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Article

The Contribution of the Hulene-B Waste Dump (Maputo, Mozambique) to the Contamination of Rhizosphere Soils, Edible Plants, Stream Waters, and Groundwaters

by
Bernardino Bernardo
1,2,
Carla Candeias
1,* and
Fernando Rocha
1
1
GeoBioTec Research Centre, Department of Geosciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
2
Faculty of Earth Sciences and Environment, Pedagogical University of Maputo, Maputo 2482, Mozambique
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Environments 2023, 10(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10030045
Submission received: 19 January 2023 / Revised: 20 February 2023 / Accepted: 2 March 2023 / Published: 6 March 2023
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Impact Assessment II)
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Abstract

:
The contamination of ecosystems in areas around waste dumps is a major threat to the health of surrounding populations. The aim of this study is to understand the contribution of the Hulene-B waste dump (Maputo, Mozambique) to the contamination of edible plants, rhizosphere soils, stream waters, and groundwater, and to assess human health risk. Soil and plant samples were analyzed by XRD and XRF for mineralogical and chemical composition characterization, respectively. Mineral phases identified in rhizosphere soil samples were ranked, calcite (CaCO3) > quartz (SiO2) > phyllosilicates (micas and kaolinite) > anhydrite (CaSO4) > K feldspar (KAlSi3O8) > opal (SiO2·nH2O) > gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O), suggesting potential toxic elements low mobility. Soil environmental indices showed pollution by Pb > Cu > Zn > Zr. The chemical composition of edible plants revealed contamination by Ni, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ti, and Zr. Groundwaters and stream waters showed a potential health risk by Hg and, in one irrigation water sample, by Pb content. The health hazard index of rhizosphere soils was higher by ingestion, with children being the ones more exposed. Results suggested a combined health risk by exposure to edible plants, rhizosphere soils, stream waters, and groundwaters.

1. Introduction

Unplanned city development in developing countries together with demographic growth increases solid urban wastes production, often deposited in abandoned areas, compromising the environment and health of surrounding populations [1]. Groundwater is an important source of potable water, representing ~30% of the world’s resource for drinking and domestics purposes [2], and stream water is an important source for irrigation purposes [3]. Stream waters and groundwaters in areas surrounding waste dumps are vulnerable to contamination [4]. Waste dumps are a source of leachates, as a result of deposited solid waste decomposition, compromising surrounding waters and soils. Hussein et al. [5] reported Hg, Cd, Pb, Mg, As, Zn, and Cu groundwater enrichment in landfills in Malaysia, posing a risk to human health. Parvin et al. [6] suggested that Pb-contaminated water consumption can result in a range of hematological, neurological, renal, gene mutation, central nervous system, and reproductive impairment outcomes. Chronic exposure to water with high Zn content can induce stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, anemia, and damage to the pancreas [7]. Other health hazards reported in the surroundings of waste dumps were linked to contaminated agricultural products [8].
Romero et al. [9] showed that agricultural areas surrounding waste dumps were influenced by contaminants transported by the wind [10]. High concentrations of heavy metals in rhizosphere soils were identified as a potential health risk by inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact, with farmers being the ones more exposed [11]. Additionally, the contamination of rhizosphere soils, i.e., soil immediately surrounding the plant root, can be transported to edible plants, through transfer mechanisms of absorbed potentially toxic elements (PTEs) [12]. Sharma et al. [13] suggested that food crops from contaminated sites can represent a hazard at the trophic level in the food chain, with increased bioaccumulation of different elements. Contaminated plants can trigger several diseases in consumers, depending on PTEs content and their bioaccessibility [14]. Zhou et al. [15] suggested that pregnant women and children that consumed contaminated plants (e.g., Pb, Cd, Cu, Zn, and As) were at greater risk.
In Mozambique, among the causes of urban ecosystems contamination are waste dumps [16], with Maputo, the capital, having the largest areas of uncontrolled solid waste disposal [17]. The production of municipal solid waste increased rapidly, with a daily waste deposition in the Hulene-B dump of ~1000 t [18]. All types of domestic, urban, clinical/hospital, and industrial wastes are deposited without previous treatment or control [19]. Cendón et al. [20] and Nogueira et al. [21] reported that the Maputo aquifer system is vulnerable to contamination given the shallow groundwater depth. Bernardo et al. [22], reported a possible migration of leachates causing contamination of surrounding soils, stream waters, and groundwaters. Vicente et al. [23], and Bernardo et al. [24] suggested enrichment of soils and groundwater by Cr, Cu, Mn, Pb, Zn, and Zr in the vicinity of the Hulene-B dump. Studies on the contamination of edible plants, cultivated around dump studies, are scarce, although the practice of horticulture is common in local houses backyards. The aim of this study is to understand the contribution of the Hulene-B waste dump to the contamination of stream waters, groundwaters, edible plants, and rhizosphere soils and to assess risk to human health. Results can contribute to understand the contamination mechanisms of the ecosystem around the dump, which can help local governments to take adequate measures to mitigate the impacts of the Hulene-B dump. The present study uses recent methods and an integrated approach to the systemic study of environmental impact and health risk posed by waste dumps on the surrounding population.

2. Methods and Materials

2.1. Study Area

Hulene-B waste dump (Figure 1) is located in the northern area of Maputo (Mozambique) and occupies an area of ~17 hectares [18]. Around the dump are located Hulene-B and Laulane neighborhoods, with 48,717 and 27,061 inhabitants, respectively [25]. Matsinhe et al. [26], Sarmento [27], and Serra [18] reported that the dump receives all type of wastes produced in the city, e.g., industrial, domestic, commercial, and hospital, with an estimated ~1000 t/d being continuously compressed. The dump is located in an abandoned open-air quarry, and the first waste deposit dated from 1973 [28], having a waste height of ~6 to 15 m [29]. The dump is positioned on a dune slope with E–W orientation, with stream water and leachates migrating in the same direction, mostly during rainy season [17]. The dump’s W area was improved in 2018, after a large waste mass collapse that buried several houses and caused the death of 17 inhabitants [30]. The improvement works consisted on the removal of all houses near the dumpsite, creating an empty area. From 2020, this area began to be occupied by crop fields around the riparian area, which accumulates surface water, including dispersed leachates from the dumpsite and runoff water from Julius Nyerere Avenue (Figure 1). This wetland surrounding Hulene-B, is used for the practice of subsistence agriculture, predominantly cabbage, lettuce, sweet potato, and pumpkin [16].
Hulene-B hydrogeological system is part of the Tertiary to Quaternary aquifer system [20], with a substrate of clayey marl to grey clay layers [20,21]. In the western limit of Hulene-B dump, there is a semi-impermeable layer of clayey sands, fine-to-coarse sand, and sandstones, facilitating water circulation between these two sectors [21]. Well water levels, in the surroundings of the waste dump, varies between 1.5 and 9.3 m in deep [20]. Until 1990s, population use of groundwater was common in the surrounding of the dump; however, many wells were decommissioned in recent years due to high levels of groundwater contamination [31]. Soils on the western border of the dump are mostly composed of materials from upper Pleistocene Malhazine Formation (QMa) and upper Pleistocene to lower Pleistocene Red Point Formation (TPv) [32]. The Malhazine Formation, on the western border, consists of coarse-to-fine, poorly consolidated sands with whitish to reddish colors, fixed by vegetation and consolidation processes. The predominant climate is subtropical, with two seasons: (a) hot and rainy period from December to March, with >60% of annual precipitation, with intense precipitation in January (average 125 mm); (b) dry and cold season from April to September, with lower temperatures in June and July, and weak and irregular precipitation with minimum intensity in August (~12 mm). The average annual precipitation is ~789 mm, and prevailing SE winds [33].

2.2. Rhizosphere Sampling and Analysis

Four rhizosphere composite soils samples (R1 to R4; ~1.5 kg each) were collected on agricultural areas on the W of the dump (Figure 1). Samples were georeferenced and preserved in clean plastic bags until laboratory treatment. In the laboratory, samples were dried in an oven ≤40 °C, homogenized, and sieved (<2 mm), at Pedagogical University of Maputo, Mozambique. Afterwards, samples were transported to GeoBioTec research center laboratories (University of Aveiro, Portugal, UAVR), for physical, chemical, and mineralogical analyses. Electrical conductivity (EC) and pH were determined in a 1:2.5 soil/water solution using a high-resolution pH meter and condutivimeter. Organic matter (OM) content was determined by the method described by USDA [34]. Color was determined according to [35]. Soil pH was classified according to USDA [36] as extremely acidic 3.5–4.4, very strongly acidic 4.5–5.0, strongly acidic 5.1–5.5, moderately acidic 5.6–6.0, slightly acidic 6.1–6.5, neutral 6.6–7.3, slightly alkaline 7.4–7.8, moderately alkaline 7.9–8.4, and strongly alkaline 8.5–9.0. Soil organic matter was classified as: high content > 4%, medium content 2–4%, and low content < 2% [34]. Electrical conductivity was classified taking in consideration reference values for soil salinity for horticultural crops (≤1100 μS/cm) and for sandy soils EC (<100 μS/cm) [37]. Chemical composition was accessed by X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), using a PANalytical PW 4400/40 45 Axios (Malvern Panalytical, Almelo, The Netherlands) with Cr Kα radiation. Mineralogy was determined by powder X-ray Diffraction (XRD), using a Phillips/Panalytical powder diffractometer (Malvern Panalytical, Almelo, The Netherlands), model X’Pert-Pro MPD, equipped with an automatic slit. A Cu-X-ray tube was operated at 50 Kv and 30 mA. Data were collected from 2 to 70° 2θ with a step size of 1° and a counting interval of 0.02 s. Results were within the 95% confidence limit, with precision and accuracy of analyses and digestion procedures monitored by internal standards, certified reference material, and quality control blanks. Relative Standard Deviation was between 5% and 10%.

2.3. Edible Plants Sampling and Analysis

Four cultivated edible plants (Figure 2a–c) were collected at the same rhizosphere soil locations (Figure 1). The species collected were sample RP1: Amaranthus leaves (Amaranthus spinosus), at the western end of the riparian zone; sample RP2: sweet potato leaves (Ipomoea batatas), at the eastern end of the riparian zone; sample RP3: cabbage leaves (Brassica oleracea L), at south-western end of the dump; and sample RP4: pumpkin leaves (Cucurbita pepo), at the south-eastern end. Plant leaves are consumed by the inhabitants, having been planted near the riparian zone due to soil humidity and proximity of stream water used for irrigation. After plants collection (~400 g of fresh leaves), samples were transported to the laboratory and dried in an oven at ~40 °C. Chemical analyses of the plants were performed by XRF, at GeoBioTec (UAVR) laboratories.

