestrial vertebrate model for assessing bioavailability of cadmium in the fence lizard (Sceloporus undulatus) and in ovo effects on hatchling size and thyroid function. Chemosphere. 2004;54:1643-1651.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  44. , , , , . Current nature-based biological practices for rare earth elements extraction and recovery: bioleaching and biosorption. Renew. Sustain. Energy Rev.. 2023;173:113099
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  45. , . Lithium brine production, reserves, resources and exploration in Chile: an updated review. Ore Geol. Rev.. 2021;128
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  46. , , , , , . Stirred-tank bioleaching of nickel and cobalt from pyrrhotite-rich tailings from Sudbury. Ontario. Hydrometallurgy. 2021;204:105592
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  47. , , , , . The world’s electronic graveyard: what is the solution to Ghana’s e-waste dilemma? World Dev. Perspect.. 2022;26:100433
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  48. , , , , , . Biomolecular insights into the inhibition of heavy metals on reductive dechlorination of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol in Pseudomonas sp. CP-1. Water Res.. 2023;247:120836
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  49. , , , , , , , , . Source identification of pollution and health risks to metals in household indoor and outdoor dust: a cross-sectional study in a typical mining town. China. Environ. Pollut.. 2022;293:118551
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  50. , , , , , . Dietary risk of milk contaminated with lead and cadmium in areas near mining-metallurgical industries in the Central Andes of Peru. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2021;220
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  51. , , , , , , , . Well water contaminated by acidic mine water from the dabaoshan mine, South China: chemistry and toxicity. Chemosphere. 2007;70:248-255.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  52. , , , , , , . Arc magmatic evolution and porphyry copper deposit formation under compressional regime: a geochemical perspective from the toquepala arc in southern Peru. Earth-Science Rev.. 2023;240:104383
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  53. , , , , , , , . Delineating and identifying risk zones of soil heavy metal pollution in an industrialized region using machine learning ☆. Environ. Pollut.. 2023;318:120932
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  54. , , , , , , . A critical review on the migration and transformation processes of heavy metal contamination in lead-zinc tailings of China. Environ. Pollut.. 2023;338:122667
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  55. , , . REE redistribution during hydrothermal alteration of ores of the Kalahari Manganese deposit. Ore Geol. Rev.. 2012;47:126-135.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  56. , , , , , , , . Effects of fly ash and steel slag on cadmium and arsenic accumulation in rice grains and soil health: a field study over four crop seasons in Guangdong. China. Geoderma. 2022;419:115879
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  57. , . ESG risks to global platinum supply: a case study of Mogalakwena mine. South Africa. Resour. Policy. 2023;85:104054
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  58. Cook, A., Finkelman, R.B., Fourie, A., 2019. Mineral and fuel extraction: Health consequences, Second Edi. ed, Encyclopedia of Environmental Health. Elsevier 10.1016/B978-0-12-409548-9.11675-6.
  59. , , , , , , , , . Profiles of antibiotic resistome and microbial community in groundwater of CKDu prevalence zones in Sri Lanka. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2021;403:123816
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  60. , , , , . Measuring the social license to operate of the mining industry in an amazonian town: a case study of Canaã dos Carajás. Brazil. Resour. Policy. 2021;74
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  61. , , , , , , , , , , , . Hyperspectral imagery reveals large spatial variations of heavy metal content in agricultural soil - a case study of remote-sensing inversion based on Orbita hyperspectral satellites (OHS) imagery. J. Clean. Prod.. 2022;380:134878
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  62. , , , . Technological trends, emerging applications and metallurgical strategies in antimony recovery from stibnite. Miner. Eng.. 2022;175:107304
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  63. , , , . Identification of factors controlling heavy metals/metalloid distribution in agricultural soils using multi-source data. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2023;253:114689
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  64. , , , , . Ecotoxicological consequences of manganese mining pollutants and their biological remediation. Environ. Chem. Ecotoxicol.. 2023;5:55-61.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  65. , , , . Oyu tolgoi—New major copper producer in Mongolia. Discov. Oyu Tolgoi. 2019;199–201
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  66. , , , . Drought-free future climate conditions enhance cadmium phytoremediation capacity by Brassica napus through improved physiological status. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2023;452:131181
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  67. , , , . Ultrasonic treatment of high phosphorus australian iron ore fines. Miner. Eng.. 2022;189:107914
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  68. , , , , , , . In situ mycoremediation of acid rain and heavy metals co-contaminated soil through microbial inoculation with Pleurotus ostreatus. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;912:169020
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  69. , , , , , , , . The 2.1 Ga-old injectite network of the Franceville Basin, Gabon: architecture, origin and implications on manganese mineralization. Precambrian Res.. 2017;302:255-278.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  70. T., N.P.D., S., K., 2024. Investigation study data to develop sustainable concrete mix using waste materials as constituents. Data Br. 52, 109837. doi: 10.1016/j.dib.2023.109837.
  71. , , , , , , . Factors influencing lead, mercury and other trace element exposure in birds from metal mining areas. Environ. Res.. 2022;212
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  72. , , . Mapping precarious energy geographies: exploring the lived experience of coal mining in Jharia. India. Energy Res. Soc. Sci.. 2021;82:102298
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  73. , , . Influence of carbon sequestration in natural clay on engineering properties of cement-lime stabilized soil mortars. Dev. Built Environ.. 2023;16:100270
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  74. , , , , , . Barite as an industrial mineral in Nigeria: occurrence, utilization, challenges and future prospects. Heliyon. 2021;7:e07365.
