Heavy Metal Risks in Water and Reduction Strategies for the Pelileo - Ambato Irrigation Canal, Ecuador

Abstract

The Pelileo-Ambato irrigation canal, located in Tungurahua province, is supplied by the Ambato River and serves as a source of water for Pelileo canton communities engaged in agricultural activities. However, analysis revealed that the water from the irrigation canal is contaminated with copper, cadmium, and lead with concentrations that exceed the acceptable levels established in the Water Quality Standard Ministerial Agreement No. 097-A created by the Ministry of Environment of Ecuador. This study aims to identify potential sources of contamination and associated risks to the environment and communities utilizing the waterway. The study also proposes effective prevention and mitigation strategies to minimize these risks. Our findings reveal that 24 industries operating near the canal are significant sources of contamination, and community members face a variety of health risks from gastrointestinal diseases to cancer as a result of exposure. Mitigation strategies such as Phytoremediation and Rhizofiltration, along with prevention efforts involving the community, authorities, farmers, and textile industries, are recommended based on the available evidence.