Clean-Up of Environmental Hotspots Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Assessment of Environmental Monitoring Capacities in Bor

Transcription

1 Clean-Up of Environmental Hotspots Federal Republic of Yugoslavia Assessment of Environmental Monitoring Capacities in Bor Mission Report Interagency Mission to Bor May 2002 UNEP/Post-Conflict Assessment Unit Geneva, September 2002

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Executive Summary 3 2. Introduction General description of Bor and its environmental problems Environmental and health monitoring mission Mission findings and conclusions Air monitoring Meteorological data Air pollution monitoring Groundwater and drinking water monitoring Surface water monitoring Wastewater monitoring Soil monitoring Waste material monitoring Recommendations References 55 ANNEXES 56 Annex 1: Sampling results and locations 56 Annex 2: FRY legislation on water pollution control & wastewater 79 treatment Annex 3: FRY legislation concerning air pollution 99 Annex 4: EU Policies for Pollution Control 108 Annex 5: Effects of Selected Pollutants 112 Annex 6: Mission Participants and Mission Programme 115 2

3 1. Executive Summary The Municipality of Bor today faces an enormous challenge regarding building a healthy and sustainable future for its inhabitants and at the same time addressing the environmental and socio-economic legacy of several decades of polluting industrial development. The industrial activities in the Bor area, heavily concentrating on mining activities, have caused serious environmental problems and raised concerns about the health effects for the population in the area. While looking for alternative and complementary ways to develop the economic structure of the region, Bor one of the environmental hotspots of FRY in addition to a strong commitment from the local community, will need strong support from the responsible national authorities. The UNEP Programme Environmental Clean-up of Hotspots in FRY, is currently implementing conflict related clean-up and risk reduction activities in hotspots, identified in the UNEP/BTF Feasibility Study (April 2000). At the request of Bor Municipality, UNEP Clean-up Programme is providing assistance to Bor in the field of environmental monitoring. The current environment and health monitoring capacities in Bor make it difficult for the responsible authorities to inform the citizens in time of potential risks and to prepare effective measures for environment and health protection in the Bor area. The UNEP Monitoring Mission to Bor (later ref. the Mission), , was undertaken in cooperation with the Ministry for Protection of Natural Resources and Environment of the Republic of Serbia and the Federal Secretariat for Labour, Health and Social Care/Environmental Department. The focal point appointed by the Municipality of Bor provided strong support for the mission, and the Institute for Public Health (IPH) of Belgrade gave considerable input to the mission preparations and the required sampling campaign. By involving the competent authorities and public institutions, thereby ensuring a transparent working process, the UNEP Monitoring Mission also aimed to enhance institutional capacities as well as to ensure the continued involvement of the competent authorities in the recommended follow-up. The objective of the Mission was to assess the status of environmental monitoring in Bor, then identify and recommend priority assistance in support of environmental monitoring. Furthermore UNEP hoped the mission would encourage the relevant national and local environmental and health authorities to consider and act upon possible correlations between key environmental characteristics and local health concerns. The monitoring mission report presents several concrete recommendations for improving the current monitoring capacities in the Bor area in the fields of air, water and soil monitoring. With regards to air monitoring it is very important in the short-term to provide equipment to Bor allowing continuous measurement of sulphur dioxide, measurement of airborne particulate matter and measurement of metallic elements, especially arsenic. In the medium and longer-term a statistical review of bronchial problems, cancer and hospital 3

4 admissions data is recommended, provided suitable comparisons can be made with other regions of FRY. Also in the medium term, consideration should be given to the installation of emissions monitoring equipment particularly for sulphur dioxide. In the longer term there is a clear need for the competent national authorities to effectively assist FRY industry and utilities in the application of environmental management and controls, and also monitor the application and enforcement of environmental legislation. With regards to drinking water and groundwater monitoring, it is important to implement regular monitoring of all relevant parameters according to FRY and international legislation. In particular, analyses of heavy metals and organic parameters in drinking and ground water should be ensured either through increased national cooperation between relevant institutions or through supply of equipment to one of the laboratories in the Bor area. Concerning on-going monitoring of surface waters, regular analyses of all relevant organic parameters should be ensured either through increased national cooperation between relevant institutions or through supply of equipment to one of the local laboratories. With regards to wastewater monitoring there is a lack of information on wastewater discharges from industry and domestic effluents in terms of volume and strength. In order to address the problem a stepwise approach should be implemented consisting of identifying, quantifying and characterizing wastewater discharges in Bor (also assessing the current manpower and equipment capacity and additional requirements to carry out basic regulatory analysis and reporting). At the moment there is only limited information about the quality of the soil and the damage caused by mining and agriculture in the Bor area. In order to get an overview of the situation, basic monitoring should be implemented stepwise including, in addition to the basic parameters (such as ph, moisture, total organic materials, mineral oil, sulfur hydrocarbons and inorganic and organic nitrogen and sulphate), heavy metals, PCB, PAHs and pesticides that have been used in the area. With regards to waste monitoring there appears to be no information on volume, category and disposal route of waste materials in the Bor area and no effective regulatory framework and reporting structure. For e.g. the landfill site at Bor does not carry out any environmental monitoring and there is a lack of environmental control. The situation is therefore similar in many ways to problems with wastewater monitoring Based on the recommendation of the Mission and following further discussions with Bor stakeholders, as well as relevant national authorities, UNEP, within its budget limits, is prepared to assist Bor by providing monitoring equipment as well as training and capacity building on design and implementation of monitoring programmes. It is important to note that for any improvements in the monitoring capacities, the technical component must be accompanied by strengthening of human capacities. In 4

5 addition, it is crucial that the local stakeholders and relevant national authorities are committed to cooperating in a transparent manner, allowing all existing information to be shared and optimally used by the decision makers. Taking into account the financial constraints, this would also facilitate cost-efficient share of responsibilities and tasks between the different competent institutions. Parallel to this process, it is evident that improvements in the existing legislative framework should be made and, in particular, capacities to monitor and enforce the legislation/regulations should be strengthened. The central objective of any monitoring activities should be to support emission reduction and improvement in people s quality of life. In order to allow potential financing partners to assess the benefits and costs of potential projects efficiently, the baseline information provided by monitoring activities must be coherent and valid for international comparison. The investment and remediation needs to overcome the serious environmental problems in Bor are considerable. Mitigation of the current environmental problems in Bor will require the full commitment of both local and national authorities as well as assistance from the international community. Following the executive summary, Chapter 2 provides a general description of Bor and its environmental problems. It also presents the objectives and framework, including the role of UNEP, for the interagency environmental and health monitoring mission. The mission activities, main findings and conclusions are presented in Chapter 3 with recommendations for improving the environmental monitoring and information capacities in Bor elaborated in more detail in Chapter 4. Relevant complementary information (including sampling results and legislation concerning environmental monitoring) is compiled in Annexes

6 2. Introduction 2.1 General description of Bor and its environmental problems The Municipality of Bor is located in a mountainous and forested area in the southeastern part of Serbia, close to the Bulgarian and Romanian borders, at approx. 160 km from Belgrade. It has a total population of people of which live in the city of Bor. Administratively it forms part of the Zajecar region, which has its capital in the city of Zajecar. Main economic activity comprises mining and metal processing. In between and inhabitants are reportedly employed in this sector. Map 1. Bor is located in the southeastern part of Serbia 6

7 The area has been a major centre for mining and processing of copper and other precious metals for almost a century. Mining production started in 1903 with the exploitation of the only underground mine, followed by exploitation of 3 other open pits in the Bor area (as from 1912, 1979 and 1990 respectively). The mining activities have left a strong mark on the surrounding landscape, most strongly characterized by the huge open cast mines (in total accounting for some ha). Continued immigration over the decades of workers for the mining and smelting complex, resulted in the gradual transformation of the originally agriculturally-based village of Bor into today s city of Bor with most urban residential areas built close to and around its main employer i.e. the mining and smelting complex (the city s centre is less than one kilometre away from pits and smelter). The industrial activities in Bor, in particular those by the mining and smelter complex, have resulted in substantive negative impacts on the environment in the region (including for air, water, and soil) as well as having raised serious concerns about associated health effects of the pollution at large 1. The fact that the main polluter is also the main employer in the area highlights the need to solve the environmental problems in a wider economic and social context 2. 1 Bor, May Municipal Assembly Bor. 2 The mines and associated processing in the area are operated by the RTB Group. 7

8 Map 2. Bor mines - one underground mine, two operating pits (Krivelj, Cerovo), four prospects 3 Source: Bor: Environmental Assessment. IPH Belgrade Taking into account the political and economic situation during the 1990s, vital investments in up-grading the production facilities have been non-existent, causing poor production efficiency, questionable process reliability and inadequate environmental controls 4. Industrial environmental pollution remains high in Bor as a result of the poor ecological performance by the mining and smelter complex, even though total production levels have fallen over the past decade due to reduced copper ore concentrations and a 3 The Majdanpek mines, 70 km north of Bor are not considered in this report. 4 Mined copper ore contains only a fraction by weight of actual copper in the form of compounds made up typically of 30% copper, 27% iron and 33% sulphur. The low concentrations of copper in mined material results in the massive physical scale of copper production operations worldwide. Copper content of the mined material in Bor mines is in general less than 0.5%. This means that practically 99.5% of the material mined at Bor is waste, which has to be separated from the copper to produce a useable product. The waste material contains many toxic components, which include large amounts of bound sulphur and metallic elements including arsenic, lead, cadmium, mercury etc. 8

