1
|
Male YT, Reichelt-Brushett A, Burton ED, Nanlohy A. Assessment of mercury distribution and bioavailability from informal coastal cinnabar mining - Risk to the marine environment. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 199:116047. [PMID: 38237248 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Coastal cinnabar mining commenced in 2010 around Luhu on Seram (Ceram) Island, Indonesia. This study investigates the ore characteristics and environmental distribution and bioavailability of mercury in coastal sediments from eight sites adjacent to, and north and south of the mining area. Sediment and ore samples were digested using 1:3 HNO3:HCl for total extractable metal determination and separate samples were extracted with 1.0 HCl for bioavailable metals (Hg, Cu, Zn, Cr, Ni and Pb). Analysis was completed using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Ore defined by miners as 'first class ore' was around 50 % cinnabar. Mercury concentrations were extremely elevated in near coastal sediments (up to 2796 mg/kg) with bioavailable concentrations exceeding 450 mg/kg. Marine sediments elevated in mercury extend to the north and south of the coastal mine site and cover in excess of 14 km. Total organic carbon in marine sediments was relatively low (predominately <0.6 %) suggesting mercury methylation will likely be slow, however, inorganic mercury is a known toxicant. Other metals of environmental concern (Cu, Zn, Cr, Ni and Pb) in sediments were not strongly associated with the mining operations, rather were elevated around coastal villages, but not at concentrations that raise immediate concerns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yusthinus Tobias Male
- Department Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Pattimura, Ambon, Indonesia
| | | | - Edward D Burton
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Alberth Nanlohy
- Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, University of Pattimura, Ambon, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Meutia AA, Bachriadi D, Gafur NA. Environment Degradation, Health Threats, and Legality at the Artisanal Small-Scale Gold Mining Sites in Indonesia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6774. [PMID: 37754633 PMCID: PMC10531021 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20186774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Artisanal Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) activities, despite offering numerous economic incentives, inflict negative impacts on the environment and public health due to the use of mercury or cyanide. This study aims to compare three ASGM locations in Indonesia in terms of environmental impacts and potential health problems in the community. As part of this research, field surveys at three ASGM illegal locations with different conditions, observations, literature studies, and interviews with the community and stakeholders were conducted. At each of the survey sites, the potential threat to public health due to the use of mercury was determined to be high. Additionally, many of the environmental impacts detected were deemed to have reached a high-alert stage, in some cases even posing a level of extreme danger. Based on these results, it has become clear that a form of mining management which reduces the negative impacts on the surrounding environment and community health is needed. The suggestions put forward in this paper, including the call for greater control of ASGM, may also be applied in other developing countries which suffer from similar problems and conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ami A. Meutia
- Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, 457-4 Motoyama, Kamigamo, Kita-ku, Kyoto 603-8047, Japan;
| | - Dianto Bachriadi
- Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, 457-4 Motoyama, Kamigamo, Kita-ku, Kyoto 603-8047, Japan;
| | - Nurfitri Abdul Gafur
- Research Center for Environmental and Clean Technology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Building 820 Geostech, South Tangerang 15341, Banten, Indonesia;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tomiyasu T, Yasumatsu S, Kodamatani H, Kanzaki R, Takenaka C, Murao S, Miyagawa S, Nonaka K, Ikeguchi A, Navarrete IA. The dynamics of mercury around an artisanal and small-scale gold mining area, Camarines Norte, Philippines. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:20052-20064. [PMID: 36251184 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-23497-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
To elucidate the dynamics of mercury emitted and released by artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) activity and to estimate its impact on the ecosystems of the bay, the distribution of mercury in the atmosphere, soil, water, and sediment around Mambulao Bay, Camarines Norte, Philippines, was investigated. The ASGM operations use mercury to extract gold from ore and are located on the east shore side of the bay. Samplings were conducted in August 2017 and September 2018. The samples were used for determination of total mercury (T-Hg) and organic mercury (org-Hg) concentrations, total organic carbon (TOC) content, and chemical composition. The atmospheric mercury concentration on the east shore side, 6.1-25.8 ng m-3, was significantly higher than the value of 1.4-9.9 ng m-3 observed on the west shore side. The average concentrations of T-Hg in the forest soils of the west shore side and those of the east shore side were 0.081 ± 0.028 mg kg-1 and 0.496 ± 0.439 mg kg-1, respectively. In the vertical distribution of T-Hg in the soil of the east shore side, a higher concentration was observed near the surface. For the vertical variations in T-Hg in the marine sediment, higher values were observed near the estuary, and the vertical variations in core samples showed an increase in mercury concentration toward the surface. The highest concentration of T-Hg in sediment, 9.5 mg kg-1, which was 2 orders of magnitude higher than the background levels of this area, was found near the river mouth. The T-Hg, org-Hg, and TOC levels showed a positive correlation, suggesting that the rivers are the main sources of T-Hg and org-Hg in the bay. Although the fish sample containing a mercury content higher than the regulatory level for fish and shellfish of 0.4 mg kg-1 in Japan was only one of 42 samples, the percentage of org-Hg in fish samples was 91 ± 18%. Mercury released into the surroundings by the ASGM activities can be converted into methylmercury and affect the bay's ecosystem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Tomiyasu
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Kagoshima University, 1-21-35 Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan.
