Impact of mining tailings seepage on agricultural soils: Comparative analysis of Cu and Pb in Quiruvilca, Perú

Abstract

Contamination of agricultural soils by heavy metals from mining activities represents a critical threat to sustainability and human health. The main objective of this research was to conduct a comparative analysis of agricultural soils affected by mine tailings seepage, with an emphasis on the identification of copper (Cu) and lead (Pb). The study adopted a quantitative approach and experimental design, using a total of six agricultural soil samples and six samples of mine tailings water taken from different points in the northern highlands of Peru, specifically in the Quiruvilca area. The samples were analyzed using titration and atomic adsorption techniques. The results showed high levels of contamination, with Cu concentrations (0.03%) exceeding the Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) at all sampling points, making Cu the most abundant contaminant. Furthermore, copper concentrations in the tailings water were significantly elevated to 72.25 ppm, exceeding the limits set by the National Water Authority (ANA). It is concluded that the seepage of mining tailings in the Quiruvilca area has caused a progressive chemical alteration of the agricultural soil, with a high concentration of Cu and Pb, which implies an environmental risk in agriculture.