2.4. Water Sampling and Analysis

Four representative water samples were collected (Figure 1): 2 stream water samples used for irrigation, in north-western (IWN) and south (IWS) areas; and 2 groundwater samples from wells used for human consumption, located south-west (WS) and north-west (WN) of the dump. Sample WS was collected at 5 m depth, on an uncovered well, and sample WN, was collected at 8 m depth on a covered well. Each sample was collected and preserved (4 °C) in clean 1 L polyethylene bottles and transported to the laboratory for analysis. Waters pH was measured in situ, being classified as acidic < 7, neutral = 7, or basic > 7 [38]. Water samples chemical analysis was performed using a Metalyser H1000 (Trace2o, Berkshire, United Kingdom) Trace-2 to analyze Pb, Hg, Zn concentrations. This equipment is recommended in the analysis of heavy metals given its robustness, accuracy and a 97% correlation with Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GF-AAS) analysis [39].

2.5. Soil Indexes and Health Risk Assessment (SHRA)

Soil pollution index (PI) was calculated for PTEs Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Ti, Zn, and Zr, by dividing the individual mean concentration (Ci) by their corresponding reference values for rhizosphere soils (Cd) − PI = Ci/Cd. Pollution index classifies soils as slightly polluted (0 ≤ PI < 1), moderately polluted (1 ≤ PI < 3), highly polluted (3 ≤ PI < 6), and very highly polluted (PI ≥ 6) [40].
Pollution Load index (PLI) provides a simple comparative mean to assess soils level of PTEs contamination, by the same PTEs, as the nth root of the product of the nPI, with n being the number of variables (PTEs) considered: PLI = (PI1 × PI2 × PI3 ×⋯× PIn)1/n. When PLI > 1, environmental deterioration must be considered [41].
Soil health risk assessment (SHRA) was calculated taking in consideration inhabitants’ exposure, for both children and adults, through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact [42]. Parameters considered were: ingestion rate of 200 and 100 mg/d for children and adults, respectively; inhalation rate of 7.6 and 20 m3/d for children and adults, respectively; exposure frequency of 180 d/year; exposure period (EP) of 15 years for non-carcinogenic effects in children and adults, respectively; 60 years as a lifetime (LT) for carcinogenic effects; mean body weight of 15 and 60 kg for children and adults, respectively; mean time to non-carcinogenic effects = EP × 365 days; exposed skin area of 2800 and 5700 cm2 for children and adults, respectively, and skin adhesion factor of 0.2 and 0.07 mg/cm2 for children and adults, respectively; dermal absorption factor of 0.001 for selected PTE (Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Ti, Zn, and Zr), and age-adjusted dermal soil contact factor of 362 mg·yr/kg·d; mean time to carcinogenic effects = LT × 365 days; and exposure time of 8 h/d [43]. Carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic side effects for each element were computed individually, considering reference toxicity levels for each variable, as extensively described [42,44]. For each selected PTE and pathway, non-cancer toxic hazard was estimated by computing the Hazard Quotient (HQ) for systemic toxicity (i.e., non-carcinogenic risk). If HQ > 1, non-carcinogenic effects might occur as the exposure concentration exceeds the reference dose (RfD). The cumulative non-carcinogenic hazard index (HI) corresponded to the sum of HQ for each pathway and/or variable. Similarly, HI > 1 indicates that non-carcinogenic effects might occur. Carcinogenic risk, or the probability of an individual to develop any type of cancer over a lifetime because of exposure to a potential carcinogen, was estimated by the sum of total cancer risk for the three exposure routes. A risk > 1.00 × 10−6 is the carcinogenic target, while values > 1.00 × 10−4 are considered unacceptable [43].

2.6. Soil/Plant Transfer Factor (TF)

Transfer factor allowed us to assess transfer of elements from soils to edible plants and was calculated as follows: TF = Cplant/Csoil, where Cplant and Csoil are the individual element concentration (mg/kg) in edible plants and soils samples, respectively. TF > 1 indicates an accumulation of elements [44].

2.7. Plant Health Risk Assessment (PHRA)

Plant health risk assessment (PHRA) is used to evaluate human health risk associated with the consumption of contaminated plants [45]. Was estimated through the daily elemental intake (DIM), the hazard risk index (HRI), the targeted hazard quotient (THQ), and the hazard index (HIplant). Plants DIM by adults does not consider body’s metabolic response to PTEs; however, it may indicate a possible rate of intake of a selected PTE, with DIM = Celement × Dintake/Bweight, where DIM is the daily adult elemental ingestion (kg/day), Celement is the plant dry weight elemental concentration (mg/kg), Dintake is the daily consumption of edible plants (Amaranthus leaves = sweet potato leaves = pumpkin leaves = cabbage = 0.025 kg/day), and Bweight is the average body weight (60 kg/adult) [45]. HRI by ingestion of edible plants for each element was calculated by HRI = DIM/RfD, where RfD is the reference oral dose (Cr = 0.003; Cu = 0.037; Fe = 18; Mn = 0.14; Ni = 0.2; Pb = 0.014; Ti = 0.7; Zn = 0.3; and Zr = 4.2 kg/day) [46]. Targeted hazard quotient was the ratio between PTEs dose and a reference dose (dimensionless) indicating the non-carcinogenic hazard through edible plants ingestion. It was calculated by THQ = (EF × ED × Dintake × Celement)/(RfD × Bweight × AT), where EF is the exposure frequency (300 days/year), ED is the exposure duration (40 years), and AT is the average exposure time (ED × 365 days/year). Hazard index (HIplant) is the summation of all PTEs considered and given by HI = ∑ n = 1 i THQ n ,   i = n ,   … n [47]. HRI, THQ, and HI values <1.0 indicate no risk by plant consumption, and if ≥1.0 adverse health effects should be considered [45].