| | - Sora Yasumatsu
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Kagoshima University, 1-21-35 Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Kodamatani
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Kagoshima University, 1-21-35 Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Ryo Kanzaki
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Kagoshima University, 1-21-35 Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Chisato Takenaka
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Shuichi Miyagawa
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
| | | | - Akiko Ikeguchi
- College of Education, Yokohama National University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Ian A Navarrete
- Department of Environmental Science, Southern Leyte State University-Hinunangan Campus, Ambacon, Hinunangan, Southern, Leyte, Philippines
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Promote Social Order to Achieve Social and Ecological Justice for Communities to Prevent Illegal Artisanal Small-Scale Gold Mining. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14159530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
The Indonesian National Police (POLRI) has succeeded in suppressing illegal artisanal small-scale gold mining (ASGM) that has been taking place in Mount Botak, Buru Regency, Maluku Province, Indonesia. However, POLRI has only succeeded in creating a temporary absence of illegal ASGM. This study aims to analyse an additional role POLRI could play in achieving social and ecological justice by promoting a positive and functioning social order. We used a case study method to collect data from documentation and literature studies on illegal ASGM cases in Mount Botak. The findings of this study reveal that pressure by POLRI against national and local governments may have a positive impact on the absence of illegal ASGM. This study recommends that POLRI should, in addition to the performance of its formal role in enforcing the law against illegal ASGM and maintaining security and order, play a role as a pressure group acting on national and local governments to promote social order and to achieve social and ecological justice for communities around local mining areas.
Collapse
|
5
|
Chauhan D, Kumar A, Warkar SG. Synthesis, characterization and metal ions sensing applications of meta-benziporphodimethene-embedded polyacrylamide/carboxymethyl guargum polymeric hydrogels in water. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2022; 43:991-1002. [PMID: 32811349 DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2020.1812730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
We have developed a robust procedure for the visual on-site detection of zinc, cadmium and mercury metal ions in an aqueous medium using a polymeric hydrogel matrix-based colorimetric sensor. Zn2+, Cd2+and Hg2+, owing to their biological significant value and environmental harm, have attracted more attention. The selective detection of Zn2+, Cd2+and Hg2+ metal ions has always been challenging due to their closed-shell d10 electronic configuration which makes them spectroscopically silent. A polyacrylamide/carboxymethyl guargum polymeric hydrogel-based metal ion sensor was synthesized by in situ embedding 11, 16-bis (phenyl)-6, 6, 21, 21-tetramethyl-m-benzi-6,21-porphodimethene (meta-BPDM) in a host hydrogel. The meta-BPDM-embedded hydrogel shows high stability, sensitivity and selectivity when it is dipped into the aqueous solutions of Zn2+, Cd2+and Hg2+ metal ions. During detection, the binding of these metal ions in hydrogel causes hydrogel to change from red to bluish-green which was visually detected and confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy. The meta-BPDM-embedded polymeric hydrogel was characterized by using solid-state UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis and its sensing properties were studied. The meta-BPDM-embedded polymeric hydrogel was found to be an excellent colorimetric sensor for Zn2+, Cd2+ and Hg2+ in aqueous medium without leaching of meta-BPDM from the hydrogel. The selectivity to sense these ions is mainly dependent on the binding constant of these metal ions with the meta-BPDM embedded in the hydrogel. The sensitivity of the hydrogel was 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/L with Hg2+, Zn2+ and Cd2+, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepti Chauhan
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Delhi Technological University, Delhi, India
| | - Anil Kumar
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Delhi Technological University, Delhi, India
| | - Sudhir G Warkar
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Delhi Technological University, Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Odukoya AM, Uruowhe B, Watts MJ, Hamilton EM, Marriott AL, Alo B, Anene NC. Assessment of bioaccessibility and health risk of mercury within soil of artisanal gold mine sites, Niger, North-central part of Nigeria. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2022; 44:893-909. [PMID: 34115268 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-021-00991-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of mercury (Hg) in the environment globally has been linked largely to its use for gold processing. In this research, ore samples, agricultural soil and mine wastes were taken within the vicinity of an artisanal gold mine and processing sites in Niger state, a north-central part of Nigeria to determine Hg contamination in the environment and estimate the potential hazard to health. The values of Hg measured in ore, agricultural soil and mine wastes ranged between 0.03 and 5.9, 0.002 and 5.57 and 0.19 and 20.99 mg/kg, respectively, with the majority of samples observed above the crustal average values of 0.003 mg/kg. All of the samples were 100 times greater than the USEPA residential soil screening level of 0.0023 mg/kg, but were lower than comparable mine sites within the same region. Contamination indices were used to demonstrate the potential