Environmental monitoring of soil and vegetation in uranium mining areas
Abstract Uranium mining activities in southern Kazakhstan pose ecological risks due to the accumulation of radionuclides and heavy metals in soil and vegetation. This study aimed to assess the radiological and chemical status of ecosystems near uranium mining sites using radiometric analysis, X-ray spectrometry, and bioindication methods. A total of 78 soil and 37 plant samples were collected in 2021–2023 from sites near settlements labeled N, B, and S. Results showed that seven soil samples exceeded the maximum permissible concentration (MPC) for background radiation, with values reaching up to 1.25× MPC. 40K was the most prominent radionuclide in vegetation, averaging 680 Bq/kg, while U-238 was not detected in plant tissues. Heavy metals such as Pb exceeded safety thresholds in plants, with an average of 19.6 mg/kg (3.9× MPC). Zn and P showed variable uptake depending on species and location. Floristic analysis revealed 32 species in experimental sites, including endemic taxa. However, no significant structural anomalies were observed in plant tissues. The study concludes that while large-scale contamination is absent, localized zones of elevated radioactivity and heavy metal accumulation warrant continuous environmental monitoring.