2.8. Water Pollution Index (WPI)

The water pollution index was determined based on the measured concentrations of Hg, Pb, and Zn. Single factor pollution index was calculated as: Pi = Ci/Si [48], where Pi is the pollution index of pollution indicator i, Ci is the concentration of pollution indicator in water (mg/L), and Si is the permissible limit for the pollution indicator in water, with Pi classified as: <0.4, non-pollution; 0.4–1.0, slightly polluted; 1.0–2.0, moderately polluted; 2.0–5.0, heavily polluted; and >5.0, seriously polluted [49].

2.9. Water Health Risk Assessment (WHRA)

Water health risk assessment was determined for Zn, Hg and Pb content [50,51]. Exposure was determined with reference values established by WHO [38,52], of Hg 2, Zn 3.000, and Pb 1 µg/L. Adjustable parameters used were daily water consumption of 1.5 and 2 L/day for children and adults, respectively; exposure frequency number of days exposed in a year of 365; total years of exposure of 15 and 60 for children and adults, respectively; average exposure time 5475 and 21,900 for children and adults, respectively; dermal permeability coefficient of 0.001 for all PTEs; surface area exposed of 852.5 and 1610 cm2 for children and adults, respectively; skin adherence factor of 0.2 and 0.07 for children and adults, respectively. Carcinogenic risk and non-carcinogenic hazard were determined using similar methods used for SHRA [53].