exposure to Hg contamination in the study area which ranged from a medium to high level of contamination. Average daily dose and hazard quotient (HQ) were calculated for adults and children in the study area and decreased in the following order: ADDvapour > ADDingestion > ADDdermal > ADDinhalation. The non-carcinogenic health risk index (HI) of Hg calculated for children and adults in the study area was children: 7.42, 2.19, 1.49 and adults: 4.45, 1.26, 1.19, for mine wastes, agricultural soil and ore, respectively. All of these values were higher than a considered safe level (= 1) and therefore showed that Hg posed a serious non-carcinogenic HI for both adults and children exposed to the soil in the study area. The bioaccessible fraction as a measure of ingestion for Hg was generally < 13% across all sample matrices, suggesting a low bioaccessibility. An HQ incorporating bioaccessible data (BHQ) ranged between 0.000005 and 4.06 with a mean value of 0.62. Values for the BHQ were still > 1, threshold limit in some samples and showed that Hg could present a risk to health via ingestion, although further research is required to assess dermal and inhalation bioaccessibility to assess fully the risk to residents. However, the values were lower than the non-carcinogenic health risk index, which is assumed to be overestimated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abiodun M Odukoya
- Department of Geosciences, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, Nigeria.
| | - Bernard Uruowhe
- Department of Geosciences, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Michael J Watts
- Inorganic Geochemistry, Centre for Environmental Geochemistry, British Geological Survey, Nottingham, UK
| | - Elliott M Hamilton
- Inorganic Geochemistry, Centre for Environmental Geochemistry, British Geological Survey, Nottingham, UK
| | - Andrew L Marriott
- Inorganic Geochemistry, Centre for Environmental Geochemistry, British Geological Survey, Nottingham, UK
| | - Babajide Alo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Nnamdi C Anene
- Department of Artisanal and Small- Scale Mining, Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Abuja, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang J, Dai J, Chen G, Jiang F. Role of sulfur biogeochemical cycle in mercury methylation in estuarine sediments: A review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 423:126964. [PMID: 34523493 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Estuaries are sinks for mercury, in which the most toxic mercury form, neurotoxic methylmercury (MeHg), is produced by mercury methylators and accumulates in estuarine sediments. In the same area, the microbial sulfur cycle is triggered by sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), which is considered as the main mercury methylator. In this review, we analyzed the sulfur and mercury speciation in sediments from 70 estuaries globally. Abundant mercury and sulfur species were found in the global estuarine sediments. Up to 727 μg THg/g dw and 880 ng MeHg/g dw were found in estuarine sediments, showing the serious risk of mercury to aquatic ecological systems. Significant correlations between sulfur and MeHg concentrations were discovered. Especially, the porewater sulfate concentration positively correlated to MeHg production. The sulfur cycle affects MeHg formation via activating mercury methylator activities and limiting mercury bioavailability, leading to promote or inhibit MeHg formation at different sulfur speciation concentrations. These results suggest that sulfur biogeochemical cycle plays an important role in mercury methylation in estuarine sediments, and the effect of the sulfur cycle on mercury methylation deserves to be further explored in future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinting Wang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Technology Lab, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control and Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ji Dai
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Technology Lab, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control and Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Guanghao Chen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Technology Lab, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control and Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, School of Environmental Science & Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Adyasari D, Pratama MA, Teguh NA, Sabdaningsih A, Kusumaningtyas MA, Dimova N. Anthropogenic impact on Indonesian coastal water and ecosystems: Current status and future opportunities. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 171:112689. [PMID: 34256325 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Indonesia, the world's largest archipelagic country and the fourth most populated nation, has struggled with coastal water pollution in the last decades. With the increasing population in coastal urban cities, more land-based pollutants are transported to the coastal water and adversely affected the tropical ecosystems. This paper provides an overview of anthropogenic pollutant studies in Indonesian coastal water and ecosystems from 1986 to 2021. Nutrients, heavy metals, organic pollutants, and plastic debris are the most-studied contaminants. We found that 82%, 54% and 50% of the studies exceeding nutrients, heavy metals, and organic pollutants standard limit, respectively; thus, indicating poor water quality status in part of Indonesian coastal water. The coral reef ecosystems is found to be the most sensitive to anthropogenic disturbance. The potential effect of climate change, new coastal pollution hotspots in eastern Indonesia, marine anthropogenic sources, legacy/emerging pollutants, and the need for research related to the biological contamination, are discussed for future opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dini Adyasari
- Department of Geological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa 35487, USA.
