Environmental pollution around the Muzhievo gold‐base metal deposit, Ukraine
Abstract
Purpose
To give information about the study of environmental pollution as the result of mining activity from minor toxic elements (Hg, Sb, As, Cd, Tl) which are typical for ores from base metal, gold‐base metal and gold deposits.
Design/methodology/approach
In order to determine the intensity and extent of pollution as well as the possible threat to the population, ecogeochemical sampling (and consequent laboratory analysis of samples) of dumps, soil, and both surface and ground waters was completed. Analytical study of samples was completed, data were interpreted and maps constructed. To estimate the degree of soil and water contamination with toxic elements, the maximum allowable concentration (MAC) and background content (BC) were chosen as the main criteria of the hazard caused by toxic elements.
Findings
The paper shows the distribution of As, Hg, Sb, Tl, Cd and some “heavy” element (Pb, Zn, Mn, Ni) concentrations in the environment (soil, water) around the Muzhievo gold‐base metal deposit, and indicates the major role of the waste dumps near the deposit as a source of pollution by toxic elements.
Practical implications
The study gives an example of environmental pollution by toxic elements caused by mining activity around one gold‐base metal deposit in the Transcarpathians. The study could be a guide for mine officials in the development of preventive measures against pollution by toxic elements in soil and water around Muzhievo village.
Originality/value
This paper presents useful information and offers practical help (approach, data interpretation) to researchers and ecologists studying the distribution of minor toxic elements in the environment around active and closed mines in the mercury‐base metal, base metal, gold‐base metal and gold deposits.
Keywords
Citation
Shumlyanskyy, V., Ivantyshyna, O., Makarenko, M. and Subbotin, A. (2005), "Environmental pollution around the Muzhievo gold‐base metal deposit, Ukraine", Management of Environmental Quality, Vol. 16 No. 6, pp. 593-604. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777830510623664
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited