Distribution of heavy metals from tailings ponds and landfills into underground and surface waters

Abstract

Heavy metals contaminate underground and surface waters from illegally constructed industrial and municipal landfills. Numerous papers on the subject contain undeniable evidence, and they have determined heavy metal migration into nature by measuring concentrations in underground and surface waters near tailings ponds and landfills. Heavy metal measured values exceed the WHO limit quota. The characteristics of heavy metals and their negative impact on the environment and people's health have prompted a large number of investigations into this global problem. This paper provides an overview of the literature on the subject, with the goal of emphasizing the anthropogenic influence of heavy metal pollution as a critical issue, particularly in developing countries.