Zinc in the Environment

摘要

Metals such as arsenic, lead, copper, chromium, and zinc are classed as metals which are progressively accumulating in the environment according to the UNEP 1987 Montreal Protocol and the Basel Convention. Generally the effect of zinc phytotoxicity is not significant until more than 2,800 mg/kg occurs in soils. This is not true for old, fragile soils as found in alpine regions, and the concentration could be as low as 6 mg/kg, or lower to be toxic for some basic plant life. The bioavailable zinc present in the environment is commonly found in sewage sludge, storm water, and in some soils. Some of the sources are roof runoff during rain, vulcanized rubber from tyres, or corrosion of zinc coated steel. This work notes the implications in the alpine regions and that an indefinite moratorium of the use of zinc, which is based on limited research on the exposure of zinc coated wire mesh to acidic soil, has severe implications on access and safety in Australian National Parks for employees and the public if the total ban is implemented.