Monitoring, Assessment, and Remediation of Heavy Metal Contamination: Techniques, Strategies, and Policy Frameworks

Abstract

Heavy metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems poses significant environmental and public health challenges. This manuscript provides a comprehensive review of the sources, pathways, and environmental impacts of heavy metals in water bodies. It examines the intricate interactions between water, sediments, and aquatic organisms, highlighting the bioaccumulation risks to both wildlife and humans. The study also evaluates current monitoring and assessment techniques, including advanced analytical methods and biological indicators, to detect and quantify heavy metal presence. Various remediation strategies are discussed, ranging from traditional methods like chemical stabilization to innovative approaches such as phytoremediation and bioremediation. Additionally, the manuscript reviews existing regulatory frameworks, focusing on Nigerian and international laws aimed at controlling heavy metal pollution. The findings underscore the need for integrated management approaches, combining effective policy enforcement with sustainable remediation practices, to mitigate the adverse effects of heavy metal contamination in aquatic environments.