3. Results and Discussion

3.1. Soil Analysis

Rhizosphere soils pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter (OM), and color are presented in Table 1. Soil pH is an important property which controls chemical reactions of metals [47]. Rhizosphere soils revealed a moderately alkaline pH (8.1–8.4), confirming the findings of Naveen et al. [54] that, in general, areas impacted by heavy metals from dumps tend to have higher pH. Gajaje et al. [55], in their study on soils around Morupule dumpsite (Botswana), found an average pH of 8.3 in rhizosphere soils and associated it with heavy metal contamination (Cu, Cr, Mn, and Pb). Skrbic et al. [56], suggested that the PTEs highest retention in rhizosphere soils occurred with high pH, due to lower metals solubility in this pH range. Alkaline pH might affect plant growth because of the difficulty in absorbing essential plant nutrients, as well as PTEs, e.g., Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn [36].
EC showed high values, when compared to sandy soils guidelines (≤100 μS/cm; Lund, 2008), being ranked R4 >> R2 > R1 > R3. Bhardwaj et al. [39] suggested that rhizosphere soils in areas near waste dumps, usually exhibit higher EC values, being associated with contamination by metal ion enriched leachates [5], and deposition of contaminated ashes resulting from waste incineration [57]. Bernardo et al. [24], reported high EC values and high Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Zr concentrations in the Hulene-B dump surrounding soils, associating it with leachates. Another factor that may be associated with high EC is the presence of shallow water [58]. In sandy soils, the presence of water during rainfall episodes and periodic enrichment by surface leachates promote EC [37]. Studies related EC to crop yields and found that high EC values can reduce yields [59]. However, for horticultural crops, EC (salinity) results were considered within the recommended limit (<1000 μS/cm) [60].
Soil OM content was ranked R1 > R4 > R2 > R3, coherent with other studies, with generally low OM [61]. Some studies have shown that in contaminated areas, high OM content in rhizosphere can lead to the uptake of heavy metals, which bind easily to OM [34] and consequently decrease their toxicity levels from the rhizosphere to crops [62]. Rhizosphere soils color was classified as very dark in all samples, with sample R1 the darkest, associated with its OM content, which can be incorporated in interstitial spaces of sandy soils [63]. Bernardo et al. [64] linked the Hulene-B surrounding soils color variation to leachates circulating freely on the soil surface and waste incineration ashes, which can be associated with rhizosphere soils PTEs contamination [65], which can be transferred to edible plants [66].
Mineral phases are identified on the studied rhizosphere soils, where quartz (SiO2), calcite (CaCO3), phyllosilicates (micas and kaolinite), anhydrite (CaSO4), K feldspar (KAlSi3O8), opal (SiO2·nH2O), and gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) can be found (Figure 3), thus suggesting differentiated processes between intra-dune and other soils around the Hulene-B dump. Quartz content (18.1 to 40.5%) was similar to intra-dune deposits [32], which also revealed high calcite content. Samples R2 and R4 showed a higher calcite content, possibly due to the influence of soils remobilization in depth during the construction of the leachate transport channels.
Phyllosilicates content (3.0 to 28.8%) may be linked to the predominant aeolian and superficial deposition processes of the intra-dune area. Previous studies suggested that phyllosilicates content present a higher PTEs adsorption capacity, e.g., [67]. Quartz, under conditions of exceptional morphology fracture, can adsorb PTEs, such as Pb, Cu, and Cr [68]. Calcite has been reported to have the ability to immobilize heavy metals such as Pb, Fe, and Cd in contaminated soils near areas such as dumpsites [69].
Soils PTEs (Table 2) revealed significant differences (one sample t-test; p < 0.05) between samples Cr, Fe, Mn, Ti, and Zr content. The cluster analysis formed two major groups, one with sample R1 and another with samples R2 and R4, revealing an association to mean background values, and these three variables were grouped with sample R3. Sample R1 presented higher PTEs concentrations than other samples. The results suggested an external Cu, Ni, Pb, Ti, Zn, and Zr contamination contribution, especially in sample R1. This sample was collected on northwest section of the dump, relatively distant, suggesting contamination by transported waste incineration ash, with this location being in the direction of displacement and deposition of windborne suspended materials.
The rhizosphere soil pollution index (PI) of sample R1 revealed low pollution considering Cr, moderate pollution by Zr, Fe, and Ti, and high to very high pollution by Cu, Pb, Zn, and Ni (Table 3). Sample R2 Cu, Pb, and Zn content contributed to a very high PI; Ni, Ti, and Zr contributed to a moderate PI; and Ti contributed to a high PI. Similar results were found for samples R3 and R4. The higher contributions of Cu, Pb, Zn and Ni PI values in sample R1 may be associated with location, i.e., near the waste incineration and Julius Nyerere Avenue on the W, with sources of ash and contaminated dust. High concentrations of Cu, Pb, Zn, and Ni were reported in road dust samples next to the Hulene-B dump, being associated with waste incineration, intense traffic, and pavement degradation [70]. Samples R2 and R4 showed higher Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, Ti, and Zr content, possibly linked to the superficial circulation of leachates, which occurs cyclically. Bernardo et al. [70] reported high EC values and associated a possible contamination by leachate flows. Sample R3 presented a high PI with respect Cu, associated with surface water enriched by leachates circulation.
Pollution load index (PLI) was ranked Cu >> Pb >> Zn > Zr > Ni > Ti > Fe > Mn > Cr, suggesting environmental deterioration in the surrounding area of the dumpsite. Sample R1 was the one that contributed most PTEs and had a high rate of contamination. Sample R1 was collected in the NW border of the dump, strongly influenced by waste incineration, with ashes regularly transported and deposited in this location. On the dump surroundings, the incineration of urban wastes, such as electronics, hospital waste, tires, and lamps, has been pointed out as a source of Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn [57]. Sample R4 was the one that most contributed to this index, with high Cu and Pb content, and it was collected at the SW border of the dump, where surface dispersion of leachate predominates. Leachates have been identified as a source of PTEs in the surroundings of dumps [71] and are associated with higher OM content, which may influence the fixation of contaminants [72]. Sample R2, located north of the dump and close to the dump, with its relatively low contribution, may be associated with possible leaching of contaminants in this strip. However, the high pollution index by Cu, Pb, and Zn may be associated with the circulation of leachates that cyclically affect this area. However, sample R3 showed a low contribution, which may be related to its relatively distant location from the Hulene-B dump. High contributions of Cu may be associated with new deposits in the southwest, where open-air burning and ash deposition are recorded in the surrounding soils.
Rhizosphere soils hazard quotient (HQ) by ingestion and dermal contact for children was considered, due to higher risk by playing on the ground and hand-to-mouth behaviors in young age (Figure 4). All PTEs presented HQ > 1 by ingestion, except for Zr, with Mn being the element posing a higher hazard followed by Cu, Ti, and Zn. Dermal contact HQ was >1, except by Pb in samples R1 and R3, and Zr in all samples, with Ni and Mn being the PTEs posing a higher hazard. Prolonged exposure to Mn can induce pneumonia, hallucinations, pulmonary embolism, and bronchitis [71], while Ni poisoning affects lung function, breathing difficulties, coughing, skin or eye irritation, and chronic exposure to Cu can induce anemia and central nervous system and cardiovascular system disorders [73].

3.2. Water Analysis

Water pH was higher in stream waters, being higher than reference values (Table 4). Water sample WS presented a pH slightly below recommended for consumption [38]. pH is recognized to influence Hg, Pb, and Zn bioavailability and toxicity in drinking water [74]. Yesil et al. [75] reported higher bioavailability and toxicity of Hg and Pb in slightly acidic-to-neutral waters, such as sample WS, suggesting a greater health risk. Irrigation water IWN presented a higher Pb concentration than the reference value [52], which may be associated with ash deposition, as Pb contamination is caused by burning waste such as electronic equipment, batteries, paint cans, varnishes, and organic solvents, which is common [24]. In addition, free leachate circulation, which regularly reaches this area, is reported as a Pb dispersion source, in environments around waste dumps [6]. IWS showed high Hg content, which may also be associated with waste incineration [76].
The water pollution index revealed severe Hg Pi in the two water samples collected from wells (Table 5), while Pb Pi showed a slight pollution in sample WS and heavy Pi in IWN. Zinc Pi was classified as medium polluted in both wells and slightly polluted in IWS, taking in consideration Zn toxicity despite its higher concentration when compared to Pb and Hg content. Mercury can incorporate into groundwaters and surface waters through leachates produced at waste dumps by anaerobic decomposition of wastes or by particulate material resulting from the burning of contaminated wastes [76]. The practice of waste burning at the Hulene-B dump may be influencing the dispersion of ash enriched by heavy metals that were successively deposited in the vicinity of the waste dump and contributed to the contamination of groundwaters and stream waters. Lead enrichment in areas surrounding landfills has been associated with the deposition and burning of electronic equipment and rechargeable batteries wastes [78]. In the surroundings of the Hulene-B dumpsite, other potential Pb sources may be linked to, e.g., traffic-related materials (Julius Nyerere Avenue) and an international airport (Figure 1). Zinc enrichment has been associated with batteries, alloys, paint cans, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and electrical and electronic equipment waste, which is continuously deposited and burnt in the Hulene-B dump [79].