9 decline in production efficiency rates. Consequently Bor remains one of the environmental hotspots of FRY. The main source of environmental pollution in the Municipality of Bor consists of the Mining & Smelter Complex, and in particular the following activities: the flotation process (water pollution) the smelting process (air-, water-, and soil pollution) the open cast pits and surrounding waste heaps (air- and water pollution) and underground mining (water pollution). Other polluting sources include a thermal power and heating plant (air pollution), a graphics factory, the municipal sewage system, a car component production plant, a textile factory, a polyester plant, a slaughterhouse, and a medical centre (all water pollution). Air pollution is perceived as the main environmental problem in the Bor region. Reportedly, during the most extensive production years, up to tonnes of sulphur dioxide and more than 1000 tonnes of particulate contaminated with heavy metals (including arsenic, bismuth, lead, zinc, cadmium, nickel, mercury, germanium, gallium, manganese, molybdenum, antimony, titanium, vanadium etc) and up to 1000 tonnes arsenic, 500 tonnes lead, 2500 tonnes zinc and 1.6 tonnes of mercury were emitted to the atmosphere each year 5. According to recent estimates, taking into account the considerable decrease in production during last years, some tonnes of sulphur dioxide and several hundred tonnes of particulate contaminated with heavy metals and up to 360 tonnes arsenic, 83 tonnes lead, 830 tonnes zinc and tonnes of mercury are emitted to the atmosphere during The smelting process liberates the sulphur as sulphur dioxide. The sulphur dioxide may be used to produce sulphuric acid, which is produced on-site in an acid plant. The sulphuric acid is then used in the electrolytic plant as an electrolyte in the further purification of the copper to >99%. Not all the sulphur dioxide produced is required or can be used in the acid plant, although much of the excess sulphuric acid is used in the manufacture of fertilizer. To compound the problem of excess sulphur dioxide, there has been no reinvestment and therefore much of the production, recovery and pollution arrestment plant is in a state of disrepair. As a consequence, a large amount of sulphur dioxide is discharged directly into the atmosphere together with entrained solids and toxic metals. The rest of the separated waste materials are discharged as solid or liquid wastes into the environment 7. 5 These rough estimates have been provided by local stakeholders as well as FRY environmental authorities. However, the basis for these figures/calculation was not clarified to the mission. Bor; Environmental Assessment, IPH Belgrade, Institute of Public Health of Belgrade, May Figures provided by RTB Bor. Ref. RTB Bor official letter to UNEP/UNOPS, dated Note: these figures, based on estimated amount and quality of ore processed, are considerably lower than the general figures for last years, presented by IPH Belgrade and Bor Municipality reports. 7 The liquid waste is supplemented by process water demand, which reportedly rises to million cubic metres per year. This water is obtained from Bor Lake, causing considerable decreases in its normal level. 9

10 According to the Bor stakeholders, the gas emissions contain hundreds of tons of dust together with considerable quantities of heavy and volatile metals 8. In addition, airborne dust resulting from open cast pits and surrounding waste heaps, which contain heavy metals, contributes to the air pollution of the area. Taking into account the location of the industrial complex and dominant wind directions, these pollutants are spread over the town of Bor and the surrounding area. The inhabitants of Bor municipality are exposed therefore to high levels of air pollution, which can pose serious risks to their health. Also there may be an international or transboundary dimension to the air pollution problem as winds might carry emissions to nearby Bulgaria and Romania and perhaps even further. Industrial wastewaters include effluent from the mining process, the sulphuric acid plant, electrolyte plants, the gold plant and the smelter plant. The existing wastewater treatment plants are currently out of operation or operating at very limited capacity. Consequently, the copper-bearing wastewaters as well as wastewaters from metallurgical and chemical processes are discharged without any treatment into the Bor and Krivelj rivers, and through them into the rivers Timok and Danube. Reportedly, the amount of discharge of wastewaters can occasionally reach several hundred cubic meters per hour. With these wastewaters considerable amounts of sulphuric acid, suspended matters, heavy metals and other pollutants (copper, arsenic, lead, zinc, cadmium, mercury, iron, nickel, antimony, chlorine and others) are discharged. In addition, other production facilities (incl. graphics factory, car production plant, textile factory, polyester factory, slaughterhouse, medical centre) contribute further to the amount of untreated wastewaters. The municipal wastewaters and associated sewerage from the city of Bor are also discharged without any treatment into River Bor. Large amounts of polluted water are created as a result of the floatation process. These waters are stored in large ponds that are at the limit of their carrying capacity. According to the local and national authorities, there is a considerable risk that the existing dams could collapse and thus create an environmental disaster in the downstream area. 8 E.g. Bor, May Municipal Assembly Bor, Bor: Environmental Assessment, IPH Belgrade.2002 and RTB Bor letter to UNEP/UNOPS, dated

11 Map 3. The Bor industrial area Source: Bor: Environmental Assessment. IPH Belgrade One particular problem is caused by the concrete collector that is carrying the Krivelj River for approximately 2 km. Reportedly, the structural state of the concrete culvert, constructed under one of the several tailing lagoons, is in constant danger of collapsing under the weight of the tailing material 9. Collapse of the tunnel would allow the lagoon to 9 For review of collector situation see Economic, environmental and public health assessment, Bor Municipality, Yugoslavia IWMG February 2001 and feasibility report from Rudarski Institute November 11

12 empty under the dam, possibly causing the dam to collapse. The lagoon contents would be discharged into the local rivers and ultimately the Danube causing considerable environmental damage. The industrial activities in Bor are also responsible for major soil pollution. In addition to the extensive surface areas that were required for the open cast mines 10, the industrial activities have had negative effects on the quality of soil. Taking into account the importance of agriculture as a source of income, and in particular as a potential strategic area for economic recovery and development of the area, it is important to identify the sources of soil degradation 11. According to the Bor stakeholders, the area of fertile agricultural land degraded by the emissions from the smelter - and hence reducing the area of land suitable for agricultural use - amounts to several thousand hectares. In addition, fertile agricultural land was degraded by the regular discharge and dumping of solid wastes in the downstream area of Bor city, in particular at the confluence area of the rivers Bor and Timok. In addition, waste heaps gathered around open cast pits, can produce leachates that contaminate surrounding land and watercourses. The management of industrial and municipal solid wastes in the Bor area is not organized in a proper manner. The municipal landfill site is situated close to the town, with no leachate treatment or methane collection. Regular fires at the site have further increased the risks of improper waste management. Municipal waste, including also hospital and other organic waste, is dumped on the municipal landfill within the mining complex (see Map3). Given the characteristics and dimensions of industrial production in Bor including its waste streams, local capacities to manage hazardous wastes clearly are far from adequate. During the 1999 bombing, transformer station TS3 was destroyed. Since then, a new transformer station has been designed and construction on the location of the previous station is expected to be completed by September However, the PCB-contaminated materials and equipment removed by RTB Bor workers from transformer station TS3, as well as other hazardous wastes are improperly stored at the open dump site within RTB Bor, can cause further risks to the environment and the health of workers. The potential risks and health effects of these hazardous components have not been measured in a systematic and regular manner by the competent authorities Reportedly, routine inspection of the tunnel already in 1992 highlighted longitudinal cracking, which indicated imminent collapse. Further risk assessment work, conducted in supports the conclusions of the previous studies, indicating a considerable risk of collector collapse in the future. Repairs have occasionally continued to date under difficult conditions. 10 In the case of Bor, to give an idea of the proportions, in order to produce the million tonnes of copper, the design production of the current Bor mines is approximately million tonnes of mined ore. Currently the actual production is lower than this amount. 11 Agriculture has been identified by Bor stakeholders as one of the potential strategic fields for future development and diversification of the economic structure in Bor area. 12

