The effects of high levels of mercury in soil can be dangerous to wildlife and human health. Mercury is a common element in air, soil and water. It is toxic to humans and animals in large concentrations. When mercury is released into the environment, it can become concentrated in living things, especially those in the food system, causing health risks.
When mercury is found in high levels in the soil, it is called "mercury pollution" and can be caused by natural and anthropogenic (human) activities. Sources of mercury contamination in soil include volcanic eruptions, forest fires, rock weathering, and atmospheric deposition of mercury. Human sources include fossil fuel burning, industrial activities such as mining and smelting, and agricultural activities such as the use of fertilizers and pesticides.
The most important effect of a large concentration of mercury in the soil is the contamination of food. Mercury is highly toxic and can accumulate in living organisms, meaning mercury concentrations can increase as they move up the food chain. This can have devastating effects on predators such as fish, birds and mammals that can eat them
The presence of high levels of mercury in soil can have adverse effects on the environment and human health. Some of the effects of high and low mercury levels include:
- Contamination of crops and food: High levels of mercury in the soil can lead to contamination of crops grown in the soil, resulting in an increase in mercury in food products.
- Contamination of water sources: Mercury in the ground can also contaminate water sources by leaching into groundwater or flowing into surface water. This can have a significant impact on marine life and the overall health of marine ecosystems.
- Wildlife toxicity: High levels of mercury in soil can be toxic to wildlife, including birds, fish and other animals. This can lead to population decline and changes in food systems.
- Human health effects: long-term exposure to high levels of mercury in soil can cause various health problems in humans, including neurological damage, kidney problems, and respiratory problems.
- Imbalance in soil: High levels of mercury in soil can disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem, causing changes in plant and animal life, and changes in soil chemistry.
Therefore, it is important to monitor and control mercury levels in soil to reduce its negative effects on the environment and human health.