| | | | - Novi Andriany Teguh
- Department of Civil Engineering, Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology, Surabaya 60111, Indonesia
| | - Aninditia Sabdaningsih
- Department of Aquatic Resources, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Diponegoro University, Semarang 50275, Indonesia; Tropical Marine Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Diponegoro University, Semarang 50275, Indonesia
| | | | - Natasha Dimova
- Department of Geological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa 35487, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sommar J, Osterwalder S, Zhu W. Recent advances in understanding and measurement of Hg in the environment: Surface-atmosphere exchange of gaseous elemental mercury (Hg 0). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 721:137648. [PMID: 32182462 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.137648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The atmosphere is the major transport pathway for distribution of mercury (Hg) globally. Gaseous elemental mercury (GEM, hereafter Hg0) is the predominant form in both anthropogenic and natural emissions. Evaluation of the efficacy of reductions in emissions set by the UN's Minamata Convention (UN-MC) is critically dependent on the knowledge of the dynamics of the global Hg cycle. Of these dynamics including e.g. red-ox reactions, methylation-demethylation and dry-wet deposition, poorly constrained atmosphere-surface Hg0 fluxes especially limit predictability of the timescales of its global biogeochemical cycle. This review focuses on Hg0 flux field observational studies, namely the theory, applications, strengths, and limitations of the various experimental methodologies applied to gauge the exchange flux and decipher active sub-processes. We present an in-depth review, a comprehensive literature synthesis, and methodological and instrumentation advances for terrestrial and marine Hg0 flux studies in recent years. In particular, we outline the theory of a wide range of measurement techniques and detail the operational protocols. Today, the most frequently used measurement techniques to determine the net Hg0 flux (>95% of the published flux data) are dynamic flux chambers for small-scale and micrometeorological approaches for large-scale measurements. Furthermore, top-down approaches based on Hg0 concentration measurements have been applied as tools to better constrain Hg emissions as an independent way to e.g. challenge emission inventories. This review is an up-dated, thoroughly revised edition of Sommar et al. 2013 (DOI: 10.1080/10643389.2012.671733). To the tabulation of >100 cited flux studies 1988-2009 given in the former publication, we have here listed corresponding studies published during the last decade with a few exceptions (2008-2019). During that decade, Hg stable isotope ratios of samples involved in atmosphere-terrestrial interaction is at hand and provide in combination with concentration and/or flux measurements novel constraints to quantitatively and qualitatively assess the bi-directional Hg0 flux. Recent efforts in the development of relaxed eddy accumulation and eddy covariance Hg0 flux methods bear the potential to facilitate long-term, ecosystem-scale flux measurements to reduce the prevailing large uncertainties in Hg0 flux estimates. Standardization of methods for Hg0 flux measurements is crucial to investigate how land-use change and how climate warming impact ecosystem-specific Hg0 sink-source characteristics and to validate frequently applied model parameterizations describing the regional and global scale Hg cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Sommar
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang, China.