13 With regards to potable water, there are supply problems for the city of Bor as well as the surrounding villages. Shortages are highest during the dry summer season causing further concern for providing a healthy environment for the local population. Bor is no exception to the general situation in Serbia given its capacities for addressing health problems in the area. There is a lack of systematic information gathering and analysis of general health indicators in Bor. In particular, capacities to monitor the severe environmental pollution and its direct and/or indirect consequences to public health clearly are not sufficient. This situation needs immediate improvement, as the provision of timely and accurate information to decision makers and the general public are key preconditions for enhancing local capacities in the planning and management of health protection in Bor. 2.2 Environmental and health monitoring mission UNEP work in FRY The UNEP report entitled The Kosovo Conflict - Consequences for the Environment and Human Settlements published in October 1999, highlighted a number of important conclusions on the post conflict situation in the FRY and in particular singled out four heavily polluted environmental hot spots (Pancevo, Kragujevac, Novi Sad and Bor), for immediate humanitarian assistance 12. Following the above general assessment report and a subsequent expert mission in February 2000 which produced a portfolio of 27 priority projects in the 4 hotspots with a total estimated cost of US$ 20 million (as per UNEP Feasibility Study Report dated April 2000), the international donor community responded promptly and allocated first financial contributions which allowed UNEP to start implementing environmental clean-up activities in FRY starting from autumn The project is carried out in partnership with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), the designated implementing agency. After a careful process of prioritization (ref. UNEP mandate and funding framework) and taking into account self-initiated activities by local Bor stakeholders, neither of the two UNEP projects identified for Bor in the Feasibility Study report have been implemented 13. A major part of the considerable environmental problems in Bor is connected to the mining industry. In general, the conflict-related environmental consequences are of minor significance compared to other urgent economic, environmental and social needs within the Municipality of Bor. 12 Progress report and further information on UNEP activities in FRY at 13 During August and September of 2001, UNEP conducted an assessment at the former transformer site at the RTB Bor, in order to study the extent and levels of PCB pollution in soil and associated underground water. Based on the analysis performed, including the risk-based protective level of PCB of 25 mg/kg in the surface soil, it was recommended that the remedial alternative No action be implemented. 13

14 However, at the request of local and national stakeholders, UNEP has provided further environmental assistance to the Municipality of Bor. In particular the areas of environmental monitoring and support to the Local Environmental Action Plan (LEAP) process, have been agreed upon jointly with the Bor stakeholders as suitable fields for further cooperation 14. The LEAP process was initiated in Bor in early 2001 and has the full support of the Municipality. This process is expected to provide important inputs to creating a community vision and to relevant national authorities and stakeholders as to how to overcome the considerable environmental problems in the area. The Municipality of Bor, in collaboration with relevant local stakeholders, has prepared a general list of environmental and social priority projects for Bor. Consequently, the issues of waste gas emissions, uncontrolled discharge of wastewaters, environmental risks related to flotation tailing ponds, as well as the loss of agricultural and habitable land, have been pointed out as high priority projects. In addition, a need to improve the level and capacities of environmental and health monitoring in Bor has been identified. The current capacities make it difficult to provide the general public with accurate and reliable information in a timely manner and to prepare effective measures for environmental and health prevention and protection. The investments and remediation works needed to overcome all of the environmental problems in Bor are tremendous. Mitigation of the environmental problems in Bor will require the full commitment of both local and national authorities as well as assistance from the international community. Objectives and expected output of the mission In order to assess the existing situation of environmental monitoring in Bor municipality, UNEP organized an expert mission to Bor (UNEP Monitoring Mission to Bor) in May The mission was guided by the following principles: The main objective of any monitoring activity should be to support emission reductions; and To enable responsible national and local authorities as well as other prospective funding partners to perform sound cost-benefit analyses of investments in support of environmental protection, the monitoring results must comply with international standards/practices in terms of coherence and validity. The objective of this mission was to assess the status of environmental monitoring in Bor thereby consulting the relevant stakeholders, and to identify and recommend priority assistance in support of environmental monitoring 16. Furthermore UNEP hopes the 14 Reference is made to several meetings in 2001 and 2002 between Municipality of Bor and UNEP, in particular the meeting between Municipality of Bor and UNEP/UNOPS mission, in Bor. 15 For list of mission participants and mission programme, see Annex 6 16 The monitoring mission should also provide substantive input to the on-going LEAP process in Bor. 14

15 mission will encourage the relevant national and local environmental and health authorities to consider possible correlations between key environmental characteristics and local health concerns. The UNEP expert mission was to focus their assessment on the monitoring of air, water and soil pollution thereby considering available equipment and prevailing analytical/laboratory methods (including comparative analyses with relevant international methods and standards). Furthermore and as an integral part herein, the mission was to undertake an assessment of the institutional framework, systems/structures of reporting as well as the local implementation capacities (incl. human resources). The mission was expected to carefully review all background information on environmental and health monitoring made available by the local and/or national authorities. Furthermore the comparison of relevant parts of the federal and republican environmental legislation with the concerned international legislation thereby taking into account also the EU approximation process, would form a good basis for the mission in identifying any amendments and/or new components to the existing monitoring systems in place. After completion of the above assessment activities, priorities for action in the fields of air monitoring, groundwater monitoring and soil monitoring were to be identified and recommended. In order to arrive at feasible, pragmatic and cost-effective solutions for improving environmental monitoring capacities, options for using and/or up-grading already existing systems/facilities/mechanisms were to be considered. The mission report should also hereby provide clear recommendations for any capacity building and training required to accompany the identified priority areas for assistance. With regards to health monitoring issues, the Mission was to take note of all relevant issues and make sure that the respective competent national competent authorities would be informed about the findings and recommendations. Co-operation framework and reporting The Mission was carried out in co-operation with local and national authorities within the framework of the UNEP Programme on Environmental Clean-up of Hotspots in FRY. By involving the competent authorities and public institutions, thereby ensuring a transparent working process, the mission also aimed to enhance institutional capacities and to ensure the continued involvement of the competent authorities/institutions in the follow-up on the mission s recommendations with respect to both environmental and health monitoring issues. In addition to the UNEP representatives, the Mission team was comprised of experts from the Ministry for Health and Environmental Protection of Serbia/Directorate for Environmental Protection and the Institute of Public Health Belgrade, the Federal Secretariat for Labour, Health and Social Care/Environmental Department. IPH Belgrade also provided essential inputs to the preparation of the mission, including air, water and soil sampling and analysis, and preparation of a background report on the environmental situation in Bor. 15

16 The Municipality of Bor provided extensive assistance to the mission preparations and its organization and it had nominated a local coordinator as the focal point for mission preparations and execution in Bor. The Mission Report is to report on the findings and conclusions and give recommendations for concrete follow-up work. All mission participants and local stakeholders were invited to review and comment the final draft of mission report. Following subsequent consultations with Bor Municipality and relevant environmental authorities UNEP is ready to provide assistance to Bor to improve the current environmental monitoring and information capacities in Bor. The mission report is made available to all interested parties. 16

17 3. Mission findings and conclusions 3.1 Air monitoring In this mission report the effects of the copper mining and processing activities carried out in Bor and adjacent sites on air quality are examined in the context of current EU and other international legislation, guidance, monitoring protocols and standards. Current air monitoring strategies carried out by the FRY authorities are reviewed. Concerning atmospheric pollution major environmental issues in the Bor area include: a) Annual emissions to the atmosphere, during high levels of production, of reportedly up to up to tonnes of sulphur dioxide and more than 1000 tonnes of particulate contaminated with heavy metals and up to 1000 tonnes arsenic, 500 tonnes lead, 2500 tonnes zinc and 1.6 tonnes of mercury. According to recent estimates, taking into account the considerable decrease in production during last years, some tonnes of sulphur dioxide and several hundred tonnes of particulate contaminated with heavy metals and up to 360 tonnes arsenic, 83 tonnes lead, 830 tonnes zinc and tonnes of mercury are emitted to the atmosphere in b) Emissions from the smelter chimneys are spread throughout Bor and its vicinity and can affect Bulgaria, Romania and the rest of Europe; c) The continuous burning of materials at the landfill site; d) The windblown toxic dusts from the unstable dry tailings, particularly from the dams, which affect the entire area; and e) The potential overall effect on health and well being that the pollution in Bor and surrounding regions is having on workers and the general population in the area. Air pollution control and associated legislation is less developed in FRY than in the EU 18. The Federal laws on environmental protection have established their jurisdiction in the field of air protection, especially when pollution limits are exceeded. However, they have not provided an institutional form of organization for performing these tasks. On the basis of its jurisdiction (laws and regulations) it has been the responsibility of the relevant Republic Ministries to perform systematic emission controls through state institutions (republic, city, communal health protection institutes). It is important to note that the environmental legislative framework on the Republican level is being amended, and should provide more efficient tools for environmental protection in the fields of air as well as water and soil protection. 17 See page 9, for references (footnotes 5 and 6). 18 For a short summary of relevant FRY legislation in the field of air pollution control see Annex 3. 17

18 Despite some significant pollution sources, including the copper complex at Bor, the enforcement of the existing legislation as well as the enforcement capacities have so far been insufficient. Taking into account the economic development of the last decade, there is a lack of directed resources, which can be managed and used for pollution control in general. Consequently, emission measurements in FRY are not properly institutionalized and there is currently no organized form of monitoring. In cases of excessive pollution, in general only classical methods and meteorological equipment, which identify the phenomenon but does not analyse it further, are used. The existing analytical equipment is not uniform, i.e. it is not subjected to periodic, uniform calibration controls supervised by the competent authorities. A considerable amount of equipment is out of order due to the lack of spare parts, standard solutions etc. Picture 1. Bor smelter (May 2002) 18