3.3. Edible Plants

The potentially toxic elements concentration in edible plants (Table 6) was higher than the daily reference dose (RfD) guidelines, suggesting a contribution from the Hulene-B dump. Studies suggested that waste dumps can be sources of PTEs on adjacent crops [80], with contamination also being associated with the transfer factor (TF) of contaminants from soil to plant [81]. Another mechanism of edible plants contamination in the vicinity of landfills is waste incineration ash deposition [82]. The consumption of these crops may represent a potential health risk [41]. The mean PTEs concentration of the edible plant samples was ranked RP1 > RP3 > RP2 > RP4. Sample RP1 (Amaranthus spinosus) was collected in the NW region of the dump, an area influenced by waste incineration ash deposition. However, Zr was not detected in edible leaves, despite its high concentrations in rhizosphere soils, suggesting a low TF under alkaline pH conditions [75]. Sample RP3 (Brassica oleracea L), collected relatively distant from the dump, showed high PTEs levels, despite rhizosphere soil contamination being relatively low, possibly associated with other contamination mechanisms such as cyclic, open-air incineration of waste occurring in a new area which may be a source of contaminated ash that accumulates on crop leaves. Sample RP2 (Ipomoea batatas) was collected relatively close to the dump, with PTEs content on rhizosphere soil being higher than the background mean, and plant edible leaves revealing a PTEs concentration above reference values. Yan et al. [12] suggested that Ipomoea batatas in contaminated soils presented higher capacity to absorb heavy metals such as Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn. Sample RP4 (Cucurbita pepo) was collected at the S boundary of the landfill, and correspondent rhizosphere soil presenting higher PTEs concentration than local background. Plant edible leaves showed a higher content than RfD.

3.4. Data Integration

The transfer factor (TF) from soil to plants is an important factor for consumption toxicity, with soil pH and OM being relevant in this process. Studied samples TF was >1 (Figure 5), except for Pb in R4P and Zr in R1P. High TF values suggested a higher capacity of the plants to absorb contaminants [80,85]. Transfer factor was ranked RP3 > RP4 > RP2 > RP1, with sample RP3 presenting higher TF for all PTEs, with Pb being the most representative element. Lead can be absorbed from plants leaves by ash or road dust deposition, with this plant being collected in a SE wind direction over the Hulene-B landfill. Wang et al. [4] suggested that plant leaves grown in the surrounding of dumps are constantly being enriched by PTEs from ashes resulting from waste incineration. Sample RP4 Zn and Mn TF showed higher percentage rates.
Daily elemental intake (DIM) and hazard risk index (HRI) are presented in Table 7. Sample R1P (Amaranthus spinosus) DIM was ranked Fe >> Zn > Ti, with other PTEs being negligible. The HRI was high for all elements, except for Ni and Zr, being ranked Cr > Cu > Pb > Zn > Mn > Ti > Fe. Sample RP2 (Ipomoea batatas) DIM was >1 in Fe, Zr and Ti, while HRI > 1 was ranked Cu > Cr > Mn > Pb. Sample RP3 (Cucurbita pepo) DIM > 1 was ranked Fe > Cr > Ti, and HRI was ranked Cr > Cu > Pb > Ti > Mn > Ni > Zn. Sample RP4 (Brassica oleracea L) DIM > 1 was ranked Fe > Zn > Ti, while HRI was ranked Cr > Cu > Pb > Zn > Mn > Ti > Fe. The consumption of plants contaminated by PTEs can induce various diseases and even cancer [86]. Chromium toxicity in humans has been linked to damaged blood cells, livers, nervous systems, and kidneys [73]. Chronic Cu consumption may result in gastrointestinal irritation, diarrhea, and liver failure [87], while Fe toxicity can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and damage to the intestine and other organs [88], and Mn is linked to memory problems, hallucinations, and Parkinson’s disease [89]. Nickel chronic ingestion has been associated with gastrointestinal and neurological effects including lung cancer. Ingestion of Pb can disturb almost all organs and the nervous system, in addition to causing kidney damage, brain damage, miscarriage, and death [89], and Ti can cause damage to DNA, brain [90], as well as liver and kidneys, and it can cause cancer [91], while excessive and prolonged Zn intake can lead to anemia and affect the immune system [73,90]. Zirconium, which is classified as having low toxicity [91], despite the presence and retention in relatively high amounts in biological systems, has not yet been associated with any specific metabolic function [92].
Targeted hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HIplant) are presented in Figure 6, with THQ being ranked Cr > Cu > Pb > Zn > Mn > Ni > Fe > Zr. The contribution of sample RP1 (Amaranthus spinosus) to induce adverse health effects in children and adults was ranked Cr > Cu > Pb> Zn > Mn > Ti > Fe, with nickel <1 and not posing potential risk for adverse health effects. Sample RP2 (Ipomoea batatas) Fe, Ni, and Zr content do not pose a potential health risk, with the main contributions being posed by Cu > Cr > Zn > Ti > Mn > Pb. Sample RP3 (Brassica oleracea L) the main contributors to potential health outcomes were ranked Cr > Cu > Pb > Ti > Mn > Ni > Zn, with Fe and Zr content representing <1. Meanwhile, sample RP4 (Cucurbita pepo) PTEs were ranked Cr > Cu > Zn > Mn > Ti > Ni, with Fe and Zr < 1. In all samples, the highest THQ risk index was posed to children. Similar findings were reported as a result of their lower body mass, suggesting a higher likelihood of developing cancer throughout life [41].
HIplant was similar to THQ, being >1 in all samples and higher for children (Figure 7), being ranked RP3 (6.41 × 102 to 4.27 × 102) > RP4 (3.68 × 102 to 2.45 × 102) > RP1 (3.59 × 102 to 2.39 × 102) > RP2 (3.36 × 102–2.24 × 102). Long-term consumption of the studied plants may induce cancer (e.g., kidney, bladder, and respiratory tract), nervous system disorders, memory problems, hallucinations, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. In children, this has also been associated with cognitive development problems and aggressive behavior [93,94].
Well water samples systemic toxicity (non-carcinogenic hazard) presented values above 1.00 × 100 (Figure 8). The results are linked to Hg concentration, with Pb and Zn being considerably negligible. Mercury is a toxic element, being ranked the third most toxic among all PTEs [7]. It was estimated that chronic Hg consumption of about 0.00023 mg/L per day can induce adverse renal, neurological, and respiratory effects [95,96], and it can irreversibly damage kidneys, liver, and central nervous system [97]. Well waters do not present a carcinogenic risk for humans by direct consumption, with Pb showing the highest values of 1.09 × 10−7 and 6.55 × 10−7 for WN and WS, respectively, both being below the threshold of 1.00 × 10−6. The implication of lead on human health depends on intensity, duration, and level of exposure, which can result in a range of toxic effects such as hematological, neurological, psychological, renal, and genetic mutation and reproduction are examples of the cumulative effect on the body [98]. As expected, in well waters, children had a higher health risk than adults, due to their lower body mass [41]. Lead toxicity in children can induce neurological complications, including difficulties in learning, concentration, and aggressive behavior [89]. Water ingestion is considered one of the main forms of Pb poisoning in children, accounting for about 7% [99].

