Deposition of Potentially Toxic Metals in the Soil from Surrounding Cement Plants in a Karst Area of Southeastern Brazil

Cement factories are the main sources of environmental pollutants among different industrial activities, including soil contamination by potentially toxic metals. The karst region Southeastern Brazil is known for implementation large cement producing facilities. This study aims to evaluate whether there an increase in concentration PTM surrounding plants and estimate their harmfulness both local human population environment. In total, 18 samples were collected from surroundings three as well four areas outside influence following metals (PTM) estimated: Cd, Pb, Co, Cu, Cr, Mn, Ni, Zn. results revealed that all concentrations plant significantly higher than control no CPS or CA exceeded national global thresholds. However, Igeo Index indicated low level high levels Co. We could not verify significant non-carcinogenic risk health any sample, but carcinogenic analysis sampled locations, adults children. Our indicate exclusively evaluating enough potential harmful effects production population. Here we evidence additional indices, based on indices assessments, should be considered better evaluation impacts activity.