article · Chemistry and Ecology
This study reviews the sources, contamination pathways, environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and ecotoxicological impacts of heavy metals. It synthesises existing literature to highlight that heavy metals are pervasive and persist in the environment, posing significant threats to ecological balance and human health. A key finding is their transfer through food chains, leading to bioaccumulation in diverse organisms and raising concerns about potential toxicity, including for humans. The research emphasises the critical need to assess heavy metal pollution and its ramifications, underscoring the importance of bioindicators and biomarkers in evaluating environmental stressors and their impact on both biota and human populations. The study advocates for proactive monitoring and mitigation measures.
Heavy metals are widespread pollutants that can accumulate in living organisms, including humans, through the food chain. Understanding their pathways and impacts is vital for protecting our environment and public health. This research highlights the importance of monitoring and developing strategies to reduce exposure and mitigate their harmful effects.
This foundational review research highlights the critical need for improved methods to monitor heavy metal contamination and its biological impacts. It could inform the development of new bioindicator and biomarker technologies for environmental agencies, public health organisations, and industries to assess pollution levels and risks. This is early-stage research, identifying a need rather than offering a specific product or service.
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Heavy metals, pervasive in the environment due to natural processes and human activities, pose substantial threats to ecosystems and human health. This study aims to delve into the sources, contamination pathways in natural waters, and subsequent bioaccumulation of heavy metals across various organisms. The overview encompasses an exploration of the environmental persistence, bioaccumulation dynamics, and ecotoxicological impacts of these metals. Methodologically, this research undertakes a comprehensive review synthesizing existing literature and studies on heavy metal contamination, bioaccumulation mechanisms, and ecotoxicity. Key findings highlight the protracted environmental persistence of heavy metals, perpetuating significant threats to ecological balance and human well-being. Notably, the transfer of these metals through food chains culminates in their bioaccumulation in diverse organisms, raising concerns about potential toxicity, including human exposure. The discussion underscores the imperative nature of assessing heavy metal pollution and its ramifications on ecosystems and human health. Emphasizing the essential role of bioindicators and biomarkers, this article elucidates their significance in evaluating heavy metal-induced environmental stressors and their impact on both biota and human populations. This comprehensive study contributes to a nuanced understanding of heavy metal dynamics, advocating for proactive measures in monitoring and mitigating their deleterious effects on ecosystems and human health.
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DOI: 10.1080/02757540.2024.2306839
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