ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSOCIATED WITH LEAD LEVELS IN GROUNDWATER FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION IN THE BABA CANTON, ECUADOR

Abstract

Introduction:
Population growth and industrial development have caused an alarming increase in the sources of contamination near water supply wells. This situation compromises the quality of groundwater, which is vital for the population, resulting in an increase in the development of chronic diseases in humans.
Objective:
To evaluate the environmental impact associated with lead concentrations in water from supply wells intended for human consumption in Baba canton, Ecuador.
Materials and Methods:
Water samples were collected in triplicate from five water supply wells in Baba canton and lead concentrations were quantified by atomic absorption spectrometry, comparing them with parameters established in the Environmental Quality Standard, the European Union Directive and the World Health Organization Guide. The environmental impact was determined using an equation scientifically validated by Arada et al., (2017).
Results and Discussion:
Lead concentrations in the five supply wells exceeded both national and international parameters (0.793±0.053 mg/L). The quantified environmental impact based on the regulations (Environmental Quality Standard, EU Directive and WHO Guide) was +0.78 and +0.74 evidencing severe damage to the water quality of the supply wells with adverse effects on the health of the population.
Conclusions:
The presence of lead in the groundwater of Baba canton represents a serious environmental and health risk, being necessary to implement mitigation measures and continuous monitoring to protect the population.