Integrated geochemical and mineralogical analysis of heavy metal pollution: A scalable model for global environmental challenges

Heavy metal pollution is a major challenge for the environment. It affects more than 30% of global freshwater systems and threatens biodiversity and human well-being. This study presents a comprehensive, interdisciplinary framework that integrates advanced geochemical and mineralogical methods to address this urgent problem and provide scalable solutions with global applicability.

Focusing on Aligudarz County in Iran's geologically active Zagros Mountains, 110 sediment samples were analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Results revealed the pivotal role of fine-grained silts and clays, particularly Illite and montmorillonite with high adsorption capacities, in heavy metal transport. Pollution indices, including the geo-accumulation index and the enrichment factor, indicate moderate to severe pollution by molybdenum, lead, cadmium and copper. Of particular concern are the traces of cadmium and lead, which pose an acute threat to ecosystems and human health and require immediate action.

This study presents a novel method for assessing heavy metal exposure by combining state-of-the-art analytical tools with robust statistical approaches. The results not only provide a basis for targeted mitigation strategies, but also serve as a model for shaping global environmental policy and improving international efforts to protect natural and human systems.