| | - Stefan Osterwalder
- Institut des Géosciences de l'Environnement, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, IRD, Grenoble INP, Grenoble, France
| | - Wei Zhu
- Department of Forest Ecology and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Umeå, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tomiyasu T, Hamada YK, Kodamatani H, Hidayati N, Rahajoe JS. Transport of mercury species by river from artisanal and small-scale gold mining in West Java, Indonesia. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:25262-25274. [PMID: 31256393 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-05718-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
To estimate the impact of mercury discharged from artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) activity, variations in the concentrations of elemental mercury (Hg0), mercury ion (Hg2+), particulate mercury (P-Hg), and total mercury in filtered river water (FT-Hg) were investigated from sampling locations extending from 10 km upstream to 30 km downstream of ASGM operations in West Java, Indonesia. The average of the annual concentrations at the ASGM site from 2013 to 2017 were 0.14-0.85 μg L-1, 0.27-12.9 μg L-1, 4.3-49.5 μg L-1, and 1.2-12.5 μg L-1 for Hg0, Hg2+, P-Hg, and FT-Hg, respectively. The concentration of mercury species decreased as the distance from the ASGM site increased, while the ratio of P-Hg increased towards the lower reaches of the river system, with the percentage of P-Hg estimated at 90% of Hg at the sample location furthest downstream. A high mercury concentration of 600 mg kg-1 was observed for suspended particulate matter (SPM) at the ASGM site. The SPM maintained a high concentration of mercury, even in the downstream area. In the annual variations of the mercury species from 2013 to 2017, FT-Hg and P-Hg concentrations tended to decrease from 2016, which suggested a decline of ASGM activity in this area. However, SPM and river sediment showed no apparent changes in their mercury concentrations over this period, indicating that the contamination in the river system is persistent and does not recover quickly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Tomiyasu
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Kagoshima University, 1-21-35 Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan.
- Environmental Safety Center, Kagoshima University, 1-21-35 Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan.
| | - Yuriko Kono Hamada
- Environmental Safety Center, Kagoshima University, 1-21-35 Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Kodamatani
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Kagoshima University, 1-21-35 Korimoto, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Nuril Hidayati
- Research Center for Biology, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, JL, Raya Jakarta, Bogor Km.46 Cibinong, Bogor, 16911, Indonesia
| | - Joeni Setijo Rahajoe
- Research Center for Biology, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, JL, Raya Jakarta, Bogor Km.46 Cibinong, Bogor, 16911, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Harayashiki CAY, Reichelt-Brushett A, Butcher P, Benkendorff K. Ingestion of inorganic mercury by juvenile black tiger prawns (Penaeus monodon) alters biochemical markers. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2018; 27:1225-1236. [PMID: 30187358 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-018-1975-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
There is a lack of information regarding the effects on biochemical markers in invertebrates diet-exposed to inorganic mercury. In the present study, juvenile black tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) were fed with food dosed with mercuric chloride (low: 0.2 mg kg-1; medium: 0.77 mg kg-1; high: 1.41 mg kg-1; higher: 2.52 mg kg-1) and control (0.03 mg kg-1) over 12 days. At the end of exposure periods, ventral nerve cord, compound eyes and muscle were dissected for biochemical marker analyses (acetylcholinesterase - AChE; lipoperoxidation - LPO; glutathione S-transferase - GST; catalase - CAT). Prawn muscle showed an increase in total mercury concentration over time for low and high treatments, but did not show an accumulation in comparison to controls. AChE activity tended to decrease over time in all tissues. CAT activity increased over time in controls and lower dose treatments but was suppressed in the higher treatment relative to controls on day 12; indicating that inorganic mercury is impacting the normal stress response by reducing the capacity to degrade hydrogen peroxide. In contrast, no effect was observed in LPO and GST activity. A depuration treatment was performed and compared to medium treatment; only AChE and GST activities from muscle showed significant difference, with AChE activity from depuration treatment lower than medium treatment, while the opposite was observed in GST activity. Overall, the low mercury accumulation observed over 12 days of exposure may have limited the biochemical stress responses, which could also have limited the detection of differences in the depuration treatment relative to medium treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cyntia Ayumi Yokota Harayashiki
- Marine Ecology Research Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia.
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, PO Box 4321, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450, Australia.
- CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasilia, DF, 70040-020, Brazil.
| | - Amanda Reichelt-Brushett
- Marine Ecology Research Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
| | - Paul Butcher
- Marine Ecology Research Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, PO Box 4321, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450, Australia
- NSW Department of Primary Industries, PO Box 4321, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450, Australia
| | - Kirsten Benkendorff
- Marine Ecology Research Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
A Case Study of Heavy Metal Pollution in Water of Bone River by Artisanal Small-Scale Gold Mine Activities in Eastern Part of Gorontalo, Indonesia. WATER 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/w10111507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Bone River, which is located in the eastern part of Gorontalo, Indonesia, has an issue of contamination by heavy metals due to artisanal small-scale gold mine (ASGM) activities. This river is used as a source of water by inhabitants living along the river, due to the lack of another clean water supply. The purpose of this study is to investigate the concentration of As from the mining site alongside Bone River, and to reveal the As pollution source. Water and sediment samples were collected from ASGM and along Bone River to the delta. The concentrations of As, Hg, and Pb in water samples were identified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP–MS), while concentrations in sediment samples were determined by particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE). Results showed that the concentrations of As, Hg, and Pb in water ranged from 66 to 82,500 µg/L, 17 to 2080 µg/L, and 11 to 1670 µg/L, respectively. These levels exceeded, by 1000 to 10,000 times, the safe limits of drinking water defined by the World Health Organization, which indicated that Bone River water is not safe for drinking or cooking purposes.
Collapse
|
13
|
Hudson‐Edwards KA. Mining and Planetary Health: A GeoHealth-Led Special Collection. GEOHEALTH 2018; 2:278-282. [PMID: 32159001 PMCID: PMC7007067 DOI: 10.1029/2018gh000156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Mining is a vital part of the global economy, but unmanaged releases of mine wastes can affect the health of humans, ecosystems, water, soil and Earth surface environments (e.g., rivers and estuaries). New technological developments and multidisciplinary collaborations are leading to new insights into the relationship between mining and the health of the Earth. In recognition of the importance of this topic, GeoHealth is leading in the creation of a special collection of papers on the theme of Mining and Planetary Health, to summarize the current state of knowledge, outline topics for urgent action and further research, and highlight positive efforts in environmental and health protection. Submissions are invited from researchers investigating the impacts of mining at the intersection of the Earth and environmental sciences and human, ecosystem, and planetary health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen A. Hudson‐Edwards
- Environment and Sustainability Institute and Camborne School of MinesUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Esdaile LJ, Chalker JM. The Mercury Problem in Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining. Chemistry 2018; 24:6905-6916. [PMID: 29314284 PMCID: PMC5969110 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201704840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Mercury-dependent artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is the largest source of mercury pollution on Earth. In this practice, elemental mercury is used to extract gold from ore as an amalgam. The amalgam is typically isolated by hand and then heated-often with a torch or over a stove-to distill the mercury and isolate the gold. Mercury release from tailings and vaporized mercury exceed 1000 tonnes each year from ASGM. The health effects on the miners are dire, with inhaled mercury leading to neurological damage and other health issues. The communities near these mines are also affected due to mercury contamination of water and soil and subsequent accumulation in food staples, such as fish-a major source of dietary protein in many ASGM regions. The risks to children are also substantial, with mercury emissions from ASGM resulting in both physical and mental disabilities and compromised development. Between 10 and 19 million people use mercury to mine for gold in more than 70 countries, making mercury pollution from ASGM a global issue. With the Minamata Convention on Mercury entering force this year, there is political motivation to help overcome the problem of mercury in ASGM. In this effort, chemists can play a central role. Here, the problem of mercury in ASGM is reviewed with a discussion on how the chemistry community can contribute solutions. Introducing portable and low-cost mercury sensors, inexpensive and scalable remediation technologies, novel methods to prevent mercury uptake in fish and food crops, and efficient and easy-to-use mercury-free mining techniques are all ways in which the chemistry community can help. To meet these challenges, it is critical that new technologies or techniques are low-cost and adaptable to the remote and under-resourced areas in which ASGM is most common. The problem of mercury pollution in ASGM is inherently a chemistry problem. We therefore encourage the chemistry community to consider and address this issue that affects the health of millions of people.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louisa J. Esdaile
- Centre for NanoScale Science and Technology, College of Science and EngineeringFlinders UniversitySturt RoadBedford Park, South AustraliaAustralia
| | - Justin M. Chalker
