Assessment of Environmental and Health Risks of Lead Accumulation in Soil and Selected Agricultural Crops in the Libyan Coast

Abstract

Heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils and food crops represents a critical environmental and public health concern, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions undergoing rapid anthropogenic pressures. This study comprehensively evaluates the environmental and health risks associated with lead (Pb) accumulation in agricultural soils and prominent crop species cultivated along the Libyan coastal strip. Soil and plant samples were collected from major agricultural zones, digested using standard acid procedures, and analyzed for lead concentrations using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The findings revealed that soil lead concentrations varied significantly across locations, with several localized hotspots exceeding permissible international thresholds due to industrial activities, traffic emissions, and the intensive application of agrochemicals. Furthermore, bioaccumulation factors indicated varying degrees of lead uptake by leafy and root crops, raising potential concerns for human dietary exposure. Health risk assessment metrics, including the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), and Hazard Index (HI), demonstrated that prolonged consumption of specific locally grown crops poses non-carcinogenic health Statistical evaluations using ANOVA and regression models confirmed strong correlations between soil physicochemical properties, such as pH and organic matter content, and the mobility and plant availability of lead. The incorporation of organic amendments and phytoremediation strategies is recommended to mitigate soil toxicity and ensure food safety standards. These results underscore the urgent need for stringent environmental monitoring, regulatory enforcement, and sustainable soil management practices to protect the ecological integrity of the Libyan coastal agricultural sector and safeguard public health.