Analyzing Pesticides and Heavy Metals in Soil: Implications for Environmental and Public Health

Soil pollution by pesticides and heavy metals poses a serious threat to environmental quality and human health, particularly in agricultural regions where chemical inputs are heavily utilized. This study investigated the levels of selected pesticides and heavy metals in soil samples collected from agricultural farmlands in Potiskum. A total of five (5) composite soil samples were analyzed for organophosphate, organochlorine, and carbamate pesticide residues using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), while concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Results indicated that pesticide residues such as chlorpyrifos (0.15–0.32 mg/kg) and lindane (0.08–0.21 mg/kg) were present in detectable amounts, with some exceeding the FAO/WHO maximum residue limits (MRLs). Heavy metal concentrations varied across sites, with Pb (12.3–36.5 mg/kg) and Cd (0.5–1.2 mg/kg) approaching or surpassing international soil quality guidelines. The findings suggest potential ecological and health risks associated with prolonged pesticide application and heavy metal accumulation in the study area. Strengthened regulatory enforcement, promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, and periodic monitoring of soil quality are recommended.