Pollution Characteristics and Ecological Risk Assessment of Typical Heavy Metals in the Soil of the Heavy Industrial City Baotou

Urban soil samples were collected from the major heavy industrial city of Baotou in Inner Mongolia, China, to investigate the concentration, spatial distribution, and pollution levels of heavy metals. The study employed the geoaccumulation index (Igeo), ecological risk index, and spatial interpolation methods to comprehensively assess urban soil pollution. The results indicated that apart from arsenic (As) and nickel (Ni), the concentrations of heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), mercury (Hg), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and lead (Pb) were significantly higher than the corresponding background values in the study areas. According to the geoaccumulation index (Igeo), the overall pollution level in the study area ranged from uncontaminated to low pollution. However, variations existed among different urban districts. Among Baotou’s four main urban areas, the soil pollution level in Kundulun District was notably higher compared to the other three urban areas. Mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) exhibited relatively higher pollution levels across the four district sites. The observed pollution characteristics are closely linked to the distinct industrial attributes of the urban districts: the Kundulun District of Baotou, Inner Mongolia, is renowned for its significant presence of industrial activities such as steel manufacturing, power generation, and coal combustion. These industries play a crucial role in the local economy but also contribute substantially to heavy metal emissions, leading to notable environmental impacts. Similar to the Kundulun District, the Qingshan District of Baotou, Inner Mongolia, is significantly influenced by industrial activities, which have led to elevated concentrations of certain heavy metals and formed higher potential ecological risk index (PERI) hotspots. Implications and Recommendations. The disparity in industrial activities across the four urban districts of Baotou is a principal factor contributing to variations in pollution levels and ecological risks. In conclusion, this research highlights the necessity of aligning industrial zoning with effective environmental management strategies to combat heavy metal pollution in urban soils. By implementing these integrated approaches, Baotou can safeguard its environment and public health, paving the way for a sustainable future.