ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METALS CONCENTRATION IN INITIAL SOILS OF POST-MINING LANDSCAPES IN KRYVYI RIH DISTRICT (UKRAINE)

The assessment of heavy metals content in the initial soils of post-mining landscapes plays a crucial role in pollution control, ecological protection, and safeguarding human health. This study focuses on the Kryvyi Rih district in Ukraine, where historical iron mining activities have left behind significant waste materials, including low-grade ore and waste rock. These post-mining landscapes often pose environmental and health risks due to the leaching of heavy metals into the soil. Employing a systematic methodology, soil samples were collected from various sites within the district. The concentrations of several heavy metals were analyzed, focusing on their potential ecological and health impacts. The results indicate elevated levels of heavy metals, raising concerns about environmental safety and human exposure in the region. This study highlights the urgent need for effective remediation strategies and underscores the importance of integrating environmental considerations into mining operations. Furthermore, the findings contribute to a better understanding of the ecological consequences of mining activities, particularly in developing regions like Ukraine. The outcomes serve as a basis for future research and policy initiatives aimed at reducing environmental degradation and promoting sustainable land management practices.