Metal Contents in Vegetables Originating from Coal Fired Thermal Power Plants Region
2024
Zarić, Nenad | Zarić, Milana
Coal-fired thermal power plants make an important contribution to the global energy supply, but pose a significant environmental and health risk due to pollutant emissions, including heavy metals. These pollutants can contaminate soil and water, leading to bioaccumulation of toxic elements in plants. In this study, the elemental composition of vegetables (carrots, peppers, potatoes and tomatoes) grown near the Kostolac A and B coal-fired power plants in Serbia is investigated. Samples were taken from four locations (Požarevac, Petka, Kostolac and Drmno), processed and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results showed that carrots had the highest accumulation of elements, including both essential nutrients and toxic heavy metals, although none of them exceeded the safety thresholds set by local, EU or FAO/WHO standards. The results underline the need for continuous monitoring of vegetable safety in the vicinity of coal-fired power plants to mitigate potential health risks. Further studies, including soil analysis, are recommended to identify the sources of these elements and to fully understand their impact on the environment.
Show more [+] Less [-]AGROVOC Keywords
Bibliographic information
Publisher University of Belgrade, Technical faculty in Bor (Serbia)
This bibliographic record has been provided by Matica Srpska Library