19 19

20 Environmental authorities in FRY have highlighted and measured the following atmospheric pollutants and fallout from the mining and processing operations at Bor: a) Sulphur dioxide and smoke; b) Metals suspensions in the atmosphere such as lead, cadmium, manganese, nickel, chromium, arsenic and mercury; and c) Atmospheric particulate deposits and rainwater which includes analysis for ph, sulphate, calcium, magnesium, dried residue, insoluble material, organic material, ash, lead, cadmium and zinc Map 4. The current measuring spots for air quality monitoring in Bor area Source: Environmental Assessment. IPH Belgrade

21 The analysis of environmental samples is carried out by state approved organisations. These are mainly local public health institutes, although the Copper Institute at Bor is approved to carry out atmospheric sampling and analysis around Bor. The Copper Institute Bor is only approved for atmospheric monitoring. The Institute of Public Health, Zajecar, is also approved to carry out similar operations, although in Bor sampling is limited to one site. The IPH Zajecar is also approved for potable and wastewater analysis. There does not appear to be a formal structure for reporting and cooperation, which would normally include quality control, validation, assessment of the data and prepared actions to be taken in the event of exceeding of limits. In general the equipment used in the Bor area is very limited and does not target the real problems, in particular short-term sulphur dioxide exposure and toxic respirable dust. Transitory concentrations of sulphur dioxide can cause serious respiratory problems. Based on data provided by the Copper Institute, Bor, metallic components in the dust may be another concern for health 19. In particular, arsenic was highlighted in the data as a toxic component present in significant concentrations in the settleable matter. For e.g. the equipment used in the Bor area is capable of measuring only 24-hour average concentrations, meaning that peak concentrations are not measured and it is not possible to take direct action in the event of a serious incident since the data is retrospective Meteorological Data Mission findings The Copper Institute was visited by the monitoring mission on May 14 th and 15 th 2002 and the meteorological instrumentation and reporting structure reviewed. Meteorology is an important but ancillary subject in the assessment of atmospheric pollution. Validated meteorological data is essential for modelling atmospheric pollution sources. Wind speed and direction indicate environmental risk areas affected by major pollution sources. In the case of accidental releases of toxic vapours, immediate assessment of plume direction is necessary for prioritisation of emergency actions. Knowledge of prevailing weather gives a guide to the location of areas affected in the long term. The measurement of rainfall and its ph and sulphate gives important background information on the sulphuric acid fallout generated by sulphur dioxide emissions in the area. In the Bor area meteorological data is collected by the Copper Institute at Bor. Weather is monitored using a conventional mechanical system and traditional measurements of humidity, temperature, rainfall and maximum/minimum temperatures. An in-house produced electronic computerized system, measuring several parameters including air pressure, solar radiation, wind speed/direction, humidity, temperature and background noise is also used, although several sensors were unserviceable due to lack of appropriate parts. 19 Copper Institute, Bor. Monthly report for March

22 According to mission findings there does not appear to be any formal calibration procedure for the instrumentation. The Copper Institute issues monthly reports, which combine atmospheric monitoring data with meteorological data. The reports include daily data for wind speed/wind direction, temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure and the atmospheric contaminant monitoring data. The most recent report for March 2002 was available to the interagency monitoring mission Conclusions From the provided meteorological data, the prevailing winds were found to be predominantly from west - northwest and therefore tend to carry the pollution away from the main centres of population. During rainy periods the typical east or southeast winds are of more concern. From the March 2002 data it was clear that low or zero wind conditions occur regularly 20. Light and variable winds are likely to cause very high localized concentrations of vapours. Inversions may also occur in these situations, which would be expected to cause a build up of vapours in the general area. Sulphur dioxide appears likely to be the most serious atmospheric pollutant from the industrial processes in the area. Sulphur dioxide readily and easily dissolves in water. Rainfall in the area would be expected to be at least mildly acidic and this is confirmed in the ph measurements of collected rainfall Air pollution monitoring Mission findings Over the period 12 th 16 th May 2002 the expert group visited the focal points of atmospheric pollution and the Institutes tasked with carrying out atmospheric monitoring in the Bor region as well as relevant laboratory facilities in Belgrade. The Institute of Public Health laboratories at Belgrade and Zajecar as well as the Copper Institute Bor were visited, the available resources assessed and current data and systems reviewed. The FRY, EU, UK Environment Agency, UNECE and WHO air quality guidelines, standards and legislation have been used for reference. In addition, National Society For Clean Air And Environmental Protection journals were used for background information. EU references to air pollution are appended (see Annexes 1, 2 and 4). 20 Copper Institute, Bor. Monthly report for March

23 Copper Institute, Bor The expert team visited the Institute on 14 th May A second visit was made on the 15 th May to examine the air monitoring and meteorological data collection systems in greater detail. The Copper Institute at Bor is wholly owned by RTB the owner of the mine and smelter complexes. The main purpose of the Institute is to provide quality control and engineering backup for the mines and processes. The Copper Institute, together with the Institute of Public Health, Zajecar are responsible for air monitoring in the Bor area. The Department for Quality Control of the Environment was formed in A staff of 22 specializes in atmospheric monitoring. Monitoring is limited to sulphur dioxide, smoke, dust and toxic metal deposition together with weather monitoring. Filters from 8 port samplers used in the sampling for smoke are analysed for metals. Total suspended particulate has also been measured on an irregular basis. A sampler with a flow injection analyser was also available but apparently little used. The bulk of the work is the operation of three UK standard 8 port samplers 21, which measure sulphur dioxide and smoke, and 33 settle plates which measure atmospheric fallout. The 8 port samplers are situated within the Bor town confines and the settle plates are situated in fixed positions around the region. Sulphur dioxide concentrations at the Opstina site in Bor exceeded 250 µg/m3 on 10 days in March Of particular significance to the situation at Bor, areas around smelters and close to the burning of high arsenic coal, is the fact that airborne arsenic can exceed 1 µg/m 3. In total only 16 data sets for the settle plates were reported for March Analysis of the samples from the 8 port samplers is carried out using traditional titration and colorimetric techniques based on, but not entirely compliant with, BS1747/ISO4219: Smoke measurements are carried out using a standard reflectance instrument. Metals analysis on the deposited material and retained matter on the smoke filters is carried out using Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrophotometer (ARL 3410 radial) and flame, graphite furnace, cold vapour and hydride Atomic Absorption (PE403, PE1100B, PE AS90/FIMS). The Institute laboratories also operate analytical equipment, which is not used for environmental analysis, but could be useful in this 21 The 8 port sampler consists of 8 individual samplers, which are automatically switched on a daily basis, giving eight-day operation with attendance necessary only once a week. The sampler collects sulphur dioxide and fine suspended particulate (as black smoke). Analysis of the retained samples provides mean daily concentrations of sulphur dioxide and black smoke. The sampler works by drawing air at a constant measured flow rate through a filter paper. The suspended dust collects on the filter paper producing a dark stain. An instrument known as a reflectometer is used to measure the darkness of the stain and the measurement used to calculate the concentration of the particulate matter in the sampled air using a standard calibration (in the UK the British Standard calibration). Sulphur dioxide is measured by passing the air used for the dust measurement through a dilute acidified solution of hydrogen peroxide. The sulphur dioxide reacts with the hydrogen peroxide to form sulphuric acid, which is titrated with a standard alkaline solution, and the sulphur dioxide concentration calculated using a standard calculation. British Standard 1747 and ISO 9835 are reference documents for the technique. 22 Copper Institute, Bor. Monthly report for March

24 application, including spark emission spectrophotometers with mass spectrometry and X- ray fluorescence (XRF). The most recent monthly report by the Copper Institute, combining atmospheric monitoring data with meteorological data was provided to the monitoring mission. Monthly deposition data for settleable matter and metals is included in the report. With regards to the atmospheric monitoring data produced by the Copper Institute, there is no recognizable quality system available and it would be difficult to validate and audit the data to a typical standard (e.g. ISO 17025). Institute Of Public Health, Zajecar The expert team visited the Institute on May 16 th The IPH Zajecar is approved for sampling and analysis relating to public health in the counties of Bor and Zajecar. Sampling and analysis for all areas of public health including air monitoring is undertaken by 13 staff. Air monitoring is limited to the occasional use of modern Yugoslavian design samplers based on the UK 8 port system using impingers and filters for smoke measurement. Three locations are regularly measured including one in Bor. Winter is an important period due to the extensive use of coal. Seventeen settle plates are also set up throughout the region. Sample analysis instrumentation is very limited at IPH Zajecar. Low-level metals analysis is a very important area of work in the environmental field and currently no equipment is available for this type of analysis in Bor (e.g. graphite furnace atomic absorption). Manpower required for the regulatory work, i.e. compliance with current Yugoslavian environmental standards and future compliance with EU and other international environmental standards, is also very limited As with the Copper Institute, there is a lack of an established quality system, which would satisfy the requirements of an International Standard (e.g. ISO17025). It is important to note that the manpower required to implement a quality system is considerable, including considerable preparatory work and complementary training systems. Institute For Public Health, Belgrade The laboratory facilities at the IPH Belgrade were visited as part of the monitoring mission briefing on Monday 13 th May IPH Belgrade provided considerable input to pre-mission preparations and in particular, was invited by UNEP to be in charge of the sampling and analysis component of the monitoring mission. The IPH Belgrade is in the process of up-grading its capacities and has undergone a major refit recently. One objective is to reach laboratory compliance with ISO with the required external accreditation process currently on-going. The laboratory has a recognizable quality system for environmental samples, although the system is still in the early stages of establishment. It is expected that this laboratory will be the only laboratory 24

