Accumulation of Toxic Heavy Metals in Groundwater Around Botshabelo Non-engineered Landfill Site, South Africa
摘要
Non-engineered municipal solid waste landfills pose significant threats to the surrounding environment. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the concentrations of toxic heavy metals in groundwater surrounding the Botshabelo non-engineered landfill site in South Africa. Four groundwater samples were collected randomly during early summer season. The levels of toxic heavy metals in groundwater sources were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and ion chromatography. The concentrations of heavy metals were as Al (0.08), As ( Mn > Al = U > Ba > Mo > B = Fe > Cr = Cu = V > Zn while As, Sb, Cd, Co, Ni, Pb, and Se were below limit of detection. When compared to the national standards (SANS and DWAF) and international standards (WHO), the mean values of toxic heavy metals such as Mn and U were above all drinking water standards (SANS and WHO) and irrigation standards (DWAF) while Mo was above DWAF acceptable standard for irrigation. To lessen water contamination in the surrounding area, better waste management procedures and well-designed landfill sites must be built. It is also recommended that proper segregation of biodegradable, non-biodegradable and recyclable materials such as plastics and metals be implemented. The outcomes of the study may assist local government bodies in determining appropriate treatment techniques and developing waste management policies and strategies.