Effects of heavy metals on water

Effects of heavy metals on water

In modern industrial society, heavy metals are omnipresent and an essential component of many industrial processes. Although they occur in small quantities and are necessary for various biological functions, they can have harmful effects on the environment and in particular on water in increased concentrations. Heavy metals have come into the environment through human activities and have an impact on ecosystems and health of people and animals. This article illuminates the effects of heavy metals on water and analyzes their sources, transport routes, effects and control measures.

sources of heavy metals

natural sources

Heavy metals naturally appear in the area. They come from the weathering process of mineral raw materials and the erosion of unprotected surfaces. Volcanic activities and forest fires can also release considerable amounts of heavy metals.

anthropogenic sources

However, the main sources of heavy metals are anthropogenic, i.e. caused by humans. Industrial processes such as mining, metal processing and - refineries, energy generation and waste disposal produce large amounts of heavy metals. They are also released in agriculture by using heavy metal pesticides and fertilizers as well as in urban areas through traffic and construction work.

transport routes of heavy metals

Heavy metals can be transported into the atmosphere by wind and rain and then entered in water by precipitation. Another important transport route is the direct introduction to rivers and lakes through industries or the infiltration in the soil and the transport by the groundwater.

effects on water and their residents

acute and chronic toxicity

Once in water, heavy metals can cause enormous damage. They are known for their acute and chronic toxicity for water organisms such as fish, insects, algae and microorganisms. They can even be harmful in subletal concentrations by affecting reproduction and growth and changing the behavior of organisms.

Bio accumulation and biomagnification

Another serious problem is bio -accumulation and biomagnification of heavy metals. Bio -accumulation means accumulation of heavy metals in organisms, while biomagication is the increase in concentration in the food chain. Therefore, heavy metals can accumulate in high concentrations in the tissue of predators, which can affect their health and can lead to serious diseases.

Effects on the water quality and function

Heavy metals can also change the physical and chemical properties of water, which can lead to reduced water quality and impairment of water use. In addition, you can interfere with the biogochemical cycles and the functionality of ecosystems.

control measures and recommendations for action

preventive measures

The most effective means of controling heavy metal load is prevention. This includes reducing the use of heavy metals, especially in industry and agriculture, and the replacement by less harmful substances. In addition, it is necessary to improve emission control and implement strategies for reducing waste and recycling.

technological solutions

There are various technological solutions for heavy metal cleaning for already contaminated waters. This includes procedures such as precipitation, adsorption, ion exchange and electrochemical treatment. Another promising approach is the use of biological methods, e.g. plants or microorganisms that can absorb and store heavy metals.

political measures

At the political level, strict regulations, controls and punishments are essential for heavy metal causes. At the same time, the public must be informed about the risks of heavy metals and sensitized to a sustainable lifestyle.

conclusion

The stress of our water through heavy metals is a serious problem with serious effects on ecosystems and human health. Your control requires multidisciplinary solutions that include prevention, technological innovation and political measures. Only through sustainable and environmentally conscious practice can we get and improve the quality of our water and thus minimize the negative effects of heavy metals.