Heavy Metal Pollution and Biosorption

Abstract

The escalation of environmental pollution by heavy metals has emerged as a global concern in recent years, posing a significant threat to public health. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the ongoing rise in anthropogenic activities, notably industrial processes and urbanization, which indiscriminately release pollutants into the environment without effective control and mitigation measures. Subsequently, these metals traverse the food chain, impacting animals and humans. Elevated levels of heavy metals can have deleterious effects on organisms and plants, disrupting the metabolic functions of vital organs and glands. Continuous assessment and monitoring of heavy metal levels in the environment are imperative due to the escalating anthropogenic activities. The primary objective of this chapter is to provide an illustrative discussion on important heavy metals, environmental pollution caused by heavy metals, encompassing air, soil, and water. Various toxic effects on human health have been considered, and corresponding remedies have been presented.