МакедонскиThe term heavy metal refers to the chemical element – metals that have a relatively high density and are toxic at low concentrations. In the group of heavy metals are mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), thallium (Tl), nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb).
Heavy metals mercury, cadmium, lead, chromium are hazardous to health or the environment, zinc and lead generate corrosion. Within the European Community eleven elements of highest concern are arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, mercury, manganese, nickel, lead, tin, and thallium.
Heavy metal pollution can arise from many sources. Major sources of cadmium (Cd) are coal, combustion gas, oil (small amounts), mining activities including smelting, phosphate fertilizers, sewage sludge, motor vehicles (tires and lubricants). Sources of lead (Pb) are coal, oil, mining activities including smelting, combustion gas, sewage sludge, pesticides, motor vehicles (gasoline). Sources of arsenic (As) are coal, oil, gas combustion, mining activities including smelting, combustion of fossil fuels, geothermal energy, phosphate fertilizers, pesticides. Sources of nickel (Ni) are coal, oil, gas combustion, mining activities including smelting, steel production, combustion of fossil fuels, oil refining, sewage sludge, motor vehicles (diesel).
In the period January – August 2006, by the MOEPP in the period January-August indicative measurements for heavy metals included low volume samplers were carried out. The Institute for public health examines cadmium, lead and zinc heavy metals. More detailed information on these pollutants can be found in Air quality assessment report.
