Why boron? Importance of boron for environment, human, plant and animal health

Boron, defined as oil of the future, is one of the most important underground wealth of Turkey. Boron is ranked first among mining products in Turkey, which owns 63% of the world boron reserves. Boron mineral can be used as raw material, but it is generally used after being converted into refined boron compounds. Boron pollution is an important problem for Turkey. Wastes from boron mines, boric acid plants are the main sources of pollution. Wastewater containing high boron content (1500 mg L⁻¹) is discharged into the reservoirs, there is a high level of boron pollution. According to the World Health Organization, the boron content of drinking water varies between 0.1-0.3 mg L⁻¹, the boron feeding as food should be at the level of 1.2 mg day⁻¹. The European Food Safety Authority states that drinking water contributes 0.2 to 0.6 mg day⁻¹ to the daily feeding. According to the Water Pollution Control Regulation (1988) that published by Ministry of the Environment in Turkey, boron limit for drinking water is 1 mg kg⁻¹. Although it is necessary for plants, the use of water with a boron content of more than 1 mg L⁻¹ can cause problems in plants and soil. Humans are exposed to food from their food, drinking water and some products they consume (cosmetics, detergents, soaps, etc.). The obligation for people to the pipe has not yet been shown, but it is suggested that it is beneficial. However, when it is present in high concentrations, all these organisms show a toxic effect. The use of water with a boron content of more than 1 mg L⁻¹ which is necessary for plants, can cause problems in plants and soil. People are exposed to food from their food, drinking water and some products they consume (cosmetics, detergents, soaps, etc.). In this review, the importance of boron for agriculture, environmental, animal and human health are examined.