- Centre for NanoScale Science and Technology, College of Science and EngineeringFlinders UniversitySturt RoadBedford Park, South AustraliaAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Turull M, Komarova T, Noller B, Fontàs C, Díez S. Evaluation of mercury in a freshwater environment impacted by an organomercury fungicide using diffusive gradient in thin films. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 621:1475-1484. [PMID: 29107373 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.10.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The use of pesticides to manage pest problems for crop protection is common practice around the world, and their accumulation in soils and contamination of water bodies is a global environmental problem. In Australia, an organomercury (Hg)-based fungicide is the most popular for control of pineapple disease of sugarcane. However, the presence of Hg is of great concern because of potential adverse effects in the environment. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the residual levels of Hg in soils of sugarcane cultivation from a catchment in North Queensland (Australia). Mercury was surveyed in soils close to the Tully River at 3 different depths (100, 200 and 300mm). Additionally, total Hg (THg) and the labile fraction of Hg in water (measured by the diffusive gradient in thin film technique) were determined in the Tully River. A pristine site, the Tully Gorge National Park upstream of sugarcane fields, was selected for background Hg concentration estimation. In soils, Hg levels ranged from 18 to 264μgkg-1, with one of the soil samples being almost 10 times higher than at other sites at the surface level (199μgkg-1). Total and labile concentrations of Hg in water increased from the Hg-elevated soil sampling sites (0.085μgL-1 and 0.061μgL-1) to downstream sites (0.082μgL-1 and 0.066μgL-1), which is likely due to agricultural runoff. Indeed, except for the upstream control site, the THg concentration in water is over the limit permitted by the Australian freshwater quality guideline for protection of 99% species (0.06μgL-1). These findings point to the need to perform further research to reveal the mechanisms for release of Hg from soil and whether this might be causing important adverse effects to the Great Barrier Reef located in front of this river catchment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Turull
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA -CSIC), E-08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tatiana Komarova
- Queensland Health Forensic and Scientific Services (QHFSS), QLD 4108, Australia
| | - Barry Noller
- University of Queensland, Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation, Sustainable Minerals Institute, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Clàudia Fontàs
- Department of Chemistry, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany 69, 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Sergi Díez
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDÆA -CSIC), E-08034, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hsu-Kim H, Eckley CS, Achá D, Feng X, Gilmour CC, Jonsson S, Mitchell CPJ. Challenges and opportunities for managing aquatic mercury pollution in altered landscapes. AMBIO 2018; 47:141-169. [PMID: 29388127 PMCID: PMC5794684 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-017-1006-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The environmental cycling of mercury (Hg) can be affected by natural and anthropogenic perturbations. Of particular concern is how these disruptions increase mobilization of Hg from sites and alter the formation of monomethylmercury (MeHg), a bioaccumulative form of Hg for humans and wildlife. The scientific community has made significant advances in recent years in understanding the processes contributing to the risk of MeHg in the environment. The objective of this paper is to synthesize the scientific understanding of how Hg cycling in the aquatic environment is influenced by landscape perturbations at the local scale, perturbations that include watershed loadings, deforestation, reservoir and wetland creation, rice production, urbanization, mining and industrial point source pollution, and remediation. We focus on the major challenges associated with each type of alteration, as well as management opportunities that could lessen both MeHg levels in biota and exposure to humans. For example, our understanding of approximate response times to changes in Hg inputs from various sources or landscape alterations could lead to policies that prioritize the avoidance of certain activities in the most vulnerable systems and sequestration of Hg in deep soil and sediment pools. The remediation of Hg pollution from historical mining and other industries is shifting towards in situ technologies that could be less disruptive and less costly than conventional approaches. Contemporary artisanal gold mining has well-documented impacts with respect to Hg; however, significant social and political challenges remain in implementing effective policies to minimize Hg use. Much remains to be learned as we strive towards the meaningful application of our understanding for stakeholders, including communities living near Hg-polluted sites, environmental policy makers, and scientists and engineers tasked with developing watershed management solutions. Site-specific assessments of MeHg exposure risk will require new methods to predict the impacts of anthropogenic perturbations and an understanding of the complexity of Hg cycling at the local scale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heileen Hsu-Kim
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Duke University, 121 Hudson Hall, Box 90287, Durham, NC 27708 USA
| | - Chris S. Eckley
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region-10, 1200 6th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101 USA