25 accredited to international standards for environmental analysis in FRY within the near future. However, the capacity for atmospheric sampling is restricted. Sampling systems are limited to the UK standard 8 port samplers for sulphur dioxide and smoke. It is likely that some increase in capacity is required for the Belgrade area in the future, and it is recommendable to include passive sampling for nitrogen dioxide and benzene. PM 10 particulate measurements should also be considered at a later date. However, there does not appear to be a single point source of atmospheric pollution as there is in the case of Bor. Consequently, there seems to be no requirement for more sophisticated on-line measurements in Belgrade until basic area screening with simple techniques has been carried out. Although the IPH Belgrade facilities are good in many areas, there are restrictions in operations outside the Belgrade area. The Bor complex is within the boundary of the Zajecar authorities and IPH Zajecar therefore has jurisdiction together with the Copper Institute at Bor for atmospheric sampling and analysis. There is a good case for closer cooperation between the IPH Belgrade and the other Institutions, particularly in the establishment of quality systems and inter-laboratory check schemes Conclusions The background data from the institutes indicate that sulphur dioxide, particulate and arsenic from the smelter complex and particulate (which also include arsenic) from windblown unstable dam material are major atmospheric pollutants in the mining and processing areas of Bor. The pollutants may have a severe effect on the health of the local population. In the regions adjacent to Bor, smoke from coal may also be a problem during winter. The air monitoring programme in Bor requires some redirection of resources and additional equipment in order to measure sulphur dioxide and particulate on a real-time basis since it is probable that short term concentrations of both these pollutants can be very high. New monitoring equipment is required to comply with current international standard methods and sampling periods, on which limit values are based. The daily average data obtained so far is indicative but may not reflect the true seriousness of the situation. Some automatic particulate continuous monitoring instruments would allow subsequent analysis of the particulate. This would allow effective monitoring for arsenic and other metallics. The Copper Institute, Bor is currently better equipped and staffed than the other institutes considered in this study to carry out atmospheric monitoring and assess data 23. The IPH Belgrade has better quality systems but is relatively weak in the area of air monitoring and has little jurisdiction outside Belgrade. The IPH Zajecar has rather poor resources and is understaffed in comparison with the other institutes involved in atmospheric monitoring. Consequently, here atmospheric monitoring also remains clearly a low priority. 23 Reference is made to both IPH Zajecar and IPH Belgrade. 25

26 Although facilities are better at the Copper Institute, the ownership of the Institute by RTB can result in a conflict of interests. Therefore it is important to carefully consider the transparency and share of all relevant information at all stages in order to ensure the credibility and optimal use of the data. In addition, good quality systems are required. Cooperation with the IPH Belgrade in the areas of quality and auditing may be appropriate. There is currently no stack emissions monitoring programme for the emissions from the Bor complex. A validated monitoring programme would be difficult and expensive to establish but would be an essential part of dispersion modelling and atmospheric loading determinations. Sulphur Dioxide Sulphur dioxide and particulate from combustion and industrial processes are major pollutants throughout the world. Volcanic action is a natural source that contributes to environmental concentrations in Europe. There is evidence of some geothermal activity in the mountains around Bor. Effects of sulphur dioxide on health and the environment is appended (see Annex 5). There has been a significant decline in sulphur dioxide concentrations in Europe due to emission controls and the change from small multiple emissions e.g. houses, to large sources such as power stations which control emissions and discharge at higher altitudes, thus improving dispersion and dilution. Long-range transport is now generally of more concern. In urban areas the typical annual mean concentration range is µg/m 3 with daily means not exceeding 125 µg/m 3. However, where coal is still used for domestic heating, and there are problem industrial sources in the area, concentrations can reach µg /m 3 over a 10-minute averaging time. 24 According to data for March 2002 provided by the Copper Institute Bor, both the Yugoslavian 24 hour limit (150 µg/m 3 ) and the EC 24 hour limit (125 µg/m 3 ) were exceeded during most days investigated 25. Smoke and Particulate Matter Historically the measurement of airborne suspended particulate and black smoke have been linked. This is due to the fact that most particulate resulted from the burning of fossil fuels, in particular coal. Black smoke refers to fine dark suspended particulate, which can be measured by a relatively simple smoke stain technique. This is the basis of the technique used for measuring smoke at Bor. 24 Air Quality Guidelines for Europe. WHO (Second edition) 25 During the period , sulphur dioxide maximum values of several thousand µg/m 3 (up to 6501 at sampling spot Stari Centar ) have been measured, Bor, May Municipal Assembly Bor 26

27 However, although emissions of black smoke have in general declined in Europe, other sources of particulate emissions have taken precedence. The colour of particulate has also changed and become lighter 26. The measurement of black smoke may under-read the actual particulate concentration as calculated using, for e.g., the standard British Standard calibration. Several other factors (for e.g., as provided by the OECD) may be used but the fact is that for meaningful data, particularly at lower concentrations, more sophisticated instrumentation is required. The WHO Guidelines recommend that smoke measurements are limited to areas where coal smoke from domestic fires is dominant. Clearly this is not the situation at Bor. Bor does not have a problem with black smoke according to the data made available to the monitoring mission. Daily data on smoke indicates that concentrations were below the Yugoslavian limit of 50 µg/m 3 for e.g., throughout March However, in light of the statements above, the data may not reflect the true situation regarding airborne dusts in the area. There has been a large amount of historical black smoke data generated by the Copper Institute for the area around Bor. There will be problems relating the historical data with, for example, the PM 10 particulate guidelines. The term particulate matter in an atmospheric context is difficult to interpret and all aspects concerning measurement, methods and data interpretation are subject to controversy. The links and effects with other pollutants (for example sulphur dioxide) are also controversial. Particulate matter represents a complex and variable mixture of organic and inorganic materials. It is accepted by many authorities to categorize particulate according to size. Coarse particles are those greater than 2.5 microns (µm) aerodynamic diameter. Fine particles are those less than 2.5 µm. The smaller particles include aerosols and recondensed vapours. The larger particles include blown dust, road dust and some industrial dust. Acidic components, for example from sulphur dioxide, may be contained in the fine fraction although fog may contain acidic droplets of a larger size 28. Further confusion arises over the detection of particulate matter as a result of the many methodologies available for measurement with the resulting variations in comparative data. Basically, the operation of two techniques side by side for the same sampling period, measuring the same parameter (e.g. PM 10 ) can give different results. However, notwithstanding the above comments, dust sampling should be carried out using instrumentation capable of measuring PM 10. There is currently no data available for 26 EU legislation (e.g. the Sulphur Dioxide and Suspended Particulates Directive 80/779/EEC) and The Clean Air Act in the UK has targeted smoke and there have been significant reductions in black smoke concentrations in Europe 27 Copper Institute, Bor. Monthly report for March Several terms are used to describe particulate matter. Sampling procedures are used as a definition e.g. suspended particulate matter, total suspended particulate, black smoke, settleable particulate. PM 10 sampling measures particulate with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 um (micron). Particulate with this characteristic has the ability to penetrate deep into the respiratory tract. However, this size range includes the PM 2.5 fraction, which has been associated with most of the acute effects of particulate. PM 10 may therefore be a proxy measurement for the finer particles. 27

28 size defined particulate in the Bor area due to lack of sampling equipment. Short summary of health and environmental effects of particulate and smoke are appended (see Annex 5). The Use Of Settle Plates Or Deposit Gauges In Bor, dust is measured as settleable matter and black smoke. Settle plates are commonly used in combination with rain gauges to assess precipitation and acid anion deposition. For e.g., in the UK, deposit gauges are used almost exclusively for the determination of nuisance (with British Standard BS1747 as the reference). The technology is simple and easy to operate. However, there is little published information on limits and expected background levels for settle plate surveys. The FRY legislation refers to limiting values for heavy metals as total sedimented substances. However, lead, cadmium and zinc are the only metals referred to. Arsenic is not included in the legislation. 29 With regards to lacking information, an additional problem is that arsenic, which is the most prevalent toxic metallic element, is missing from the current settled material data 30. Although the settled matter data is a useful indicator, such measurements are of limited value in assessing health effects. All international dust guidelines are now referred to as respirable concentrations either PM 10 or PM 2.5 (particle size in microns). These sizes are important in that they are particles, which are small enough to penetrate deep into the respiratory system. Sampling systems to measure these particles are relatively complex and expensive. The Copper Institute and the IPH Zajecar operate 50 settle plates in the region. The use of settleable matter and daily average smoke concentrations as well as associated equipment use should be reviewed since this data is of less significance than real-time sulphur dioxide and PM 10 particulate measurements in terms of health impact and the resources available may be better redirected. The measurement of rainfall together with measurement of ph and sulphate should be continued however, since these are useful long-term environmental indicators. Arsenic There is no capacity at present for measuring arsenic and other metallics at Bor in an appropriate and regular way. The measurement of settled material and associated metallic species by the Copper Institute and IPH Zajecar is an indicator but cannot be directly related to current guidelines for human health. The analysis of the smoke filters from the 8 port samplers is useful but it is difficult to relate the sampling to established methodology e.g. M type samplers FRY limits for settleable metals are given in emission limit regulations stated in Official Gazette RS No54/92. See Annex Copper Institute, Bor. Monthly report for March The M type sampler is designed to sample fine airborne particulate for subsequent metals analysis. The characteristics of the sampling head conform to the EC Council Directive on a Limit Value for Lead in Air OJ L378, In principle, a known volume of air is passed through a filter paper. The particulate is 28

