HINABANGAN, Samar-- Abandoned mines in Barangay Bagacay showed
high traces of metal pollutants. This finding is based on
a study conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources Region 8 researchers Loida Z. Nasayao, Faustino
G. Villamayor, and Marcia Florenda G. Polo.
According to the researchers, the used mines retain traces
of heavy metals from ores which have been pulverized, heated,
or dissolved during industrial operation. The researchers
explained that these traces eventually penetrate the soil
and result in geochemical ‘neoanomalies’. These
contain up to 1,000 times the normal trace element, most often
toxic, and pollute the environment.
Metal concentrations in the soil at the study site were all
above the maximum permissible amount. The heavy metals, copper
(Cu), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb), were the pollutants found
in the soil of abandoned mines and all were measured at levels
above average, with the highest value at 6202.880 mg/kg copper.
The researchers said that copper enriched plant material can
be hazardous to animals; that cadmium is considered one of
the most dangerous environmental pollutants affecting primarily
the kidneys; and that lead is a major chemical pollutant of
the environment and highly toxic to man.
The researchers also reported that both the total nitrogen
(N) and exchangeable calcium (Ca) were very low to extremely
low. Similarly, exchangeable phosphorus (P) was low to very
low. On the other hand, exchangeable potassium (K) and magnesium
(Mg) were very high to extremely high, while iron (Fe), manganese
(Mn), and zinc (Zn) concentrations were higher than normal.
These values indicate the imbalance in the nutrient content
of the soil, the researchers added.
In a report submitted to PCARRD, the researchers recommended
revegetation of the areas and establishment of soil erosion
control structures to prevent pollution of rivers and adjacent
agricultural fields.
The researchers recommend the planting of fast-growing species,
such as acacia, agoho, bitaog, and even bamboo. These species
have a high litterfall turnover and fast decomposition and
drought rate. They are also acid and saline resistant. Endemic
fruit trees, such as duhat and camachile, could also be planted.
(Ma. Rowena M. Baltazar, S&T Media Service)
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