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Heavy Metal Contamination and Human Health Implications in the Chan Thnal Reservoir, Cambodia

Author

Listed:
  • Lita Chheang

    (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok 10140, Thailand)

  • Nisakorn Thongkon

    (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok 10140, Thailand)

  • Tongchai Sriwiriyarat

    (Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Burapha University, Chonburi 20131, Thailand)

  • Sudtida Pliankarom Thanasupsin

    (Chemistry for Green Society and Healthy Living Research Unit, Faculty of Science, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok 10140, Thailand)

Abstract

Chan Thnal reservoir, built during the Pol Pot period, is the major water source for the people in Krang Chek commune, Kampong Speu Province, Cambodia. Metal pollution caused by agricultural activities, improper wastewater treatment, and municipal waste disposal poses serious environmental health problems. In this study, the concentrations of four potential toxic metals (i.e., Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn) from six locations across the reservoir were investigated both in the water and sediment. The results reflected progressive deterioration and indicated moderate to heavy pollution from the metals. The metal levels in the water were in the order of Zn > Cu > Pb > Cd. The statistical analysis revealed primary sources of heavy metals contamination in the water. Cd, Cu, Zn, and Pb in the water likely originate from anthropogenic activities including agricultural runoff (i.e., the use of fertilizers and pesticides) and urban runoff (i.e., improper wastewater discharge and waste disposal). Among the four metals, the Pb levels in the water significantly exceeded the guideline for drinking water in all locations. The health risk assessment revealed serious non-carcinogenic risks of Pb intake in the children at the age below 10 and infants. Appropriate control and protection strategies are urgently needed to cut off the main Pb exposure pathway in pregnant women, children, and infants.

Suggested Citation

  • Lita Chheang & Nisakorn Thongkon & Tongchai Sriwiriyarat & Sudtida Pliankarom Thanasupsin, 2021. "Heavy Metal Contamination and Human Health Implications in the Chan Thnal Reservoir, Cambodia," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(24), pages 1-20, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:24:p:13538-:d:696980
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Perera, L. R. & Bonn, M. & Naren, T. & Sopheak, C. & Tiang, S. & Channarith, U. & Soveng, N. & Sokin, L. & Serey, S. & Sophorn, E. & Sinak, K. & Innocencio, Arlene & Noble, Andrew & Shah, Tushaar, 2007. "Towards establishing a system of monitoring and evaluation for the Participatory Irrigation Management Program in Cambodia," IWMI Research Reports H040757, International Water Management Institute.
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