Zenica Steelworks soil remains contaminated with heavy metals

Research conducted by Eco Forum Zenica and the Federal Agropedological Institute reveals that soil in settlements near the Zenica Steelworks remains contaminated with heavy metals, despite the cessation of integral production. While residents report significant improvements in air quality, the environmental impact on the land persists due to decades of industrial activity.

Studies conducted in the settlements of Tetovo, Gradište, and Pehare involved taking 11 samples from ten micro-locations. Results indicate that while there is a downward trend in pollution levels and changes in the structure of contaminants, concentrations of lead, cadmium, and zinc remain high. Furthermore, concentrations of chromium, nickel, and manganese are reported to be double the expected levels compared to 2010 data.

Two specific locations will undergo additional analysis due to high concentration levels. On a positive note, researchers observed instances of phytoremediation, where clover has assisted in reducing the concentration of harmful substances in the soil.