    [Google Scholar]
  75. , , , , , , , . Soil heavy metal contamination in the vicinity of the abandoned zeïda mine in the upper Moulouya Basin, Morocco. implications for airborne dust pollution under semi-arid climatic conditions. J. African Earth Sci.. 2023;198
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  76. , , , , , , , , , . West african e-waste-soil assessed with a battery of cell-based bioassays. Sci. Total Environ.. 2023;856
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  77. , , , , , , . Iron and sulphur isotopes from the Carajás mining province (Pará, Brazil): implications for the oxidation of the ocean and the atmosphere across the archaean-proterozoic transition. Chem. Geol.. 2011;289:124-139.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  78. , , , , , . Synthesis of mesoporous silica and chitosan-coated magnetite nanoparticles for heavy metal adsorption from wastewater. Environ. Nanotechnology, Monit. Manag.. 2023;20:100801
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  79. , , , , , , . Underestimated heavy metal pollution of the Minjiang River, SE China: evidence from spatial and seasonal monitoring of suspended-load sediments. Sci. Total Environ.. 2021;760:142586
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  80. , , , , , . A comparative study on solidification/stabilization characteristics of coal fly ash-based geopolymer and Portland cement on heavy metals in MSWI fly ash. J. Clean. Prod.. 2021;319:128790
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  81. , , , , . Investigation of health and ecological risk attributed to the soil heavy metals in Iran: systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci. Total Environ.. 2023;857:158925
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  82. , , . Arsenic hyperaccumulating fern: implications for remediation of arsenic contaminated soils. Geoderma. 2016;284:132-143.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  83. , , , , , . Dynamics of vertical vanadium migration in soil and interactions with indigenous microorganisms adjacent to tailing reservoir. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2022;424:127608
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  84. , , , , , , , . Environmental and human-health risks of as in soils with abnormal arsenic levels located in irrigated agricultural areas of Paracatu (MG) Brazil. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2021;226
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  85. , , , , , , , , . Migration patterns of heavy metals from solid waste stockpile soils by native plants for ecological restoration in arid and semi-arid regions of Northwest China. Environ. Res.. 2024;251:118607
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  86. , , . An integrated analysis of air pollution from US coal-fired power plants. Geosci. Front.. 2023;14:101498
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  87. , , , , . Developmental origins of adult diseases and neurotoxicity: epidemiological and experimental studies. Neurotoxicology. 2012;33:810-816.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  88. , , , , , , , . Serpentine soils affect heavy metal tolerance but not genetic diversity in a common Mediterranean ant. Chemosphere. 2017;180:326-334.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  89. , , , , , , , . Interplay of metals and bromine with dioxin-related compounds concentrated in e-waste open burning soil from agbogbloshie in Accra. Ghana. Environ. Pollut.. 2016;209:155-163.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  90. , , , , , . Nanomaterials-modified disposable electrodes and portable electrochemical systems for heavy metals detection in wastewater streams: a review. Microchem. J.. 2023;193:109043
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  91. , , , , , , , , , , . A review on control and abatement of soil pollution by heavy metals: emphasis on artificial intelligence in recovery of contaminated soil. Environ. Res.. 2023;225:115592
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  92. , , , , , , , . Environmental risk of nickel in aquatic Arctic ecosystems. Sci. Total Environ.. 2021;797:148921
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  93. , , , , , , . The valorisation of platinum group metals from flotation tailings: a review of challenges and opportunities. Miner. Eng.. 2023;201:108216
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  94. , , , , . Spatio-temporal variations of metals in groundwater from an iron mining impacted area: assessing sources and human health risk. Total Environ. Res. Themes. 2023;8:100070
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  95. Goodarzi, R., Beirami, B.A., Sahebi, M.R., Mokhtarzade, M., 2023. ScienceDirect Evaluation of regression models ’ accuracy for estimating soil heavy metals content from topographic rectified satellite imagery (Case study : Irankouh from Iran). Adv. Sp. Res. doi: 10.1016/j.asr.2023.03.025.
  96. , , , , , , , , . Potential arsenic–chromium–lead Co-contamination in the hilly terrain of Arunachal Pradesh, north-eastern India: genesis and health perspective. Chemosphere. 2023;323:138067
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  97. , , , , . Vermi-converted tea industry coal ash efficiently substitutes chemical fertilization for growth and yield of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) in an alluvial soil: a field-based study on soil quality, nutrient translocation, and metal-risk remedia. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;907:168088
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  98. , , , . Road base materials prepared by multi-industrial solid wastes in China: a review. Constr. Build. Mater.. 2023;373:130860
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  99. , , , , . Molten salt electrolysis of spent nickel-based superalloys with liquid cathode for the selective separation of nickel. Sep. Purif. Technol.. 2022;302:122168
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  100. , , , , , , , , . Heavy metal pollution near an abandoned mercury-bearing waste recovery enterprise in southwestern China: spatial distribution and its sources in soil and plants. Environ. Res.. 2024;118694
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  101. , , , , , , , . Bioelectrochemical technologies for removal of xenobiotics from wastewater. Sustain. Energy Technol. Assessments. 2022;49:101652
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  102. , , , . Abandoned [formula presented] mining wastes and their mobility as proxy to toxicity: a review. Sci. Total Environ.. 2016;565:392-400.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  103. , , , , , , , , , , . Unlocking the secrets of soil microbes: how decades-long contamination and heavy metals accumulation from sewage water and industrial effluents shape soil biological health. Chemosphere. 2023;342:140193
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  104. , . Mineral exploration. Mineral Exploration 2018
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  105. , , , , , , , , . Microbial community dynamics during a demonstration-scale bioheap leaching operation. Hydrometallurgy. 2012;125–126:34-41.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  106. , , , , , , , . Meta-analysis of the effects of liming on soil pH and cadmium accumulation in crops. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2021;223:112621
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  107. , , , , , , . Polyamine-producing bacteria inhibit the absorption of cd by spinach and alter the bacterial community composition of rhizosphere soil. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2023;264:115442
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  108. , , , , , , , , , , , , . Potassium silicate alteration in porphyry copper-gold deposits: a case study at the giant maar-diatreme hosted grasberg deposit. Indonesia. J. Volcanol. Geotherm. Res.. 2022;432:107710
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  109. , , . Precipitated silica, alkali silicates and zeolites from construction and demolition waste materials. J. Clean. Prod.. 2022;348
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  110. , , , , , , , , . Soluble trace metals associated with atmospheric fine particulate matter in the two most populous cities in Vietnam. Atmos. Environ. X. 2022;15:100178
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  111. Holmes, R.J., Lu, Y., Lu, L., 2021. Introduction: Overview of the global iron ore industry, Iron Ore: Mineralogy, Processing and Environmental Sustainability. Elsevier Ltd. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-820226-5.00023-9.
