Microbial and Heavy Metal Presence and Impact on Soil Pollution for Central Albania

Abstract

This scientific study was undertaken by presenting data on the presence of microorganisms (bacteria) and heavy metals found in the underground layers of Elbasan city. From the obtained results, it was judged whether the presence of bacteria and chemical elements is at such levels as to be considered as a soil pollution factor. The main purpose of this scientific paper is to provide the possible correlation between chemical and microbial soil pollution, which directly or indirectly affects the health of the city's residents. To achieve this goal, five soil samples were taken by digging to a depth of 0.5 m, during March 2023. Mainly, the Elbasan area has been at the center of criticism over the years and is considered an area with significant atmospheric pollution, of a chemical and microbiological nature. We have obtained results that prove chemical and bacterial data that can be considered as a soil pollution factor. In conclusion, based on the analysis of the results and compared with the permitted rates of pollution, the level of chemical pollution of the soil from the nickel element appears, which is in the amount of about 2 and a half times more than the standards determined by the relevant Regulatory Acts of the EU. Based on the study and monitoring that was done to the Elbasan city, we think that soil pollution is mainly dedicated to the activity of the farmer in the misuse of organic and chemical fertilizers, the mismanagement of wastewater by the relevant authorities, and especially the abusive activity to the detriment of nature carried out by industries that operate in the city.