Heavy metals in soil threaten global food safety and health
Global agriculture is facing a challenge. Scientists are raising alarms about soil pollution and the infiltration of substances such as arsenic, lead, and cadmium into food. According to the latest analyses, approximately 17% of the world's arable lands are contaminated with heavy metals.
Global agriculture is struggling with a significant environmental problem. As shown by analyses conducted by scientists for the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and published in the scientific journal "Science", about 242 million hectares of soil worldwide are contaminated with toxic heavy metals, which accounts for one-sixth of the world's arable land. This alarming data has serious consequences for the environment and public health.
They analyzed over 1000 regional studies from around the world
A research team including Deyi Hou, Xiyue Jia, Liuwei Wang, Steve P. McGrath, Yong-Guan Zhu, Qing Hu, Fang-Jie Zhao, Michael S. Bank, David O’Connor, and Jerome Nriagu has gathered data from over 1,000 regional studies worldwide, as well as using machine learning technology.
Dr. Liz Rylott, a senior lecturer in biology at the University of York, explained to The Guardian that the map shows metal pollution crosses national borders, indicating that addressing the issue will require international collaboration. She emphasized that the research exposes a troubling level of toxic metals infiltrating soil, food, and water, posing serious risks to both human health and the environment.
Which metals contaminate the soils?
Research has found that approximately 14-17% of the world's arable lands are polluted by metals such as arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, nickel, and lead. The levels of these substances exceed safety thresholds, posing a threat to crop quality and public health. Dr. Liz Rylott from the University of York emphasizes that heavy metals can lead to skin changes, nerve and organ function limitations, and even cancers.
The sources of pollution are both natural factors and human activities. The effects of contamination are long-term and include risks to ecosystems, reduced crop yields, and threats to water quality. Bioaccumulation in livestock further threatens food safety.
The problem will continue to deepen
In the face of increasing demand for rare earth metals for green technology production, scientists warn of a deepening problem. From 900 million to 1.4 billion people globally live in high-risk areas for metal contamination. Cadmium is the most widespread toxic metal, especially in South and East Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
Dr. Rylott also highlights that the problem of heavy metal pollution crosses national borders and requires international cooperation. The effects primarily impact low and middle-income countries, exacerbating poverty issues. The impact of these contaminated crops entering global food networks is not as clear - adds the expert.