  112. , , , , , , . Science of the total environment in fl uence of human impacts on trace metal accumulation in soils of two Hungarian cities. Sci. Total Environ.. 2018;637–638:1197-1208.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  113. , , , , , , . Modification of multi-source industrial solid waste with porous materials to produce highly polymerizeosilica gel: microstructure optimization and CO2 mineralization enhancement mechanism. Sep. Purif. Technol.. 2024;336:126225
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  114. , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Current status, spatial features, health risks, and potential driving factors of soil heavy metal pollution in China at province level. Environ. Pollut.. 2020;266:114961
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  115. , , , , , , , , . Revolutionizing soil heavy metal remediation: cutting-edge innovations in plant disposal technology. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;918:170577
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  116. , , , , , , . Microbial community assembly of the hyperaccumulator plant Sedum plumbizincicola in two contrasting soil types with three levels of cadmium contamination. Sci. Total Environ.. 2023;863:160917
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  117. , , , , , , . Zero-carbon inertization processes of hazardous mine tailings: mineral physicochemical properties, transformation mechanism, and long-term stability. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2024;469:133882
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  118. , , , . The impact of incineration phase-out on municipal solid waste landfilling and life cycle environmental performance: case study of Madrid. Spain. Sci. Total Environ.. 2021;755:142537
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  119. , , , , , , . Remediation of mine polluted soil with nano-enhanced materials: development of extreme learning machine approaches. Chemosphere. 2022;307:135772
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  120. , , , , , , . Application of nano remediation of mine polluted in acid mine drainage water using machine learning model. Chemosphere. 2023;311:136926
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  121. , , , , , . Ecological evolution during the three-year restoration using rhizosphere soil cover method at a Lead-zinc tailing pond in Karst areas. Sci. Total Environ.. 2022;853:158291
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  122. , , , . Assessment of radiation exposure levels at Alaba e-waste dumpsite in comparison with municipal waste dumpsites in southwest Nigeria. J. Radiat. Res. Appl. Sci.. 2014;7:536-541.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  123. , , , , . State of remediation and metal toxicity in the tri-state Mining District, USA. Chemosphere. 2016;144:1132-1141.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  124. , , , , , . Advanced mineral magnetic and geochemical investigations of road dusts for assessment of pollution in urban areas near the largest copper smelter in SE Europe. Sci. Total Environ.. 2021;792:148402
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  125. , , . A pilot study for oil refinery wastewater treatment using a fixed film bioreactor. Adv. Environ. Res.. 2003;7:463-469.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  126. , , , , , . Transfer of heavy metals from soil to tea and the potential human health risk in a regional high geochemical background area in southwest China. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;908:168122
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  127. , , . Streamflow duration curve to explain nutrient export in midwestern USA watersheds: implication for water quality achievements. SSRN Electron. J.. 2022;336:117598
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  128. , , , , . A review on heavy metal contamination at mining sites and remedial techniques. IOP Conf. Ser. Earth Environ. Sci.. 2021;796:012013
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  129. , , , , . Aged diesel and heavy metal pollution in the Arctic tundra (Yamal peninsula, Russia) Sci. Total Environ.. 2021;792:148471
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  130. , , , . Liming legacy effects associated with the world’s largest soil liming and regreening program in Sudbury, Ontario Canada. Sci. Total Environ.. 2022;805:150321
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  131. , , , , , , , , . Analysis of industrial symbiosis case studies and its potential in Saudi Arabia. J. Clean. Prod.. 2023;385:135536
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  132. , , . Land degradation neutrality concerns in Bangladesh. Soil Secur.. 2022;9:100075
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  133. , , , , . Environmental Technology & Innovation geo-statistical assessment of soil quality and identification of heavy metal contamination using integrated GIS and Multivariate statistical analysis in industrial region of Western India. Environ. Technol. Innov.. 2022;28:102646
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  134. , , , , . Geo-statistical assessment of soil quality and identification of heavy metal contamination using integrated GIS and Multivariate statistical analysis in industrial region of Western India. Environ. Technol. Innov.. 2022;28:102646
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  135. , , , , , , , , , . Elucidating the effects of heavy metals contamination on vital organ of fish and migratory birds found at fresh water ecosystem. Heliyon. 2023;9:e20968.
    [Google Scholar]
  136. , , , , . An experimental study on the mechanical properties of underground mining backfill materials obtained from recycling of construction and demolition waste. Case Stud. Constr. Mater.. 2023;18:e02046.
    [Google Scholar]
  137. , , , , , , , , . Microbe assisted phytoremediation of heavy metal contaminated soil by using african marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) Plant Stress. 2024;11:100369
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  138. , , . Ecological risk associated with agricultural production in soils contaminated by the activities of the metal ore mining and processing industry - example from southern Poland. Soil Tillage Res.. 2021;205
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  139. , , , , , . Underground burning of Jharia coal mine (India) and associated surface deformation using InSAR data. Int. J. Appl. Earth Obs. Geoinf.. 2021;103:102524
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  140. , , , , . Effects of treatment agents during acid washing and pH neutralization on the fertility of heavy metal-impacted dredged marine sediment as plant-growing soil. Environ. Pollut.. 2020;267:115466
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  141. , , . Biotechnological strategies to recover value from waste. Hydrometallurgy. 2023;222:106182
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  142. , , , , , , , , , , . Application of X-ray based modern instrumental techniques to determine the heavy metals in soils, minerals and organic media. Chemosphere. 2024;349:140782
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  143. Kitajima, N., 2018. Phytorecovery of Mine-Impacted Agricultural Land in Japan, Bio-Geotechnologies for Mine Site Rehabilitation. Elsevier Inc. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-812986-9.00025-7.
  144. , , , , , , . Urban climate evaluation of groundwater vulnerability using GIS-based DRASTIC model in greater Monrovia. Montserrado. Urban Clim.. 2023;48:101427
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  145. , , , , , , , . Effect of soil organic matter-mediated electron transfer on heavy metal remediation: current status and perspectives. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;917:170451
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  146. Kriti, Basant, N., Singh, J., Kumari, B., Sinam, G., Gautam, A., Singh, G., Swapnil, Mishra, K., Mallick, S., 2021. Nickel and cadmium phytoextraction efficiencies of vetiver and lemongrass grown on Ni–Cd battery waste contaminated soil: A comparative study of linear and nonlinear models. J. Environ. Manage. 295, 113144. doi: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113144.
  147. , , , . High resolution geophysical and geospatial mapping of quaternary sediments for exploration and assessment of groundwater in Ghaziabad district, Uttar Pradesh India. Groundw. Sustain. Dev.. 2021;14:100638
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  148. , , , , , , , , . A review on the clean-up technologies for heavy metal ions contaminated soil samples. Heliyon. 2023;9:e15472.
    [Google Scholar]
  149. , , , . Citizen involvement in reducing end-of-life product waste in Mexico City. Sustain. Prod. Consum.. 2023;41:167-178.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  150. , , , , , , , , , . Case studies and evidence-based approaches to addressing urban soil lead contamination. Appl. Geochemistry. 2017;83:14-30.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  151. , , , . Phytoremediation and bacterial community dynamics of diesel- and heavy metal-contaminated soil: long-term monitoring on a pilot scale. Int. Biodeterior. Biodegradation. 2023;183:105642
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  152. , . Termites in the hominin diet: a meta-analysis of termite genera, species and castes as a dietary supplement for south african robust australopithecines. J. Hum. Evol.. 2014;71:94-104.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  153. LI, S. ping, ZENG, L. sheng, SU, Z. liang, 2022. Wheat growth, photosynthesis and physiological characteristics under different soil Zn levels. J. Integr. Agric. 21, 1927–1940. doi: 10.1016/S2095-3119(21)63643-2.