29 It is difficult to interpret the current FRY limit of 2.5 ng/m 3 for arsenic in air although it is acknowledged that the WHO Guidelines give no safe limit due to its carcinogenic nature. Typical background concentrations range from 1-10 ng/m 3, so the FRY limit therefore appears to be very restrictive. Additional details on arsenic in the atmospheric compartment are appended (see Annex 5). Other Pollutants There is a potential that other atmospheric pollutants are of concern around Bor. The data provided by the IPH Belgrade highlight other metals e.g. cadmium and nickel 32. Chromium may also be a problem. However, it is probable that other pollutant concentrations are linked to the primary pollutants of sulphur dioxide, particulate and arsenic and it is recommended that effort and resources are concentrated on the primary pollutants in the first instance. retained by the filter, which can be removed for subsequent analysis. A development (the MD sampler) is directional and can therefore be used to assess point source emissions. 32 Chemical Analyses Of Ground and Surface Water, Soil, Plants, River Sediment And Suspended Particles In Ambient Air in The Bor Area. Institute Of Public Health, Belgrade. May For results, see Annex 1 29

30 3.2 Groundwater and drinking water monitoring Mission findings Due to the fact that throughout the whole area around Bor there is no treatment, besides disinfection of the groundwater, the issues of groundwater and drinking water will both be addressed in this section. The wider surroundings of the City of Bor are a mountain area that is rich in potable water springs. However, there are great differences in the capacities of the water sources during the rainy and dry seasons of the year. The waterworks in Bor have three different sources for drinking water. The main source consists of three springs located in Kriveljska Banjica. The three springs were visited on May 15 th, These springs have a capacity of about 3000 L/sec in the rainy season, which is reduced to about 200 L/sec in dry season (autumn). The other sources have a much lower capacity. Consequently, during the autumn drinking water is not available all the time. During the months with the lowest capacity of the springs drinking water will only be delivered for 4 hours per day, corresponding to a lack of drinking water in the City of Bor of about 140 l/sec in the dry season. Also during the rainy season there is sometimes a lack of drinking water because of insufficient reservoirs for the peak consumption. There are also wells in the City of Bor, which are used by the public especially in the dry season, like the public drinking fountain Hajducka cesma. In addition, in the nearby settlements, the Trnavac well serves as a source of drinking water and the Slatina well as a source for watering of agricultural areas. A lot of wells are also used as private drinking water wells or for irrigation. Reportedly, these wells are regularly monitored by the Bor Medical Centre according to their bacteriological status, but only a limited number of parameters are examined. Due to worn-out state and damaged water installations the water losses are estimated at approximately 30 % due to leakage of the network. There is currently no treatment of the raw water in Bor area. Only disinfection with chlorine is available at different points. Disinfection is available at the pumping stations of the catchment area of Kriveljska Banjica and at three different reservoirs. The Bor waterworks are not only responsible for the city of Bor but also for the whole region, including Zlot, Brestovac, Slatina, Ostrelj and Donja Bela Reka. Federal and Republican regulations provide the legal framework for water protection from pollutants, preventive measures to be undertaken and penal measures 33. With regards to groundwater, there is no specific legislation for groundwater available in FRY. However, 33 For a short summary of relevant FRY legislation concerning water pollution control, see Annexes 1 and 2. For comparison general EU policies for pollution control are included in Annexes 4 and 2. 30

31 drinking water, as one of the essential elements of life and health of the population is given special attention in the current legislation. The quality and potability of drinking water are regulated and prescribed by the Regulations on Hygienic Safety of Drinking Water (SI. I. SRJ 42/98) and Regulations on Sampling Mode and Methods for Laboratory Analysis of Drinking Water (SI. I. SRJ 33/98). These regulations are based on the Law on Hygienic Safety of Dairy Products and Objects in General Use (58/85) 34. These regulations define relevant parameters, maximum allowed concentrations, sampling methods and equipment. They also define the minimum number of analyses, which have to be performed according to the size of the waterworks. According to these regulations the waterworks of the City of Bor should do 6 analyses per month of the basic parameters, which include controlling the microbiological indicators as well as some physical and chemical parameters. Twice a year the Bor waterworks should measure also the parameters of the periodic examinations according to the above-mentioned regulations, which include beside the basic parameters detergents, phenols, disinfectants and their byproducts, mineral oils and specific expected contaminations 35. According to the FRY regulations, from wells which supply water for less than EI (Equivalent Inhabitants) 13 samples should be taken 36. For small wells, which supply only one family, there are no regulations available. According to this regulation it is not compulsory to analyse for heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, pesticides, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons and other substances on a regular basis but only in a new water source. In the EU regulation 98/83/EC on the quality of water intended for human consumption is valid. In this ordinance the parametric values are based on the scientific knowledge available and the precautionary principle has also been taken into account. These values ensure that water intended for human consumption can be consumed safely on a life-long basis. According to this regulation also monitoring programmes should be established that this water meets the requirements also at the point where water is made available to the user. Methods used to analyse the quality of water should be such as to ensure that the results obtained are reliable and comparable. In this regulation it is also fixed, that the consumers should be informed of the quality of water 37. It can be noted that there is a difference between the EU-regulation and the WHOguidelines with regards to the limits for pesticides. The limits of the WHO-guidelines are 34 For relevant parameters, maximum allowed concentrations, methods, and equipment see Annex 1, tables A For related FRY and EU legislation in the field of water protection, see Annexes 2 and See also Chemical Safety of Drinking Water: Identifying Priorities Using Limited Information, WHO (Draft edition) (2001) 36 The regulation defines Equivalent inhabitant (EI) as consumption of 150 L of water per day 37 Within this regulation, in Annex I, part A for microbiological parameters, only the Escherichia coli and the Enterococci have to be measured for not bottled drinking water. In Part B all chemical parameters are listed. Indicator parameters are also fixed in this regulation, which are mentioned in Part C. In this directive there is a difference between check and audit monitoring. In the check monitoring only some parameters, which are mentioned in Annex II, table A are measured. In the audit monitoring all parameters have to be measured minimum once a year. 31

32 based on the risks of these chemicals, whereas in the EU regulations all limits are set to 0.1 g/l based on the assumption that pesticides should not be detected in the ground water. In the EU-regulations for wells, which distribute less than 100 m³/day, there is no prescribed monitoring mentioned. Only the member states can decide a frequency of the monitoring (for e.g., in Germany also private wells should have drinking water quality). With regards to groundwater especially, the council directive 76/464/EC on pollution caused by certain dangerous substances discharged into the aquatic environment of the community is valid. In general all other regulations concerning the protection of water bodies are also valid for groundwater (see also chapter 3.3 below). For e.g., in Germany groundwater should have drinking water quality. Institute of Public Health Zajecar The IPH Zajecar is an approved laboratory for drinking water monitoring in the counties of Bor and Zajecar. It is responsible for analysing drinking water in the region of the City of Bor. The Institute was visited on 16 th May There are 132 persons employed, of which 13 people are employed in environmental monitoring. No quality assurance handbook, with written standard operation procedures is available. The technicians are trained to perform sampling and analysis. At the sampling point temperature and residual chlorine is measured. All other parameters are done in the laboratory. According to the reports, which were received at the Medical Centre Bor, the IPH Zajecar currently measures only a part of the basic parameters (as defined in the FRY legislation) approximately 80 times a month at 10 different places. All the analysis is ordered by the Bor waterworks. Consequently the parameters of the V-programme are not controlled. Currently, the basic parameters like taste and odour, ph, turbidity, KMnO 4 -value, ammonium, chlorine, chloride, nitrate, nitrite and the bacteriological parameters like total coliforme, faecal coli, mesophile bacteria, streptococcus, Proteus and sulphite reducing chlostridia are analysed regularly. Heavy metals are not analysed for the drinking water of the waterworks of Bor. Heavy metals are analysed by IPH Zajecar only in higher contaminated water, because there is only a flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (Unicam 96 AA) and a cold vapour system (Unicam SP 192) for analysing mercury, arsenic and antimon available. For drinking water IPH Zajecar have to enrich the drinking water 1: 40, to reach the limits of the drinking water regulation. All chemical standards for analysis are prepared by the laboratory itself, no crosscheck with old standards is done, decreasing the tracebility of the data. 32

