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Effects of cemeteries on the quality of groundwater
[edit]Cemeteries play a substantial role in our society, providing a final resting place for the deceased. However, their presence raises concerns about potential impacts on groundwater quality[1]. The pollution hazard posed by an incorrectly sited cemetery is as serious (Bacteriologically terrible.) than that of a badly sited landfill.
Groundwater in places with high water tables is particularly sensitive to this form of contamination. The type of rock and soil in an area can influence how contaminants travel through the ground and into the water supply. For example, porous rocks like sandstone allow contaminants to flow more freely, whereas impermeable rocks like clay act as a barrier to contamination[2]. Furthermore, cracks or faults in the rock might provide paths for contaminants to travel through.
It is essential to comprehend the geology of a region to identify appropriate sites for cemeteries. In places where the ground may not be suitable for building cemeteries, effective strategies can be developed to safeguard groundwater resources. This article outlines a study that aims to understand the impact of cemeteries on the quality of groundwater.
Mechanisms of Pollutants
[edit]1.Decomposition of the body
[edit]Decomposition is the process in which the organs and complex molecules of animal and human bodies break down into simple organic matter over time. These organic matters consist of nitrogenous substances such organic acids, phosphates and ammonia, which can lead to nutrient loading in surrounding groundwater and contribute to pollution in aquifers. Pollution (or contamination) can also occur from naturally occurring contaminants, such as arsenic or fluoride.[3].
The decomposition process releases various[4]. organic and inorganic substances into the surrounding soil, which can potentially seep into the groundwater. Organic matters, which includes proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates, decomposes into simpler components as bodies break down. Certain substances, such ammonia and volatile fatty acids, have the potential to seep into the groundwater, particularly in places with shallow water tables or poorly drained soils.
Decomposition releases nutrients that can contaminate groundwater, including phosphorus and nitrogen (in the form of ammonium or nitrate)[5]. When contaminated groundwater enters surface water bodies, it can cause eutrophication, which may harm aquatic ecosystems by promoting excessive plant growth.
2.Influence of Topography
[edit]The inclination of a surface may influence the potential for surface runoff, which could increase the likelihood of contaminants being transported into nearby water bodies rather than filtering through the soil. This could exacerbate surface water quality issues. On the other hand, flat areas may facilitate the accumulation of water, which could result in saturation and an elevated risk of nutrient leaching into the aquifer.
Geological Factors Influencing Contamination
[edit]1. Soil types
[edit]The type of soil like clay,sand,silt, or loam have inevitably affects the rate at which water percolates through it. Clay soils have lower permeability and can slow down the movement of contaminants, providing a natural barrier. In contrast, sandy soils allow for rapid drainage, which facilitates the quick movement of contaminants into groundwater. The distance between the burial site and the water table is critical. A shallow water table increases the risk of contamination, as leachate can quickly reach the groundwater. In areas with deep water tables
, the risk may be lower, but it is still significant as contaminants can still migrate over time.[7]
The presence of aquifers, karst formations, or fractured bedrock can exert a considerable influence on the movement of contaminants through the subsurface. To illustrate, karst topography, typified by the presence of sinkholes and subterranean drainage systems, can facilitate the rapid and direct transport of contaminants to aquifer sources. The flow dynamics of groundwater, including the direction and velocity of flow, also exert an influence on contamination. In the event that a cemetery is situated upstream of a drinking water well, contaminants can directly impact the quality of the water. On the other hand, if the groundwater flows away from the well, the risks may be reduced.[8]
2.Hydrogeological conditions and seasonal changes
[edit]In areas with steep groundwater gradients, contaminants may move more rapidly due to the tendency of water to flow swiftly towards lower elevations. This can result in the contamination of drinking water wells in a relatively short time frame. It is therefore crucial to gain an understanding of the recharge areas in question. In the event that a cemetery is situated within a groundwater recharge zone, the risk of contamination entering the aquifer system increases significantly, given that the area is of critical importance for replenishing groundwater supplies.[9][10][11]
An increase in precipitation can result in elevated groundwater levels and facilitate the leaching of contaminants from cemeteries, particularly in soil types with reduced infiltration rates. During periods of drought, lower groundwater levels may lead to the concentration of contaminants, thereby enhancing their toxicity and potential impact on water quality.
Prevention
[edit]1.Groundwater quality monitoring
[edit]Reference
[edit]- ^ Engelbrecht, J (May 1998). "Groundwater Pollution from Cemeteries". The Water Institute of South Africa. 1: 1–8.
- ^ Tredoux, G; Cavé, L; Engelbrecht, P (2007-12-04). "Groundwater pollution: Are we monitoring appropriate parameters?". Water SA. 30 (5). doi:10.4314/wsa.v30i5.5180. ISSN 0378-4738.
- ^ Adelana, Segun Michael (2014). Groundwater: Hydrogeochemistry, Environmental Impacts and Management Practices. Nova Science Publishers, Inc. ISBN 978-1-63321-791-1. OCLC 915416488.
- ^ Engelbrecht, J (May 1998). "Groundwater Pollution from Cemeteries". The Water Institute of South Africa. 1: 1–8.
- ^ A.T. Ekubo and J.F.N. Abowei (10 November 2011). "Aspects of Aquatic Pollution in Nigeria" (PDF). Research Journal of Environmental and Earth Sciences. 3 (6): 684 – via Maxwell Scientific Organization.
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
Wolf2015was invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ "Groundwater Sampling". 31 July 2012. Archived from the original on 11 February 2014.
- ^ "Groundwater Sampling". 31 July 2012. Archived from the original on 11 February 2014.
- ^ World Health Organization (WHO) (2006). "Protecting Groundwater for Health - Understanding the drinking-water catchment" (PDF). Retrieved 20 March 2017.
- ^ Foster S, Hirata H (1988). Groundwater Pollution Risk Assessment. Lima, Peru: Pan American Centre for Sanitary Engineering and Environmental Sciences.
- ^ Foster S, Hirata H, Gomes D, D'Elia M (2002). Groundwater quality protection: a guide for water utilities, municipal authorities, and environment agencies.