A GIS and Multivariate Analysis Approach for Mapping Heavy Metals and Metalloids Contamination in Landfills: A Case Study from Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
A GIS and Multivariate Analysis Approach for Mapping Heavy Metals and Metalloids Contamination in Landfills: A Case Study from Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
This study employs Geographic Information Systems (GIS) combined with multivariate
statistical techniques to evaluate soil contamination at two landfill sites in Al-Kharj, Saudi
Arabia. A total of 32 soil samples were collected and analyzed for heavy metals and
metalloids (HMs) using a range of contamination indices and established soil quality
standards. GIS mapping revealed that the Al-Kharj landfill 1 (Kj1) experienced a steady
area expansion from 2014 through 2025, while landfill Kj2 expanded from 2014 until 2022,
after which its area contracted following the construction of additional facilities. The
average values of HMs observed were as follows: Fe (9909 mg/kg), Al (6709 mg/kg),
Mn (155.9 mg/kg), Zn (36.4 mg/kg), Cr (24.1 mg/kg), V (22.2 mg/kg), Ni (19.5 mg/kg),
Cu (8.20 mg/kg), Pb (7.91 mg/kg), Co (4.32 mg/kg), and As (2.29 mg/kg). Notably, Kj2
exhibited overall higher HM concentrations than Kj1, with particularly elevated levels of
Cr, Ni, and Pb. Although most HMs remained within internationally accepted safety limits,
only three samples (9.4% of the total) exceeded the WHO threshold for Pb (>30 mg/kg). An
analysis using contamination and enrichment factors pointed to increased concentrations
of Pb, Zn, and Cr, suggesting localized anthropogenic contributions. Additionally, all
samples recorded an ecological risk index (Eri) below 40, and the levels of As, Cr, and Pb
consistently stayed under their respective effects range-low (ERL) thresholds, indicating
minimal contamination risks. The variations in HM contamination between the sites are
likely attributable to differences in the sources of metal inputs and removal processes.
These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and localized remediation
strategies to ensure environmental safety and sustainable landfill management.
This study comprehensively evaluates heavy metal (HM) contamination and associated
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Pb, Zn, As, Cr, Cu,…
The present study is among the first to
assess the health and environmental risks of heavy metals
(HMs) in the soil of palm farms in the Al-Jilah area,
west of Riyadh. This was achieved…
Heavy metal contamination in soil is a global issue threatening human health and
ecosystems. Accurate spatial maps of heavy metals (HMs) are vital to mitigating the adverse
effects on the…