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oa Assessment and Monitoring of Environmental Risks from Soil Contamination by Heavy Metals Due to the War
- Publisher: European Association of Geoscientists & Engineers
- Source: Conference Proceedings, 18th International Conference Monitoring of Geological Processes and Ecological Condition of the Environment, Apr 2025, Volume 2025, p.1 - 5
Abstract
The study focuses on assessing and monitoring of the ecological and toxicological state of the soil, and environmental risks from soil contamination with heavy metals due to the war (using the example of the Prolisnenska territorial community of the Chuguyiv district of the Kharkiv region, Ukraine). The study highlights the damage caused by the Russian-Ukrainian war, including pollution from heavy metals, which pose serious risks to environment and human health. The methodology involved soil sampling and laboratory analysis to determine contamination levels and ecological risks. Heavy metal concentrations were measured, and contamination indices were calculated using environmental risk assessment methods. The results indicate varying levels of soil pollution, with some areas classified as hazardous or extremely hazardous due to high concentrations of toxic elements. The study found that military impacts, such as tank damage and self-propelled artillery system explosions, caused severe soil contamination, with risk indices exceeding safe limits. Some areas exhibited self-recovery tendencies, while others showed increasing contamination levels, necessitating ongoing monitoring. The research underscores the urgency of environmental restoration efforts and the need for continued assessment to mitigate long-term ecological and health risks. The findings contribute to strategies for sustainable land management and post-war rehabilitation of affected areas.
