Publications by authors named "Luis Fernandez-Pozo"
An abandoned sphalerite mining area in the southwest (SW) of the Iberian Peninsula was studied to evaluate the impact that the presence of metal(loid)s has on soil and ecosystem health. Five zones were delimited: sludge, dump, scrubland, riparian zone, and dehesa. Critical total levels of lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), thallium (Tl), and chromium (Cr), well above the limit indicative of toxicity problems, were found in the areas close to the sources of contamination.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFWe have studied, in a protected area with intense hunting activity, the consequences of the abandonment of facilities and tailings of a metal mine. The area studied has the peculiarity of having a steep slope and containing a water reservoir for irrigation and human consumption. Soil, sludge, vegetation, and water samples were analyzed, in which many metal(loid)s exceeded the generic reference levels (NGR) established for the health of the ecosystem.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFArticle Synopsis
- A study of an abandoned lead mine in SW Spain showed high levels of lead contamination in surface soil and pastures, with concentrations measured between 129 and 1053 mg/kg, far exceeding safe levels for agricultural soil.
- Despite elevated lead levels, the bioavailable fractions in the soil were low, indicating limited uptake by plants and animals.
- The native plant species that absorbed the most lead were identified, but assessments revealed that the contamination posed no significant toxicity risk to local wildlife and livestock.