Arica soil study reveals persistent heavy metal contamination

A study by the University of Chile has detected elevated concentrations of toxic metals, including lead, arsenic, and zinc, in various urban sectors of Arica. The research, published in the journal CLEAN – Soil, Air, Water, indicates that the environmental footprint of the Polimetales crisis from over 30 years ago persists in the territory.

Researchers analyzed 17 urban points, identifying the highest concentrations at intersections such as Linderos with Azolas, Óscar Bonilla with Barros Arana, and Luis Beretta Porcel Avenue. The findings suggest that the arid soil of the region acts as a reservoir for these chemicals, which do not degrade easily due to low organic matter and minimal precipitation.

The contamination is linked to approximately 20,000 tons of mining waste from Sweden that were brought into Chile between 1984 and 1985 by the company Procesadora de Metales (Promel). Although the original waste was removed following a major health crisis in the 1990s, the study highlights the need for continued environmental and sanitary surveillance, particularly in residential areas and zones used by children.