Distribution and risk assessment of toxic metal pollution in the soil and sediment around the copper mine

Industrial pollution of metals poses significant environmental challenges, particularly in areas surrounding mining operations. This study focused on assessing the distribution and risk of toxic metal pollution in soil and sediment around the Sarcheshmeh copper mine in Iran. A total of 171 soil and 10 sediment samples were collected randomly for the determination of copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), molybdenum (Mo), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd) concentrations. Using the USEPA method, soil samples were acid digested, and metal detection was carried out using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The results revealed contamination levels, with Cu being particularly high, suggesting that pollution decreases with distance from the mine to the city of Rafsanjan, indicating anthropogenic sources of contamination. Although the soil was found to be alkaline and not poisoned by Al or exhibiting non-natural states, sediment samples displayed moderate pollution levels for Mo and Pb, while Cd and Cu were identified as more concerning. The overarching conclusion is that pollution control measures, such as monitoring and filtering wastewater from the mine, could significantly mitigate the pollution introduction of trace elements into soil systems.