Ecological situation in the area of non-ferrous metals mining on the slopes of the Eastern Caucasus

Abstract

The article provides information on the history of the development of Sadon ore field, Tyrnyauz tungsten-molybdenum and Urupsk deposits. A description of landscape changes occurred in the process of mining and processing of non-ferrous metal ores in places of mining enterprises dislocation is given. It has been shown that soil pollution in the area of mining facilities activity with heavy and toxic trace elements has mineralization of mining origin. It has been established that in the areas of dislocation of existing mountain objects, landscapes and soils, which are an integral part of ecosystems, have a pronounced zonation, each of which has certain components that influence the formation of ecological situation. Low levels of lead and zinc have been found in seasonal vegetables (potato tubers) and high, exceeding MAC – in perennial fruit crops (apples, pears). It is noted that only the use of scientifically based measures based on real positive results, taking into account geo-environmental factors, can affect efficient environmental management under the considered conditions.