  154. , , , , , . Electrochemically reversible foam enhanced flushing for PAHs-contaminated soil: stability of surfactant foam, effects of soil factors, and surfactant reversible recovery. Chemosphere. 2020;260:127645
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  155. , , , , , , , , , , , . Research and application of eco-friendly chelating agents in plugging removal systems: a review. Geoenergy Sci. Eng.. 2023;229:212135
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  156. , , , , , , . Influence of aged and pristine polyethylene microplastics on bioavailability of three heavy metals in soil: toxic effects to earthworms (eisenia fetida) Chemosphere. 2023;311:136833
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  157. , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Associations between prenatal organophosphate pesticide exposure and placental gene networks. Environ. Res.. 2023;224:115490
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  158. , , , , , , , . Migration and distribution characteristics of soil heavy metal(loid)s at a lead smelting site. J. Environ. Sci. (china). 2024;135:600-609.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  159. , , , . Comparison of reactive magnesia, quick lime, and ordinary Portland cement for stabilization/solidification of heavy metal-contaminated soils. Sci. Total Environ.. 2019;671:741-753.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  160. , , . Recovery of Zn and Cu from municipal solid waste incineration fly ash by integrating ammonium leaching and ammonia removal. Waste Manag.. 2024;178:115-125.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  161. , , . Effect and mechanism of nano-alumina on early hydration properties and heavy metals solidification/stabilization of alkali-activated MSWI fly ash solidified body. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2023;452:131327
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  162. , , , , , , , . Multipath diffusion process and spatial accumulation simulation of Cd in lead-zinc mining areas. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2024;465:133461
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  163. , , , , , . Impact of municipal solid waste incineration on heavy metals in the surrounding soils by multivariate analysis and lead isotope analysis. J. Environ. Sci. (china). 2019;82:47-56.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  164. , , , , , , , , . Remote sensing of environment fine-scale leaf chlorophyll distribution across a deciduous forest through two-step model inversion from Sentinel-2 data. Remote Sens. Environ.. 2021;264:112618
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  165. , , , , , , , , , , . Insights into the heavy metal adsorption and immobilization mechanisms of CaFe-layered double hydroxide corn straw biochar: synthesis and application in a combined heavy metal-contaminated environment. Chemosphere. 2023;313
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  166. , , , , , , , . Human biomonitoring reference values, exposure distribution, and characteristics of metals in the general population of Taiwan: Taiwan environmental survey for toxicants (TESTs), 2013–2016. Int. J. Hyg. Environ. Health. 2023;252:114195
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  167. , , , , , , , . Remediation of emerging contaminated sites due to uncontrolled e-waste recycling. Chem. Eng. J.. 2022;430:133169
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  168. , , , , , , , , , . Ecological patterns and adaptability of bacterial communities in alkaline copper mine drainage. Water Res.. 2018;133:99-109.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  169. , , , , , , , . Migration pathway and solidification mechanism of heavy metal Pb during the conversion of municipal solid waste incineration fly ash into ettringite and simultaneously purification of chloride salts solution process. Environ. Pollut.. 2024;341:122859
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  170. , , , . Plants and rhizospheric environment: affected by zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). a review. Plant Physiol. Biochem.. 2022;185:91-100.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  171. , , , , , , , , . Bio-organic fertilizer facilitated phytoremediation of heavy metal(loid)s-contaminated saline soil by mediating the plant-soil-rhizomicrobiota interactions. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;922:171278
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  172. , , , , , , , . Metal-driven bacterial community variation in urban and suburban park soils of Shanghai. China. Eur. J. Soil Biol.. 2023;115:103475
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  173. , , , , , , , , . Transformation behavior of heavy metal during Co-thermal treatment of hazardous waste incineration fly ash and slag/electroplating sludge. J. Environ. Manage.. 2024;351:119730
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  174. , , , , , , , . Contamination, sources and health risk of heavy metals in soil and dust from different functional areas in an industrial city of Panzhihua City Southwest China. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2021;420:126638
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  175. , , , , , , . Contamination assessment of mercury and arsenic in roadway dust from Baoji China. Atmos. Environ.. 2009;43:2489-2496.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  176. , , . Pleistocene environments in the southern Kalahari of South Africa. Quat. Int.. 2022;614:50-58.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  177. , , , , , , , , . Bioaccessibility, source and human health risk of Pb, Cd, Cu and Zn in windowsill dusts from an area affected by long-term Pb smelting. Sci. Total Environ.. 2022;842:156707
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  178. , , , , , , , . Detection of heavy metal ions using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy combined with filter paper modified with PtAg bimetallic nanoparticles. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2023;443:130188
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  179. , , , , , , , , , . Chemical and mechanical coating of sulfur on baby corn biochar and their role in soil Pb availability, uptake, and growth of tomato under Pb contamination. Environ. Pollut.. 2023;338:122654
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  180. , , , , . Sewage sludge incineration ash for coimmobilization of lead, zinc and copper: mechanisms of metal incorporation and competition. Waste Manag.. 2019;99:102-111.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  181. , , , , , . Identification of environmental lead sources and pathways in a mining and smelting town: Mount Isa Australia. Environ. Pollut.. 2013;180:304-311.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  182. , , , , . Mycosynthesized magnetic iron-oxide nanoparticles for the remediation of heavy metals – an insight into the mechanism of adsorption, process optimization using algorithmic approach and its application for the treatment of groundwater. Environ. Nanotechnology, Monit. Manag.. 2023;20:100854
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  183. , , , , . Metallothionein responses in the earthworm lampito mauritii (kinberg) following lead and zinc exposure: a promising tool for monitoring metal contamination. Eur. J. Soil Biol.. 2011;47:69-71.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  184. , , , , , , , . Promoting digital transformation in waste collection service and waste recycling in Moscow (Russia): applying a circular economy paradigm to mitigate climate change impacts on the environment. J. Clean. Prod.. 2022;354:131604
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  185. , , , , , , . Sources, distribution, associated health risks and remedial technologies for inorganic contamination in groundwater: a review in specific context of the state of Haryana. India. Environ. Res.. 2023;236:116696
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  186. , , , , , , , , , . Varietal differences influence arsenic and lead contamination of rice grown in mining impacted agricultural fields of Zamfara state. Nigeria. Chemosphere. 2022;305:135339
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  187. , , , , , , , . Myriad of physio-genetic factors determining the fate of plant under zinc nutrient management. Environ. Exp. Bot.. 2021;189:104559
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  188. , , , , , , , , . The italian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) as a bioindicator of oil field activity. Sci. Total Environ.. 2009;407:3597-3604.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  189. , , , , . Removal of cadmium from phosphoric acid in the presence of chloride ions using commercially available anion exchange resins. J. Ind. Eng. Chem.. 2023;118:488-498.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  190. , . Recovery of drinking water and valuable minerals from acid mine drainage using an integration of magnesite, lime, soda ash, CO2 and reverse osmosis treatment processes. J. Environ. Chem. Eng.. 2017;5:3136-3142.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  191. , , , , , , , , , . Current status and prospects of occupational medicine in the Russian Federation. Ann. Glob. Heal.. 2015;81:576-586.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  192. , , , , , , , , , , , . Microplastics drive microbial assembly, their interactions, and metagenomic functions in two soils with distinct pH and heavy metal availability. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2023;458:131973
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  193. , , , , . Heliyon field hyperspectral data and OLI8 multispectral imagery for heavy metal content prediction and mapping around an abandoned Pb – Zn mining site in northern Tunisia. Heliyon. 2022;8:e09712.
    [Google Scholar]
  194. , , , , , . Object-based detection of Arctic sea ice and melt ponds using high spatial resolution aerial photographs. Cold Reg. Sci. Technol.. 2015;119:211-222.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  195. , , , , , . Accumulation of heavy metals in metallophytes from three mining sites (southern Centre Morocco) and evaluation of their phytoremediation potential. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2019;169:150-160.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  196. , , , . Health risk assessment of heavy metals for population via consumption of pulses and cereals. Int. J. Biol. Innov.. 2020;02:241-246.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  197. , , , , . Evaluation of hydro-chemistry in a phreatic aquifer in the vindhyan region, India, using entropy weighted approach and geochemical modelling. Acta Geochim.. 2023;42:648-672.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  198. , , , , . Airborne particulate matter in an iron mining city: characterization, cell uptake and cytotoxicity effects of nanoparticles from PM2.5, PM10 and PM20 on human lung cells. Environ. Adv.. 2021;6:100125
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  199. , , , , , . Lead and cadmium content in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) from Egypt: a study for their molecular biomarkers. Sci. African. 2021;12:e00794.
