Assessing Environmental Pollution in Kosovo’s Industrial Areas Using Plant Bioindicators

Abstract

Environmental pollution is a global issue, and Kosovo is no exception, grappling with extensive mining activities. The research aims to assess the influence of industrial pollution in Drenas and Mitrovica using oxidative stress biomarkers (malondialdehyde -MDA, and the amount of glutathione transferase -GST) and biochemical indicators (total proteins) in three plant species (Achillea millefolium, Hypericum perforatum and Plantago lanceolata). Plants were collected within a one-kilometer radius around industrial complexes in Drenas and Mitrovica, with Peja serving as a control point. In the homogenate of plant leaves, total proteins were determined using the Lowry method, MDA levels were determined using the Health Packer method, and GST activity was assessed using Habig method. GST activity was higher in the three plant species collected in Drenas and Mitrovica compared to those in Peje, the control point. Apart from Hypericum perforatoum in Mitrovica, the study revealed a significant increase in MDA levels in the three plant species from industrial areas compared to those in the control point. Generally, plants collected in industrial areas exhibited lower total protein levels than those in Peja. A negative correlation was observed between MDA levels and total proteins of Achillea millefolium and Plantago lanceolata, but not in Hypericum perforatum. The findings underscore the impact of pollution on the three plant species investigated in the study.