4. Conclusions

Rhizosphere soils showed variable organic matter (OM) concentration, with moderately alkaline pH. The identified mineral phases predominance was: calcite > quartz > phyllosilicates (micas and kaolinite) > anhydrite > K feldspar > opal > gypsum, suggesting a higher ability for fixing PTEs and thus ideal conditions for adsorption and absorption of PTE in soils. The soil pollution load index (PLI) was ranked Cu >> Pb >> Zn >> Zr > Ni > Ti > Fe > Mn > Cr. Edible plants showed PTES concentration above reference dose, suggesting contamination by rhizosphere soil transfer factor and by contaminated ash deposition. Hazard index was >1 for all selected elements in all plants, except for Ni (sample RP1), Ni and Zr (sample RP2), Fe and Zr (sample R3), and Fe (sample R4), which suggests possible adverse health events. Target hazard quotient was >1 for all elements and only Zr was less than 1 in all plants. In all samples, the index was >1, and children were the ones with higher risk. Groundwater and stream waters showed a high pollution index (Pi) for Hg and Zn, with groundwater (drinking water) classified as acidic to slightly alkaline. Stream water (irrigation) was moderately alkaline, suggesting variable toxicity given PTEs concentrations above RfD.
The results suggested the need to control pollution mechanisms around the Hulene-B dump, such as leachate circulation and waste incineration ash control, the main PTEs enrichment sources of edible plants, rhizosphere soils, groundwater, and surface water. There is a need to reduce the use of well water due to high concentrations of potentially toxic elements. Farming should be relocated to other cropping areas, as part of the contamination occurs through soil transfer to plants. There is a need to protect crops from ash deposition to reduce toxicity. Future studies are needed to evaluate the levels of contamination of the waste incineration ash, and to evaluate PTEs bioaccessibility in both soil, plants, and waters.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, C.C. and F.R.; formal analysis, B.B.; funding acquisition, F.R.; investigation, B.B., C.C. and F.R.; methodology, B.B., C.C. and F.R.; resources, F.R.; supervision, C.C. and F.R.; validation, C.C.; writing—original draft, B.B.; writing—review and editing, C.C. and F.R. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

The authors are grateful to FCT for the financial support to Research Unit GeoBioTec (UIDB/04035/2020). The first author acknowledges grants from the Portuguese Institute Camões and FNI (Investigation National Fund—Mozambique).

Institutional Review Board Statement

This research study does not involve animals.

Informed Consent Statement

This research study does not involve humans. This research study does not involve individual person’s data in any form.

Data Availability Statement

Data used are available on the manuscript.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no known competing financial interest or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.