    [Google Scholar]
  200. , , , , , , . Estimating water input in the mining industry in Brazil: a methodological proposal in a data-scarce context. Extr. Ind. Soc.. 2022;9
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  201. , . Global trends and environmental issues in nickel mining: sulfides versus laterites. Ore Geol. Rev.. 2010;38:9-26.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  202. , , , , , , , , . The soil pH and heavy metals revealed their impact on soil microbial community. J. Environ. Manage.. 2022;321:115770
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  203. , , , , , . A review on chemometric techniques with infrared, raman and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for sorting plastic waste in the recycling industry. Resour. Conserv. Recycl.. 2022;180:106217
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  204. , , , , . Health risk apportionment of arsenic from multiple exposure pathways in Paracatu, a gold mining town in Brazil. Sci. Total Environ.. 2019;673:36-43.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  205. , , , , , . Heavy metal priming plant stress tolerance deciphering through physiological, biochemical, molecular and omics mechanism. South African J. Bot.. 2024;168:16-25.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  206. , , , . Catena testing the performances of different fuzzy overlay methods in GIS-based landslide susceptibility mapping of Udi Province. SE Nigeria. Catena. 2023;220:106654
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  207. , , , , , . Evaluation of lead and mercury neurotoxic health risk by resident children in the Obuasi municipality. Ghana. Environ. Toxicol. Pharmacol.. 2010;29:209-212.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  208. , . Desalination in Chile’s mining regions: global drivers and local impacts of a technological fix to hydrosocial conflict. J. Clean. Prod.. 2021;323:129104
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  209. , , , , , , , . Groundwater quality index and potential human health risk assessment of heavy metals in water: a case study of Calabar metropolis. Nigeria. Environ. Nanotechnology, Monit. Manag.. 2023;19:100780
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  210. , , . Contrasting community and corporate perceptions of sustainability: a case study within the platinum mining region of South Africa. Resour. Policy. 2013;38:568-576.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  211. , , , , , , , , . Heavy metals in soils and edible tissues of Lepidium meyenii (maca) and health risk assessment in areas influenced by mining activity in the central region of Peru. Toxicol. Reports. 2021;8:1461-1470.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  212. , . Water quality assessment of the Asata River catchment area in Enugu Metropolis. Southeast Nigeria. J. African Earth Sci.. 2016;121:247-254.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  213. , , , , , , , . Eco-friendly treatment of wastewater and its impact on soil and vegetables using flood and micro-irrigation. Agric. Water Manag.. 2023;275:108025
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  214. , , , , , . Bisphenol and analogues in indoor dust from E-waste recycling sites, neighboring residential homes, and urban residential homes: implications for human exposure. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;907:168012
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  215. , , , , , , , , , , . Effects of complex pollution by microplastics and heavy metals on soil physicochemical properties and microbial communities under alternate wetting and drying conditions. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2023;458:131989
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  216. , , . Opposition tactics on the implementation of advocacy-driven institutional reforms: a study of mining environmental assesment in Peru. Extr. Ind. Soc.. 2024;17:101355
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  217. , , , , , , , , , , , , . Evaluating ecotoxicological assays for comprehensive risk assessment of toxic metals present in industrial wastewaters in the Republic of Korea. Sci. Total Environ.. 2023;867
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  218. , , , . Recent status of water quality in Bangladesh: a systematic review, meta-analysis and health risk assessment. Environ. Challenges. 2022;6:100416
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  219. , , , , , . Improving mineral resource management by accurate financial management: studying through artificial intelligence tools. Resour. Policy. 2023;81:103323
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  220. , , , , , , , , . Health risk assessment in children living in an urban area with hydrofluorosis: San Luis Potosí Mexico case study. J. Trace Elem. Med. Biol.. 2021;68
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  221. , , , , , . International journal of applied Earth observations and geoinformation multi-temporal spectral reflectance of tropical savanna understorey species and implications for hyperspectral remote sensing. Int. J. Appl. Earth Obs. Geoinf.. 2022;112:102870
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  222. , , , . Mineralogical and geochemical controls on the release of trace elements from slag produced by base- and precious-metal smelting at abandoned mine sites. Appl. Geochemistry. 2004;19:1039-1064.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  223. , , , . Biosorption of heavy metals from mining influenced water onto chitin products. Chem. Eng. J.. 2011;166:1002-1009.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  224. , . The geology, structure and mineralisation of the oyu tolgoi porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum deposits, Mongolia: a review. Geosci. Front.. 2016;7:375-407.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  225. , , . Environmental mineralogy of the Kursk iron ore deposit. Earth Sci. Front.. 2008;15:155-162.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  226. , , , , , , , , . Artificial intelligence-based microfluidic platforms for the sensitive detection of environmental pollutants: recent advances and prospects. Trends Environ. Anal. Chem.. 2022;34:e00160.