33 Following equipment for measuring environmental parameters is available at IPH Zajecar laboratory: Conductivity Meter ph-meter (Corning ph 435) Infrared spectrophotometer (Prospect IR, Midac) UV-Visible spectrophotometer (Pharmacia) Balances Turbidity Meter (Turb 550 IR, WTW) GC (gas chromatograph) with ECD/FID (Pye-Unicam 304) g-spektrophotometer (Oxford) However, the GC (due to broken column) nor the ECD-Detector (due to too high noise to measure samples) or the g-spektrophotometer are no longer in use (due to problem with the software). Analyses according to the V-Program (current Rulebook for Safety of drinking water) were undertaken by IPH Belgrade in April 2002 as part of the monitoring mission to Bor in May This sampling programme includes also heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu, Cr, Ni, As, Hg), Total Organic Carbon (TOC), Trihalomethane potentials and sulphate and several organic parameters, including pesticides (see Annex 1). These drinking water regulations, with the V-programme are in accordance with WHO-guidelines Medical Centre Bor The Bor Medical Centre was visited during May 15 th, The Medical Centre Bor is an approved laboratory for drinking water monitoring in Bor and the surrounding areas. Drinking and ground water monitoring can be done by IPH Zajecar and Medical Centre Bor. Medical Centre Bor does the environmental analysis for private wells especially in the bacteriological field according to FRY methods. For all bacteriological tests the equipment is available. The samples are collected by the health inspectors (the monitoring mission did not review the sampling equipment). Instruments for the analyses include a conductivity and ph-meter (type Hanna, new equipment) as well as a Spectrophotometer Stasa III (type Gilford). All other equipment is out of use (e.g. Striptec from Tecator) Only basic parameters like bacteriological tests, ph, conductivity, colour, chlorine, KMnO 4 -value, ammonium, nitrate, nitrite, sulphate, chloride and dry residue are analysed in the laboratory. Normally heavy metals are not analysed. If there is a need to investigate for heavy metals, the analyses are sent to the Bor Copper Institute. 33

34 Copper Institute Bor The Copper Institute was visited on Tuesday 14 th May Its purpose is to provide quality control and engineering backup for the mines and processes. The Copper Institute is also active for other companies in the field of mining and processing. The existing laboratory equipment, including atomic adsorption spectrophotometers with flame, graphite furnace and cold vapour technique (PE 403, PE 1100B, PE AS90/FIMS) allow analyses of heavy metals. For further description of the capacities, see also above. However, within environmental monitoring, the limited resources of the Institute s Department for Quality Control of the Environment are concentrated on atmospheric monitoring. Consequently the Copper Institute does no sampling of water or soil. Institute for Public Health (IPH) Belgrade The laboratory facilities at the IPH Belgrade were visited as part of the monitoring mission briefing on Monday 13 th May The IPH Belgrade is approved for sampling and analysis related to public health in the area of Belgrade. IPH Belgrade provided considerable input to pre-mission preparations and in particular, was invited by UNEP to be in charge of the sampling and analysis component of the monitoring mission. In the IPHB laboratory the sampling equipment for water and soil is rather restricted. However, available in the laboratory is all equipment, which is necessary to analyse the required parameters according to the relevant FRY regulations. Also more sophisticated equipment like atomic absorption spectrophotometer with flame, graphit furnace and cold vapour technique for the whole analysis of heavy metals, GC with ECD and FID and also GC/MS for the analysis of organic substances are available. For further description of capacities, see also above Conclusions Currently there is basic data available concerning the drinking water resources in the Bor area. However, the monitoring data covers only a part of the parameters as identified in the Yugoslavian regulations for drinking water. According to the analysis done by the IPH Belgrade there exist no problems with the physico-chemical and chemical quality of the drinking water of the water works. In the public drinking fountain and the wells in Trnavac and Slatina the nitrate content of these wells are too high (90 to 100 mg/l). Also the sulphate concentrations in the public drinking fountain and in the Slatina well are higher than limits with resp mg/l. (see Annex 1 for results and maximum allowed concentrations). According to these data there is no concern about the contamination with organic parameters like solvents and pesticides. However, the high concentration of organic material (TOC) causes a high potential of Trihalomethanes (THM), which are partly 34

35 carcinogenic. Due to the seasonal lacks in water provision and the high water losses there are also bacteriological parameters exceeding the limit values. No conclusions concerning the groundwater and the private water wells are included, due to very limited data available to the monitoring mission. The IPH Zajecar laboratory has a lack of equipment and also manpower to carry out all the necessary analysis for drinking water according to Yugoslavian standards. Basic analytical work can be done. Reports according to the analysed parameters of the waterworks Bor are sent to the Medical Centre Bor. There is a requirement to implement a quality assurance system according to ISO The Medical Centre Bor laboratory does not have all required equipment to carry out all the necessary analysis for drinking water according to FRY standards (or EU-standards). The capacity of manpower is also very limited. There is a lack of a quality assurance system, which would be acceptable for the requirements of an International Standard like ISO Surface water monitoring Mission findings The major riverbeds in Bor area, including Bor river and Krivelj river have been widely used by the mining industry. The river valleys have also been used to deposit the sludge of the flotation for the production of the copper ore, causing many environmental problems in the area. Picture 2. Conjunction of Krivelj and Bor rivers (May 2002) 35

36 To the north of the mining area, the Bor river is diverted into the Krivelj river. Bor river, prior to the diversion, is contaminated through the mining activities with heavy metals. The ph level is reduced due to the high content of iron in the water released into it. This iron comes from oxidising Pyrite, which is a part of the ore. The former Bor river valley is also being used by the mining activities. The wastewater of the mining complex and the city of Bor is discharged into the former riverbed without any treatment. In the downstream direction Bor river is joined by other smaller rivers diluting the contamination prior to the conjunction with the Krivelj river. The bank of the Bor river contains deposits, which looks like deposited mine tailings and only limited vegetation is present. The Krivelj river has also been diverted in order to build in the river valley tailing ponds for the wastewater of the flotation. This river is flowing in a concrete culvert under the tailing ponds. Local stakeholders have expressed fears that the concrete collector is no longer stable enough for the weight of the tailing pond. Picture 3. Concrete collector, tunnel outlet - Krivelj river (May 2002) 36

37 The quality of Krivelj river is also influenced by the mining activities. According to sampling results the iron and copper content in the river is very high, whereas the ph level is very low (see Annex 1). The low ph is caused by the Pyrite oxidation and the iron precipitation. The water quality of Timok river is also influenced by the mining activities, and after conjunction with Bor river the water quality changes due to the quality of Bor river. The FRY and Republic of Serbia legislation provide the legal framework for protection of surface waters (see Annex 3). The by-law on classification of water courses classifies water courses in four classes according to their pollution level and their purpose 38. The classes are: Class I: water that, in natural state or after disinfection, can be used for drinking water supply, food industry and fine fish (salmonidae) breeding. Class II: water appropriate for bathing, recreation, water sports, less fine fish (cyprinidae) breeding, including water that, after basic treatment methods (coagulation, filtration and disinfection), can be used for drinking water supply and food industry. Class III: water that can be used for irrigation and industries except food industry. Class IV: water that can be used only after special treatment. Based on this law, the Bor river is, from its source to the Bor settlement, defined/ classified as IIa category water flow. Downstream, from the Bor settlement to its confluence with Timok, as category IV water flow. It means that the water should be in accordance with class IV of river waters, while the Krivelj river has not been categorized at all. According to this law the Timok river is, from the settlement of Zajecar to its confluence with Bor River, categorized as IIb water. From that point on, to its confluence with the Danube it is categorized as III category water flow. There is an EU-regulation concerning the quality required of surface water intended for the abstraction of drinking water (75/440/EWG). The approach is that water resources used for the abstraction of water for human consumption in general necessitate a reduction in pollution. According to this regulation there are three different qualities of surface water according to the different treatment steps, which have to be used for producing safe drinking water. A1: Simple Physical treatment and disinfection A2: Normal Physical and chemical treatment and disinfection A3: Physical and a more advanced chemical treatment, like oxidisation, adsorption and disinfection This regulation is only valid for surface water, which perhaps is used for abstraction of drinking water. Within the EU, there are several regulations concerning the quality of 38 The by-law does not address mineral and thermal water. 37

