Heavy metals in soil: A growing food safety concern

Cadmium, arsenic and other toxic metals are turning up in farmland. Researchers used AI and numerous studies to uncover a pattern stretching across continents. What can be done?

Nature and EnvironmentGlobal issues

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Nature and EnvironmentGlobal issueshttps://p.dw.com/p/5Op36

New research has shown that up to 17% of the world’s cropland exceeds recommended limits for at least one toxic heavy metal — including substances like lead and arsenic. Thanks to AI analysis of existing data, the scientists identified a vast swathe of contaminated farmland stretching across parts of Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Heavy metals can enter crops through polluted soil and groundwater, potentially posing a risk to consumers and to global food security.
Researchers warn that extreme weather linked to climate changecould worsen the problem. While potential solutions exist, tackling contamination presents a huge challenge.

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