    [Google Scholar]
  227. , , . Remediation of diesel-contaminated soil using zero-valent nano-nickel and zero-valent nano copper particles-stabilized tween 80 surfactant foam. Mater. Today Proc.. 2023;76:388-392.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  228. , , , , , , , . Toxicity of cadmium and its competition with mineral nutrients for uptake by plants: a review. Pedosphere. 2020;30:168-180.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  229. , , , , , . Additional sampling using in-situ portable X-ray fluorescence (PXRF) for rapid and high-precision investigation of soil heavy metals at a regional scale. Environ. Pollut.. 2022;292:118324
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  230. , , , . Stochastic risk assessment of urban soils contaminated by heavy metals in Kazakhstan. Sci. Total Environ.. 2021;750:141535
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  231. , , , , , , . Phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil of Lyari River using bioenergy crops. South African J. Bot.. 2024;167:663-670.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  232. , , , . Schefferville revisited: the rise and fall (and rise again) of iron mining in Québec-Labrador. Extr. Ind. Soc.. 2022;12:101008
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  233. , , , , , , . Ambient particulate matter burden of disease in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Environ. Res.. 2021;197:111036
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  234. , , , , . Towards understanding the effect of heavy metals on mycobiont physiological condition in a widespread metal-tolerant lichen Cladonia rei. Chemosphere. 2022;308:136365
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  235. , , , . Tectonic evolution and paleogeography of the mesozoic Pucará Basin, central Peru. J. South Am. Earth Sci.. 2007;24:1-24.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  236. , , , , . Human insecurities in gold mining: a systematic review of evidence from Ghana. Extr. Ind. Soc.. 2021;8:100951
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  237. , , , , , , . Current and prospective situation of municipal solid waste final disposal in Mexico: a spatio-temporal evaluation. Renew. Sustain. Energy Transit.. 2021;1:100007
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  238. , . The social management canvas for the mining industry: a peruvian case study. Resour. Policy. 2023;85:103967
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  239. , , , , , , , , , , . Membrane technology for a sustainable copper mining industry: the chilean paradigm. Clean. Eng. Technol.. 2021;2:100091
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  240. , , , , , , . Geochemical and mineralogical investigation of cemented crusts in the tailings cover at long Lake gold mine, Sudbury. Canada. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2023;451:131192
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  241. , , , , , , , . Plastic pollution in the surface water in Jakarta. Indonesia. Mar. Pollut. Bull.. 2022;182:114023
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  242. , , , . Major, trace and rare earth element (REE) geochemistry of the oligocene stratiform manganese oxide-hydroxide deposits in the Nikopol. Ukraine. Ore Geol. Rev.. 2020;126:103772
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  243. , , , , , . Phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated sites: eco-environmental concerns. Field Studies, Sustainability Issues, and Future Prospects. 2019:71-131.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  244. , , , . Accumulation of metals in fish from lead-zinc mining areas of southeastern Missouri. USA. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2007;67:14-30.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  245. , , , , , . Sustainable conversion of brazilian Amazon kaolin mining waste to zinc-based linde type a zeolites with antibacterial activity. J. Clean. Prod.. 2022;338
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  246. , , , , , , . Ecological and human health risk assessment of metals in soils and wheat along Sutlej river (India) Chemosphere. 2023;312:137331
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  247. , , , , , . Aluminum smelters in the energy transition: optimal configuration and operation for renewable energy integration in high insolation regions. Renew. Energy. 2021;180:937-953.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  248. , , , , , , , , , , , , . Identifying dust as the dominant source of exposure to heavy metals for residents around battery factories in the battery industrial Capital of China. Sci. Total Environ.. 2021;765:144375
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  249. , , , , , . Does emission trading system reduce mining cities’ pollution emissions? a quasi-natural experiment based on chinese prefecture-level cities. Resour. Policy. 2023;81:103293
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  250. , , , , , , . Effect of site hydrological conditions and soil aggregate sizes on the stabilization of heavy metals (Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn) by biochar. Sci. Total Environ.. 2022;802:149949
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  251. , , , , , , . Evaluation of soil heavy metals pollution and the phytoremediation potential of copper-nickel mine tailings ponds. PLoS One. 2023;18:e0277159.
    [Google Scholar]
  252. , , , , , , , . Multi-functional 3D honeycomb ceramic plate for clean water production by heterogeneous photo-Fenton reaction and solar-driven water evaporation. Nano Energy. 2019;60:222-230.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  253. , , , , , , , . Remediation of chromium contaminated soil by soil washing using EDTA and N-acetyl-L-cysteine as the chelating agents. Prog. Org. Coatings. 2022;165:106704
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  254. , , , , , , . Heavy metals and metalloids accumulation in common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.): a review. Chemosphere. 2023;335:139010
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  255. , , , , . Soil-mustard revitalization via rice husk ash, a promising soil amendment material for sustainable management of heavy metal contamination in tropical ecosystem. J. Environ. Manage.. 2024;355:120538
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  256. , , , . Some properties of a granular activated carbon-sequencing batch reactor (GAC-SBR) system for treatment of textile wastewater containing direct dyes. J. Environ. Manage.. 2007;85:162-170.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  257. , , , , , . Distribution of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in tailings, soils, and plants around gol-E-Gohar iron mine, a case study in Iran. Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res.. 2017;24:18798-18816.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  258. , , , , . Multi-metal electrochemical response mechanism for direct copper recovery from waste printed circuit boards via sulfate- and chloride-system electrolysis. Resour. Conserv. Recycl.. 2023;190:106804
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  259. , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Evaluation methods for assessing effectiveness of in situ remediation of soil and sediment contaminated with organic pollutants and heavy metals. Environ. Int.. 2017;105:43-55.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  260. , , , , , , . Challenges and opportunities of utilizing municipal solid waste as alternative building materials for sustainable development goals: a review. Sustain. Chem. Pharm.. 2022;27:100706
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  261. , , , . Cellulose derivatives crosslinked by citric acid on electrode surface as a heavy metal absorption/sensing matrix. Colloids Surfaces A Physicochem. Eng. Asp.. 2021;628:127242
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  262. , , . Application of Festuca arundinacea in phytoremediation of soils contaminated with Pb, Ni, Cd and petroleum hydrocarbons. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2020;194:110409
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  263. , . Challenging the set mining path: agency and diversification in the case of Kiruna. Extr. Ind. Soc.. 2022;11:101064
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  264. Subramaniam, T., Idris, M.B., K.S., S., K.S., R., S., D., 2024. Mitigating hydrogen evolution reaction and corrosion of zinc in electrically rechargeable zinc-air batteries using nanofluid electrolytes. J. Energy Storage 81, 110457 10.1016/j.est.2024.110457.
  265. , , , , , , , , , . Magnetic susceptibility and heavy metal contents in sediments of riam kiwa, riam kanan and Martapura rivers, Kalimantan Selatan province. Indonesia. Heliyon. 2023;9:e16425.
    [Google Scholar]
  266. , , , . Air pollution, food production and food security: a review from the perspective of food system. J. Integr. Agric.. 2017;16:2945-2962.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  267. Tale, E., Pa, J., Wilke, F.D.H., Oroji, A., Andronikova, I., 2023. Source of gold and ore-forming processes in the Zarshuran gold deposit , NW Iran : Insights from in situ elemental and sulfur isotopic compositions of pyrite , fluid inclusions , and O − H isotopes 156. doi: 10.1016/j.oregeorev.2023.105382.
