Impacts of Mining and Mineral Processing on the Environment and Human Health

Trace element pollution is a pressing issue in the field of environmental toxicology and public health, especially with the expansion of mining and mineral processing activities. The accelerated release of naturally occurring toxic elements through mining processes has led to their persistence in air, soil, and water, increasing bioaccumulation in living organisms. These pollutants raise significant concerns due to their persistence, ability to travel across environmental media, and cumulative impacts on ecosystem and human health. Recent studies underscore the complexity of trace element mobility and highlight their potential to disrupt ecological balances, impact microbial biodiversity, and endanger human populations, particularly in mining-impacted communities. Despite extensive research, unresolved debates persist regarding the mechanisms of trace element transformation and the extent of their chronic and acute effects on living organisms. There is also a growing awareness of the limitations of existing monitoring and remediation strategies, fueling the need for updated risk assessments and innovative mitigation approaches.This Research Topic aims to advance our understanding of how mining and mineral processing drive the distribution and bioaccumulation of trace elements, with a focus on the resultant health and ecological outcomes. Central objectives include evaluating the physiological, reproductive, and developmental health effects on humans, animals, and plants, as well as illuminating the intricate pathways and interactions of these elements across environmental compartments. By integrating multidisciplinary perspectives, the goal is to foster evidence-based strategies that can guide policymakers, industry leaders, and health professionals in minimizing harm and enhancing sustainable mining practices.The scope of this Research Topic is confined to the direct and indirect biological implications of trace element contamination derived from mining and mineral processing, emphasizing their movement between air, soil, and water and their ultimate impact on organism health. Studies that investigate these dynamics with an interdisciplinary approach are especially welcome. To gather further insights in this area, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- Bioaccumulation and biomagnification of trace elements in plants, animals, and humans- Toxicological impacts of trace elements on physiological, reproductive, and developmental health- Interactions between trace elements and biological systems across aquatic and terrestrial environments- Responses of microbial communities to contamination and their biogeochemical roles- Ecological consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem functioning- Exposure pathways and risk assessment for organisms in contaminated settings- Innovative strategies for protection, restoration, and remediation linked to trace element pollution.Authors are invited to submit original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and case studies. Interdisciplinary manuscripts and those addressing mitigation strategies are particularly encouraged, provided submissions comply with all journal guidelines and undergo rigorous peer review for scientific quality. Topic editors: Robert Šajn, Jasminka Alijagic, Momir Paunovic Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77368/impacts-of-mining-and-mineral-processing-on-the-environment-and-human-health