Trace element contaminants in agricultural soils: challenges and solutions

Publication date: 12-12-2025
Extent: 56 pages

Contributions by: Chandima Wekumbura, Kansas State University, USA; Chammi P. Attanayake, University of Illinois Urbana−Champaign/Kansas State University, USA; and Ganga M. Hettiarachchi, Kansas State University, USA

Chapter synopsis:

This chapter explores the challenges and solutions to trace element contaminants in agricultural soils. Trace elements are naturally occurring environmental components but human activities have significantly altered their distribution, leading to contamination across various environmental compartments. Contamination of agricultural soils with trace elements is a concern because they can persist in the soil and potentially be transferred to food crops and humans. While certain trace elements, like copper and zinc, are essential for the growth and development of plants and animals, others, like cadmium, lead and arsenic, don't have beneficial metabolic functions. Both types can be harmful to humans if exposure occurs at concentrations exceeding the maximum tolerable intake levels. Various remediation strategies can reduce their bioavailability in agricultural soils. Additionally, regulatory standards for trace element concentrations in soil or agricultural products could play a strong and indirect role in controlling their environmental impact.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2025.0151.02