  268. , , . Leaching optimization of municipal solid waste incineration ash for resource recovery: a case study of cu, zn. Pb and Cd. Waste Manag.. 2016;48:315-322.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  269. , , , , , , , , . Particle classification of iron ore sinter green bed mixtures by 3D X-ray microcomputed tomography and machine learning. Powder Technol.. 2023;415:118151
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  270. , , , . Zeolite-modified electrodes for electrochemical sensing of heavy metal ions – progress and future directions. Mater. Today Chem.. 2023;29:101412
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  271. , , , , , . Management of used lead acid battery in China: Secondary lead industry progress, policies and problems. Resour. Conserv. Recycl.. 2014;93:75-84.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  272. , , . Ecological risk of trace metals in soil from gold mining region in South Africa. J. Hazard. Mater. Adv.. 2022;7:100118
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  273. , , , , , , , . An assessment of various potentially toxic elements and associated health risks in agricultural soil along the middle gangetic basin. India. Chemosphere. 2022;300:134433
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  274. , , , , , , , . Evaluation of potentially toxic elements in soils developed on limestone and lead-zinc mine sites in parts of southeastern Nigeria. Heliyon 2024e27503
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  275. , , , , , , , , , , , . Effect of soil texture and zinc oxide nanoparticles on growth and accumulation of cadmium by wheat: a life cycle study. Environ. Res.. 2023;216:114397
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  276. , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Decarbonisation to drive dramatic increase in mining waste–options for reduction. Resour. Conserv. Recycl.. 2023;190
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  277. , , , . Effect of cationic surfactant addition on the electrokinetics and stability of silica/kaolinite suspensions in copper hydrometallurgy conditions. Miner. Eng.. 2021;169:106958
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  278. , , , , , . Removal of heavy metals present in water from the Yautepec River Morelos México, using Opuntia ficus-indica mucilage. Environ. Adv.. 2022;7
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  279. , , , , , , , . Impact of a catastrophic flood on the heavy metal pollution status and the concurrent responses of the bentho-pelagic community in a tropical monsoonal estuary. Mar. Pollut. Bull.. 2020;155:111191
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  280. , , . Hydrogeochemical effects of a bulkhead in the dinero mine tunnel, Sugar loaf mining district, near Leadville. Colorado. Appl. Geochemistry. 2015;62:61-74.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  281. , , , . Environmental protection fund audits in Zambia: a strategy for ensuring regulatory compliance in Zambia’s mining sector. Extr. Ind. Soc.. 2023;16:101353
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  282. , , , , , , , . Estimation of soil pH using PXRF spectrometry and Vis-NIR spectroscopy for rapid environmental risk assessment of soil heavy metals. Process Saf. Environ. Prot.. 2019;132:73-81.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  283. , , , , , , . Biochar addition reduces salinity in salt-affected soils with no impact on soil pH: a meta-analysis. Geoderma. 2024;443:116845
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  284. Wang, J., Zhen, J., Hu, W., Chen, S., Lizaga, I., Zeraatpisheh, M., Yang, X., 2023. International Soil and Water Conservation Research Remote sensing of soil degradation : Progress and perspective. Int. Soil Water Conserv. Res. doi: 10.1016/j.iswcr.2023.03.002.
  285. , , , , . Solidification and stabilization of Pb–Zn mine tailing with municipal solid waste incineration fly ash and ground granulated blast-furnace slag for unfired brick fabrication. Environ. Pollut.. 2023;321:121135
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  286. , , , , , , , . Stabilization of heavy metal-contaminated soils by biochar: challenges and recommendations. Sci. Total Environ.. 2020;729:139060
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  287. , , , , , , , , , , , , . Combined passivators regulate physiological, antioxidant potential and metals accumulation in potato grown in metals contaminated soil. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;912:168956
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  288. , , , , , , . Fractionations of heavy metals and their correlations with magnetic susceptibility in soil from a typical alluvial island in the lower yangtze river. China. J. Clean. Prod.. 2023;418:138060
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  289. , , , , , . Effects of biochar derived from sewage sludge and sewage sludge/cotton stalks on the immobilization and phytoavailability of Pb, Cu, and Zn in sandy loam soil. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2021;419:126468
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  290. , , , , , , , . Pollution level mapping of heavy metal in soil for ground-airborne hyperspectral data with support vector machine and deep neural network : a case study of southwestern xiong ’ an, China ✩. Environ. Pollut.. 2023;321:121132
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  291. , , , , , , , , , . Geochemical distributions of natural radionuclides in surface soils and sediments impacted by lead-zinc mining activity. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2023;263:115210
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  292. , , , , , , , , . Exploring the application of artificial intelligence technology for identification of water pollution characteristics and tracing the source of water quality pollutants. Sci. Total Environ.. 2019;693:133440
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  293. , , , , , , , , , . Bioprospecting culturable and unculturable microbial consortia through metagenomics for bioremediation. Clean. Chem. Eng.. 2022;2:100017
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  294. , , , , , , . Phytoremediation of heavy metals from industrially contaminated soil using sunflower (Helianthus annus L.) by inoculation of two indigenous bacteria. Plant Stress. 2024;11:100297
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  295. , , , , . Binary adsorption and migration simulation of levofloxacin with zinc at concentrations simulating wastewater on silty clay and the potential environmental risk in groundwater. Chemosphere. 2023;311:136878
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  296. , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Utilization of biowaste for mine spoil rehabilitation. Adv. Agron.. 2016;138:97-173.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  297. , , , , , . Phytoremediation experiments with helianthus tuberosus under different pH and heavy metal soil concentrations. Hydrometallurgy. 2017;168:153-158.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  298. , , , , , , , , , , , , . Influencing mechanisms of microplastics existence on soil heavy metals accumulated by plants. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;926:171878
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  299. , , , , , , . International journal of applied earth observations and geoinformation monitoring gas flaring in Texas using time-series sentinel-2 MSI and landsat-8 OLI images. Int. J. Appl. Earth Obs. Geoinf.. 2022;114:103075
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  300. , , , , , , , , , , . Heavy metal migration dynamics and solid-liquid distribution strategy in abandoned tailing soils. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2024;468:133794
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  301. , , , , , , , , , , , . Heavy metal pollution and health risk assessment of agricultural soil near a smelter in an industrial city in China. Int. J. Environ. Health Res.. 2020;30:174-186.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  302. , , . Heavy metals in contaminated soils: a review of sources, chemistry, risks and best available strategies for remediation. ISRN Ecol.. 2011;2011:1-20.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  303. , , , , , , , , . A review on magnetic biochar for the removal of heavy metals from contaminated soils: preparation, application, and microbial response. J. Hazard. Mater. Adv.. 2023;10:100254
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  304. , , , , , , , . Distribution, ecological risk assessment and source identification of heavy metals in surface sediments of Huixian karst wetland. China. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2019;185:109700
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  305. , , , , . Activated carbon coupled with citric acid in enhancing the remediation of Pb-contaminated soil by electrokinetic method. J. Clean. Prod.. 2021;308:127433
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  306. , , , , , , , , , . Gleaning insights from german energy transition and large-scale underground energy storage for China’s carbon neutrality. Int. J. Min. Sci. Technol.. 2023;33:529-553.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  307. , , , , , , , , . Recycling heavy metal ions by ultrathin nanosheet-assembled calcium silicate hydrate for the degradation of organic pollutants in wastewater via Fenton-like reactions. Colloids Surfaces A Physicochem. Eng. Asp.. 2024;682:132871
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  308. , , , , , , , , , , , . Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals the differential response to cadmium stress of two Pleurotus fungi: pleurotus cornucopiae and Pleurotus ostreatus. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2021;416:125814
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  309. , , , , , , . Application of coal-based direct reduction-magnetic separation process for recycling of high-iron-content non-ferrous metallurgical wastes: challenges and opportunities. Process Saf. Environ. Prot.. 2024;183:59-76.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  310. , , , , , , . Sources, transfers and the fate of heavy metals in soil-wheat systems: the case of lead (Pb)/zinc (Zn) smelting region. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2023;441:129863
