This study is focused on the presentation and discussion of data related to heavy metals in selected locations in the Lori region in Armenia. A complex set of environmental and biological samples were taken and analyzed. Environmental samples were sediments, soil (mostly from vegetable gardens or other agricultural fields) and sand, or soil from children playgrounds. Biological samples included human hair and free-range chicken eggs. Environmental samples and human hair samples were analyzed for heavy metal content and the results of the analysis are reported in this study. The chicken eggs investigation is reported in a separated study.
Introduction
Sampling of the environment in and around municipalities of Alaverdi, Akhtala, Teghut in the Lori region in Armenia took place in July of 2018. The aim of the study is to monitor the presence of heavy metals in the industrial area and to analyze its effects on both human health and quality of the environment. Sampling was followed by a chemical analysis of collected samples with a focus on heavy metals. Analyses of environmental samples took place at the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Czech Republic, and the National Institute of Public Health in the Czech Republic.
The evaluation of the influence of the copper-processing industry in the region of Alaverdi on the local population and the environment is part of the study. As the potential sources of pollution were Alaverdi copper and molybdenum smelter, copper and molybdenum mines in Akhtala and Teghut and tailing dams in Akhtala, Teghut and Mets Ayrum. The study follows up and continues with the work of previously published studies and expands their findings with sediments and some areas, which were not monitored.
