Arsenic in agricultural soils-water systems: transfer mechanisms, remediation options and recommendations for risk management
Résumé
Chronic exposure to arsenic (As) through food crops is a major health issue. Our AgriAs project [1] evaluated soil-water-crop transfer mechanisms and proposed remediation options. Two sites, one polluted by a former factory of WWI ammunition destruction (Verdun, France), and another contaminated by historical mining activities (Freiberg, Germany) were chosen for the elaboration and evaluation of methodologies [2]. These sites represent different agronomical conditions and the source and distribution of As contamination (hot spots versus large-scale). Spring barley was chosen to study the influence of fertilizers and As-adsorbent on As transfer from soil to plants or water. Bio-indicators including the Omega-3 Index ecotoxicological test and microbial parameters were implemented to monitor As-related processes [3]. Experiments highlighted the potential of a biologically synthesized adsorbent (sorpP) to decrease the mobility of As and the soil toxicity for plants. Effects of fertilizers on the biogeochemical behavior of As differed between soils and redox conditions. Concerning water treatments, reverse osmosis membrane systems, adsorption and coagulation–filtration processes were compared in terms of feasibility and sustainability. Research outcomes contributed to design the conceptual sketch of a health risk assessment model [4]. AgriAs project thus contributed to define recommendations including either the adaption of agricultural and soil management to prevent exposure or remediation measures tailored for different sites and land use.
Domaines
Biotechnologie
Origine : Fichiers produits par l'(les) auteur(s)