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  311. , , , , , , . Sequential reuse of remediated soil from petroleum-contaminated site to recover transition heavy metals and activate peroxysulphate oxidation. J. Water Process Eng.. 2023;56:104354
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  312. , , , , , , , , , , , . Simulation of vertical migration behaviors of heavy metals in polluted soils from arid regions in northern China under extreme weather. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;919:170494
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  313. , , , , , , , . Heavy metal toxicity in earthworms and its environmental implications: a review. Environ. Adv.. 2023;12:100374
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  314. , , , , . Omics approaches in effective selection and generation of potential plants for phytoremediation of heavy metal from contaminated resources. J. Environ. Manage.. 2023;336:117730
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  315. , , , . Hydrothermal circulation at 1.8 Ga in the Kiruna area, northern Sweden, as revealed by apatite geochemical systematics. Precambrian Res.. 2023;395:107151
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  316. , , . Effectiveness of cracker dust as a capping material for Pb-rich soil in the mining town of Broken Hill, Australia. Catena. 2017;148:81-91.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  317. , , . Mining violations, rent-seeking, and resource governance in China: evidence from central environmental protection inspection. Extr. Ind. Soc.. 2023;13:101218
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  318. , , , , , , , , , , , , . Cadmium, lead and arsenic contamination in an abandoned nonferrous metal smelting site in southern China: chemical speciation and mobility. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.. 2022;239:113617
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  319. , , , , , . Enhanced adsorption and reduction of Pb(II) and Zn(II) from mining wastewater by carbon@nano-zero-valent iron (C@nZVI) derived from biosynthesis. Sep. Purif. Technol.. 2023;311:123249
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  320. , , , , , , . Interactions between bacteria and eukaryotic microorganisms and their response to soil properties and heavy metal exchangeability nearby a coal-fired power plant. Chemosphere. 2022;302:134829
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  321. , , , , , . Remediation and resource utilization of petroleum-contaminated soil by pyrite-assisted pyrolysis as bifunctional materials to adsorb heavy metal and activate peroxymonosulfate oxidation. Sci. Total Environ.. 2023;892:164742
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  322. , , , , , , . Science of the total environment UAV remote sensing applications in marine monitoring : knowledge visualization and review. Sci. Total Environ.. 2022;838:155939
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  323. , , , , , , , , , , . Heavy metal pollution in agricultural soils from surrounding industries with low emissions: assessing contamination levels and sources. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;917:170610
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  324. , , , , , , . Sustain China’s copper resources with domestic mining, trading, and recycling. Resour. Conserv. Recycl.. 2024;202:107396
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  325. , , , . Principles, developments and applications of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy in agriculture: a review. Artif. Intell. Agric.. 2020;4:127-139.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  326. , , , . Spatiotemporal variation of vegetation cover in mining areas of Dexing City. China. Environ. Res.. 2023;225:115634
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  327. , , , , , , , , , . When another one bites the dust: environmental impact of global copper demand on local communities in the Atacama mining hotspot as registered by tree rings. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;920:170954
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  328. , , , , , , , . The influence of pH and organic matter content in paddy soil on heavy metal availability and their uptake by rice plants. Environ. Pollut.. 2011;159:84-91.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  329. , , , , , , , , . Volatilization behavior of lead, zinc and sulfur from flotation products of low-grade Pb-Zn oxide ore by carbothermic reduction. Powder Technol.. 2024;433:119185
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  330. , , , , , , . Trace metal pollution in soil and wild plants from lead-zinc smelting areas in Huixian County. Northwest China. J. Geochemical Explor.. 2014;147:182-188.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  331. , , , , , , . Migration, solidification/stabilization mechanism of heavy metal in lightweight ceramisite from co-sintering fly ash and electrolytic manganese residue. Process Saf. Environ. Prot.. 2023;173:485-494.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  332. , , , , , , , . Size distribution and source of heavy metals in particulate matter on the lead and zinc smelting affected area. J. Environ. Sci. (china). 2018;71:188-196.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  333. , , , , , , , , , , , , . Mitigation of the mobilization and accumulation of toxic metal(loid)s in ryegrass using sodium sulfide. Sci. Total Environ.. 2024;909:168387
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  334. , , , , , , , , . Assessment of soil heavy metal pollution in provinces of China based on different soil types: from normalization to soil quality criteria and ecological risk assessment. J. Hazard. Mater.. 2023;441:129891
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  335. , , . Stirred-tank bioleaching of copper and cobalt from mine tailings in Chile. Miner. Eng.. 2022;180:107514
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  336. , , , , , , . Spectroscopic methods for isotope analysis of heavy metal atoms: a review. Spectrochim. Acta Part B at. Spectrosc.. 2023;207:106740
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  337. , , , . Application of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) in environmental monitoring. Spectrochim. Acta - Part B at. Spectrosc.. 2021;181:106218
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  338. , , , . Pollution assessment and source apportionment of heavy metals in soil from lead – zinc mining areas of south China. J. Environ. Chem. Eng.. 2023;11:109320
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  339. , , , , , , , , , . Drip irrigation reduces the toxicity of heavy metals to soybean: by moving heavy metals out of the root zone and improving physiological metabolism. Agric. Water Manag.. 2024;292:108670
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  340. , , , , , , , . Two-stage chemical-biological oxidation process for low-grade refractory gold concentrate with high arsenic and sulfur. Miner. Eng.. 2023;191:107976
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  341. , , , , . Femtosecond laser filamentation-induced breakdown spectroscopy combined with chemometrics methods for soil heavy metal analysis. Optik (stuttg).. 2022;251:168444
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  342. , , , , , . The viability of biofuel production on urban marginal land: an analysis of metal contaminants and energy balance for pittsburgh’s sunflower gardens. Landsc. Urban Plan.. 2014;124:22-33.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  343. , , , , . Efficacy of phosphorus loaded oyster shell in heavy metal removal: a combined study on adsorption behavior, structure characterization and comparative mechanism. Environ. Technol. Innov.. 2024;33:103484
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  344. , , , , . Genesis of the carbonate-hosted zinc–lead deposits in the southwestern Yangtze craton, SW China: insights from the maoping deposit. J. Geochemical Explor.. 2023;250:107234
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  345. , , , , , , , . How the population in Mount Isa is living with lead exposure from mining activities. Extr. Ind. Soc.. 2021;8:123-134.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  346. , , , , , , , . New insights into the sustainable use of soluble straw humic substances for the remediation of multiple heavy metals in contaminated soil. Sci. Total Environ.. 2023;903:166274
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  347. , , , , , , , , , . Ecological-health risks assessment and source apportionment of heavy metals in agricultural soils around a super-sized lead-zinc smelter with a long production history, in China. Environ. Pollut.. 2022;307:119487
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  348. , , , , , , , , , , , , . Magnetic solid phase extraction for the determination of Pb(II) and Cd(II) in high salt foods. J. Food Compos. Anal.. 2024;126:105921
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  349. , , , , . Separation and recovery of copper, nickel, cobalt and zinc in chloride solutions by synergistic solvent extraction. Hydrometallurgy. 2012;127–128:1-7.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  350. , , , , , , , , . Remediation characteristics and effects of electrokinetic-citric acid system on karst soil contaminated by arsenic and cadmium. Environ. Technol. Innov.. 2024;33:103483
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  351. , , , , , , , , , , . Nanoparticles assisted regulation of oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme system in plants under salt stress: a review. Chemosphere. 2023;314:137649
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
  352. , , , , , . Engineering properties of red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) seeds. Ind. Crops Prod.. 2012;37:69-75.
    [CrossRef] [Google Scholar]
Show Sections