| | - Dario Achá
- Unidad de Calidad Ambiental, Instituto de Ecología, Carrera de Biología, Universidad Mayor de San Andrés, P.O. Box 10077, La Paz, Bolivia
| | - Xinbin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang, 550002 China
| | - Cynthia C. Gilmour
- Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, 647 Contees Wharf Rd, Edgewater, MD 21037-0028 USA
| | - Sofi Jonsson
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry, Stockholm University, Svante Arrhenius väg 8, 11418 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carl P. J. Mitchell
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, ON M1C 1A4 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mangifera indica as Bioindicator of Mercury Atmospheric Contamination in an ASGM Area in North Gorontalo Regency, Indonesia. GEOSCIENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/geosciences8010031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
18
|
Reichelt-Brushett AJ, Thomas B, Howe PL, Male Y, Clark MW. Characterisation of artisanal mine waste on Buru Island, Indonesia and toxicity to the brittle star Amphipholis squamata. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 189:171-179. [PMID: 28934657 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.09.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Artisanal small-scale gold mining (ASGM) using mercury (Hg) amalgamation commenced on Buru Island, Indonesia, in 2012, but was halted in 2015 due to concerns of widespread Hg contamination. Much of the Hg used in the mining process is lost to trommel waste which is disposed of in settlement ponds that drain into adjacent waterways and into Kayeli Bay. Several thousand unmanaged trommel sites and associated tailing ponds exist on Buru Island. This study shows that waste from the Marloso trommel at the Gogrea site contained 203 mg/kg total Hg (THg), with a negligible proportion present as bioavailable methyl Hg (MeHg) and a low total organic carbon content. There are currently very few tools available for ecotoxicological risk assessment of mine tailings for tropical marine ecosystems, and we support the development of Tailings Toxicity Tests (TTTs) and describe laboratory toxicity test methods using the cosmopolitan benthic echinoderm Amphipholis squamata. Undiluted trommel waste caused 100% mortality of A. squamata within 48 h, and a 96-h LC50 of 6.7% w/w trommel waste (4 mg/kg THg) was estimated. Sub-lethal effects on the water vascular system of the brittle star were assessed by quantification of the Ability to Right Itself (ARI), and a 48-h EC50 of 7.3% w/w trommel waste (14.4 mg/kg THg) was estimated. The results show that trommel waste produced on Buru Island is highly contaminated with THg and is acutely toxic, raising serious concern for receiving ecosystems where Hg methylation to more toxic and bioavailable forms is likely.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Reichelt-Brushett
- Marine Ecology Research Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia; School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia.
| | - Bernard Thomas
- School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Pelli L Howe
- Marine Ecology Research Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia; School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Yusthinus Male
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Pattimura University, Ambon, Indonesia
| | - Malcolm W Clark
- Marine Ecology Research Centre, School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia; School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Cavoura O, Brombach CC, Cortis R, Davidson CM, Gajdosechova Z, Keenan HE, Krupp EM. Mercury alkylation in freshwater sediments from Scottish canals. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 183:27-35. [PMID: 28531556 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.05.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2016] [Revised: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Mercury concentrations were investigated in freshwater sediment from two canals in Scotland, UK. High concentrations found in the Union Canal (35.3-1200 mg kg-1) likely originate from historical munitions manufacture, with lower levels in the Forth & Clyde Canal (0.591-9.14 mg kg-1). Concentrations of methylmercury (MeHg) were low - from 6.02 to 18.6 μg kg-1 (0.001-0.023% of total Hg) in the Union Canal and from 3.44 to 14.1 μg kg-1 (0.11-0.58% of total Hg) in the Forth & Clyde Canal - and there was a significant inverse relationship between total Hg concentration and %MeHg. Total Hg concentration was significantly negatively correlated with pH and positively correlated with Fe content (in the Union Canal only) but not with organic matter, S content or the proportion of clay present. The MeHg concentration was not correlated with any of the above sediment parameters. Ethylmercury was detected in the most highly contaminated sediments from the Union Canal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga Cavoura
- National School of Public Health, Dept. of Environmental and Public Health Engineering, Athens, Greece; University of Strathclyde, Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
| | - C C Brombach
- University of Aberdeen, Dept. of Chemistry, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
| | - R Cortis
- University of Strathclyde, WestCHEM, Dept. of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - C M Davidson
- University of Strathclyde, WestCHEM, Dept. of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
| | - Z Gajdosechova
- University of Aberdeen, Dept. of Chemistry, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
| | - H E Keenan
- University of Strathclyde, Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
| | - E M Krupp
- University of Aberdeen, Dept. of Chemistry, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK.
| |
Collapse
|