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Environments 10 00045 g001 550
Figure 1. Sampling locations, and surrounding environment, with numerous dwellings surrounding Hulene-B waste dump (center), airport (NW), and Julius Nyerere Avenue (E).
Figure 1. Sampling locations, and surrounding environment, with numerous dwellings surrounding Hulene-B waste dump (center), airport (NW), and Julius Nyerere Avenue (E).
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Figure 2. Edible plants cultivation near Hulene-B waste dump.
Figure 2. Edible plants cultivation near Hulene-B waste dump.
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Figure 3. Mineral phases identified on rhizosphere soils (relative quantification, in %).
Figure 3. Mineral phases identified on rhizosphere soils (relative quantification, in %).
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Figure 4. Rhizosphere soil hazard quotient (HQ) by ingestion and dermal contact for children (relative quantification, in %).
Figure 4. Rhizosphere soil hazard quotient (HQ) by ingestion and dermal contact for children (relative quantification, in %).
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Figure 5. Transfer factor (TF) from soil to plants (relative quantification, in %).
Figure 5. Transfer factor (TF) from soil to plants (relative quantification, in %).
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Figure 6. Targeted hazard quotient (THQ) in edible plants (relative quantification, in %).
Figure 6. Targeted hazard quotient (THQ) in edible plants (relative quantification, in %).
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Figure 7. Hazard index in edible plants.
Figure 7. Hazard index in edible plants.
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Figure 8. Systemic toxicity of well water samples.
Figure 8. Systemic toxicity of well water samples.
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Table
Table 1. Rhizosphere soils pH, electrical conductivity (EC; in μS/cm), organic matter (OM; in %), and color.
Table 1. Rhizosphere soils pH, electrical conductivity (EC; in μS/cm), organic matter (OM; in %), and color.
IDpHECOMColor
R18.15103.6blackish
R28.45711.7greyish
R38.23100.98greyish
R48.48102.3greyish
Table
Table 2. Rhizosphere soil samples and potentially toxic elements content of background soils (Bkg) (in mg/kg).
Table 2. Rhizosphere soil samples and potentially toxic elements content of background soils (Bkg) (in mg/kg).
VarR1R2R3R4Bkg *
Cr18.513.06.88.933.5
Cu18488243519.2
Fe15,9665954319554806801
Mn15312093113140
Ni14.64.22.64.93.9
Pb15639.09.71567.8
Ti27822116177517031754
Zn35.738.73.79.83.0
Zr289207170148123
* Bernardo et al. [70]
Table
Table 3. Pollution index and pollution load index of the studied rhizosphere soil samples.
Table 3. Pollution index and pollution load index of the studied rhizosphere soil samples.
VarPIPLI
R1R2R3R4
Cr0.60.40.00.30.0
Cu 20.09.62.638.24748
Fe 2.40.90.50.80.2
Mn1.10.90.70.80.1
Ni3.71.10.71.30.8
Pb20.05.01.220.0618
Ti1.61.21.01.00.5
Zn11.97.20.43.326.4
Zr2.41.71.41.21.6
Table
Table 4. Water samples’ pH, Pb, Hg, and Zn concentrations and reference values (in µg/L).
Table 4. Water samples’ pH, Pb, Hg, and Zn concentrations and reference values (in µg/L).
VarSamplesGuidelines
WSWNIWNIWSDrinking WaterStream WaterReference
pH6.18.49.110.36.5−8.505.5–7.5WHO [53]
Pb6nd79nd1020WHO [53]
Hg3676nd2565WHO [53]
Zn6313793≤5.000WHO [53];
CCME [77]
nd—not detected.
Table
Table 5. Pollution index (Pi) of groundwater and surface water.
Table 5. Pollution index (Pi) of groundwater and surface water.
IDPbHgZn
WS0.66.02.1
WN-12.74.3
IWS4.0-1.8
IWN-5.00.6
Table
Table 6. Edible plants PTEs (in mg/kg).
Table 6. Edible plants PTEs (in mg/kg).
VarRP1RP2RP3RP4AL
Cr974852296811612.3 a
Cu11421245778109910–40 a
Fe56,32430,03132,64318,68718 a
Mn1030118314361544500 a
Ni108238112853810 a
Pb39456190nd0.3 a
Ti49905910839235190.7 a
Zn573025961511351950 a
Zrnd7617081984.2 b
AL—acceptable limit; a Hurrell et al. [83]; b USEPA [84].
Table
Table 7. Daily elemental intake (DIM) and hazard risk index (HRI).
Table 7. Daily elemental intake (DIM) and hazard risk index (HRI).
VarRP1RP2RP3RP4
DIMHRIDIMHRIDIMHRIDIMHRI
Cr0.41135.290.36118.371.24412.170.48161.26
Cu0.48128.580.52140.230.3287.610.46123.68
Fe23.471.3012.510.7013.600.767.790.43
Mn0.433.070.493.520.604.270.644.60
Ni0.050.230.100.500.472.350.221.12
Pb0.1611.730.021.670.085.65ndnd
Ti2.082.972.463.523.505.001.472.09
Zn2.397.961.083.610.632.101.474.89
Zr ndnd0.320.080.300.070.080.02
nd—not detected.
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Bernardo, B.; Candeias, C.; Rocha, F. The Contribution of the Hulene-B Waste Dump (Maputo, Mozambique) to the Contamination of Rhizosphere Soils, Edible Plants, Stream Waters, and Groundwaters. Environments 2023, 10, 45. https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10030045

AMA Style

Bernardo B, Candeias C, Rocha F. The Contribution of the Hulene-B Waste Dump (Maputo, Mozambique) to the Contamination of Rhizosphere Soils, Edible Plants, Stream Waters, and Groundwaters. Environments. 2023; 10(3):45. https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10030045

Chicago/Turabian Style

Bernardo, Bernardino, Carla Candeias, and Fernando Rocha. 2023. "The Contribution of the Hulene-B Waste Dump (Maputo, Mozambique) to the Contamination of Rhizosphere Soils, Edible Plants, Stream Waters, and Groundwaters" Environments 10, no. 3: 45. https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10030045

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