Distribution of Metals in Soils Surrounding Tailing Flotation Storages in Copper-Bearing Areas in Lower Silesia

One of the most critical issues in soil science is the content of metals and their environmental toxicity. This is especially relevant to soil contamination by metals in industrial and postindustrial areas. The region of Lower Silesia, known for exploitation of Cu and Ag deposits, along with Zn and Pb, is significantly affected by metal contamination near post-flotation waste facilities in both old and new copper districts. Metal concentrations in soils adjacent to abandoned tailings storage facilities in the copper district were measured to identify factors influencing contamination in agricultural and technogenic soils. Concentrations of copper, lead, and zinc were determined in 111 samples taken from nine soil profiles down to a depth of 1.60 m. Significant variation was observed in metal content: in agricultural soils, copper reached up to 2800 mg/kg, lead up to 150 mg/kg, and zinc up to 65 mg/kg. In forest soils, concentrations reached as high as 1700 mg/kg for copper, 1800 mg/kg for lead, and up to 1100 mg/kg for zinc. The metal content increased with proximity to the tailings storage. Soil profiles closest to the emission source showed the highest metal concentrations, while concentrations of Cu, Pb, and Zn decreased with distance.