Effect of Kostomuksha mining and ore dressing complex on soils in adjacent areas

The effect caused by Kostomuksha industrial complex (Karelian Pellet JSC) on the properties of soils within the10 km radius was studied. The aim was to obtain quantitative characteristics of the soil and to assess its quality in conditions of combined sulphur and heavy metal pollution. Soil acidity (salt extract pH) and sulphur content in the soil were determined by the techniques widely used in soil science. The amount of heavy metals was determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The resultant data were compared with the soil characteristics from the reference area of the integrated monitored polygon Kamalahti in Kostomuksha Nature Reserve. We observed reduction in soil acidity, accumulation of sulphur, heavy metals, and iron when compared with the soils from the reference areas. The main pollution sources are the iron ore quarry, the pelletizing plant, and the wastewater sump. Major pollutants of the territory are sulphur, iron, chromium, nickel, lead, cobalt, and manganese. The complex is surrounded by heavy and moderate pollution zones - the former within the 1-2 km radius, and the latter within the 7-8 km radius.