DOI: https://doi.org/10.36719/2789-6919/48/90-96
Gizyetar Shabanova
Azerbaijan State Agrarian University
Master student
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-5725-1101
qizyetersabanova@gmail.com
Impact of Ore Mining Operations on Soil, Water and Biodiversity in the Dashkasan Area
Abstract
Dashkasan district is a mineral-rich region of Azerbaijan where mining activities contribute significantly to the local economy. However, these activities have serious environmental impacts on soil, water resources and biodiversity. Open-pit mining disrupts soil structure, reduces fertility, and accelerates erosion. Heavy metals such as lead, arsenic and cadmium contaminate soil and water, posing risks to plants, aquatic organisms, and human health.
Mining operations also threaten flora and fauna by reducing habitats, increasing extinction risks for rare and endemic species and disturbing animal behavior through noise, dust and other anthropogenic impacts.
To mitigate these issues, continuous environmental monitoring, waste management, soil and water restoration, land reclamation, phytoremediation, and the application of “green mining” technologies are essential. Without comprehensive interventions, the region’s ecological balance may suffer long-term and irreversible damage.
Keywords: Dashkasan, ore mining, soil contamination, water contamination, heavy metals, biodiversity, flora, fauna, environmental problems, ecotechnologies, sustainable development