38 surface and ground water (see Annex 3). These regulations are included in the national regulations of the member states of the EU. Institute of Public Health Zajecar The IPH Zajecar is the approved laboratory for surface water monitoring in Bor and the surrounding areas. It is responsible for analysing surface water in the region of the City Bor. However, currently only 13 people at the IPH are related to the environmental monitoring. The technicians are trained to perform sampling and analysis. The laboratory has a lack of equipment and also manpower to carry out all the necessary analysis for surface water according to FRY standards (for further description of Institute of Public Health Zajecar capacities, see chapters above) Conclusions According to all information available to the monitoring mission, including the analysis of the IPH Belgrade (see Annex 1) Bor river is highly contaminated surface water. The river is contaminated with organic material, which is discharged from the municipal wastewater. As a result of the mining activities, the ph level is abnormal and the river is contaminated with iron, copper and zinc (including arsenic). These concentrations are so high, that also the Timok river as well as other downstream water courses are influenced by the contamination levels. Reportedly, monitoring of surface waters up-stream of Bor is done regularly (4 times a year) at 8 measuring spots and down-stream from Bor Municipality at 5 spots. The ongoing activities can serve as central input when improving the monitoring of surface waters in Bor area. With regards to the capacities of the competent institutes and laboratories in the area, please see conclusions above (in Chapter 3). 38

39 3.4 Wastewater monitoring Mission findings Wastewater disposal in the Bor area is a major problem. Wastewaters from copper processing generally contain high concentrations of metals and are highly acidic. The town of Bor also generates municipal wastewaters and trade effluents from smaller local industries. The following main water pollution sources have been identified in Bor 39 : DDDS Topionice I rafinacije bakra - Copper smelting and refining factories (no treatment) Industrijske otpadne voda, broj - Industrial wastewaters (no treatment) Sanitarne otpadne vode, broj Sanitary/domestic wastewaters (no treatment) RTB Bor DD u svojini Rudnici bakra I nemetala RTB Copper & non-metal mines (no treatment) SIP Bakar Bor - Copper wire factory (no treatment) Grafomed mesovito preduzece za vrsenje graficke delatnosti - Graphics factory (no treatment) NIS Jugopetrol BG, RO - petrol depot (no treatment) JKP Vodovod I kanalizacija water and sewerage company /waterworks Sanitarna otpadna voda banjskog spa area sanitary wastewater/sewerage (treated) Sanitarna otpadna voda Bor faza sanitary wastewater, domestic Bor 1 & 2 (treated) Sanitarna otpadna voda iz naselja borskog jezera sanitary wastewater from Bor lake area (treated) Sanitarna otpadna voda Bor pre uliva u kanalizaciju sanitary wastewater from Bor area, before discharge into sewerage (no treatment) Industrijska otpadna voda pre uliva u kanalizaciju industrial before sewage (no treatment) Zastava promet Kragujevac filijala Bor car production (no treatment) Trayal Korporacija stanica za proizvodnju eksploziva Slari u Boru explosives factory (no treatment) DDO konfekcija Bor textile factory (no treatment) RTB Bor RO Fabrika poliester folija polyester factory (no treatment) DD Centroistok Bor (treated) DD Fabrika ventila za pneumatike Bor valve/ventilation and pneumatics manufacture (treated) Klanica Polet Bor slaughter house (no treatment) Zdravstveni centar Bor medical centre / hospital (no treatment) Reportedly, wastewater discharges from the sulphuric acid plant amount to some 200 m3 per day (including acid waste, slurry and toxic metals) and from the tank house plant m3 per day (including solids and a variety of toxic metals). The amount of mine waters, containing copper is approximately m3/hour 40. Consequently the ph, 39 Scottish Environment Group, UK Government Taskforce For Yugoslavia: Water And Wastewater Facilities, Municipality of Bor, February 2001 and IPH Zajecar. 40 The levels exceed for e.g., normal UK sewer discharge consent limits and similar discharges directly to the inland environment would result in the process being closed. (ref Assessment of Copper Smelter; 39

40 copper and arsenic concentrations in the final effluent (from the acid plant and tank house) probably surpasses international maximum allowed concentrations. With regards to municipal effluent discharge volumes from Bor town, no data was available for the monitoring mission. Map 5. Main release points for wastewaters Source: Bor: Environmental Assessment. IPH Belgrade Because the original Bor river has been diverted, there is no possibility of the copper processing or municipal wastewaters being naturally diluted in the part of the river Copper Mine; Landfill Site & Thermal Power Plant, Bor, Yugoslavia IWMG report December 2000). Report also contains analytical data for discharges. 40

41 immediately downstream of the town. Consequently, banks of the affected rivers are sterile and it is unlikely there is any water-based life. There is possibly some dilution downstream towards the Danube, which may reduce the effects of the pollution. Federal and Republican regulations provide the legal framework for water protection from pollutants, preventive measures to be undertaken and penal measures (see Annex 3). Every factory/plant that discharges waste water from its installations is required to systematically control the quality of these waters, keep a record of the quantity and research their effect on recipients as well as to purify them to allowed pollutant concentration before discharging them into river streams. Public utility firms and legal entities that discharge waste water into water streams are obliged, by the Law, to monitor the pollution state of waste waters, that is, to control the emission at points of discharge from industrial plants. For comparison, General European Union policy regarding wastewater discharges is appended (see Annexes 5 and 3). Only institutions and laboratories authorized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management may perform the tests. The tests should be carried out in accordance with the Regulations on the Minimum Number of Waste Water Quality Tests and Regulations on Limiting Emission Values, methods, measuring period and data logging. Despite the significant wastewater streams, the enforcement of the existing legislation as well as the enforcement capacities have so far been non-sufficient. Picture 4. Tailings pond (May 2002) 41

42 There is an effluent treatment plant to treat the copper processing wastewaters. The plant includes acid neutralisation and precipitation units. However, the plant is in a state of disrepair and it is unlikely to be brought back on line in the foreseeable future. Because the plant is out of action, acid and metals laden effluents are discharged directly into Bor river. There was found to be no treatment of municipal wastewaters from Bor. Municipal wastewaters and associated sewage discharge directly into Bor river downstream from the copper processing wastewaters. In the outlying areas some small effluent plants have been installed to treat individual wastewater sources for e.g., from hotels. The designs are generally of the Biodisc type 41. Picture 5. Bor River valley (May 2002) The Krivelj river is contaminated from the Krivelj copper mine operations. The original Bor river has been diverted into the Krivelj before entering the collector beneath the tailing lagoon and this may allow some natural dilution. It is clear that Bor river, before it joins the Timok, consists almost entirely of effluent from the Bor copper processing plant, Bor town, Krivelj mine and from a sand-washing plant which also has no treatment facilities. There is likely to be some residual dilution from the original Bor river, Krivelj 41 Biodiscs (also called rotary biological contactors RBC s) are units, which hold a series of discs with a high surface area. The discs are mounted on a horizontal shaft, which is driven slowly by a motor. The discs are half submerged in the effluent to be treated and half exposed to air. As the discs turn, the area exposed to air allows the transfer of oxygen to the naturally formed biofilm for respiration. The biofilm biologically breaks down the effluent when submerged. Biodiscs are especially suitable for small effluent sources e.g. hotels. 42

43 river and tributaries. There is currently little information available on other individual sources of effluent discharges in the area. The problem is clearly a low priority, due partly to the economic situation. The IPH Zajecar is the approved laboratory for wastewater monitoring in Bor and the surrounding areas. The facility was visited on May 16 th A staff of thirteen people is involved in environmental sampling and analysis. Available equipment includes relatively old but serviceable Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometers, UV, Visible and Infra Red Spectrophotometers. Gas Chromatography with FID and ECD is installed but is currently out of action. Basic wet chemistry equipment is available. The laboratory was found to be ill equipped and manned to carry out compliance monitoring e.g. according to UK practices. In order for an approved regulatory authority to carry out compliance monitoring a quality system must be implemented. It would be very difficult to enforce environmental legislation and assess trends without the validated, traceable and audited data that a properly operated quality system would provide. However, there is some limited manpower and analytical capacity available at the laboratory to carry out small projects, for example short characterisation surveys of known industrial effluent outfalls. According to mission findings, there appears to be no significant wastewater monitoring being carried out. The IPH Belgrade has carried out some analysis of pollution in watercourses around the area but no individual wastewater streams have been analysed Conclusions There is no structured system for wastewater monitoring in Bor. Consequently it is unlikely that the relevant FRY regulations are complied with in terms of monitoring and control. Data from several projects has indicated clear problems in this area but according to the monitoring mission, information concerning actual discharges is sparse. Problems with metals and acid in discharges from industrial processes has been indicated in the IPH (Belgrade) Bor Environmental Assessment as well as in previous international assessments 42, but there is no validated flow data and the available chemical analysis data is for spot samples only. Based on the existing information e.g. important load calculations for effluent treatment design are not possible. Analysis of spot samples of wastewater from the smelter complex discharging into the Bor in December 2000 reported a ph of 2.83, copper 44 mg/l. Total metal (not including arsenic and iron) discharge concentration was 55 mg/l 43. For comparison, a typical UK discharge consent to 42 E.g. Assessment of Copper Smelter; Copper Mine; Landfill Site & Thermal Power Plant. Bor, Yugoslavia. IWMG December 2000, and Economic, Environmental & Public Health Assessment, Bor Municipality, Yugoslavia. IWMG March Assessment of Copper Smelter; Copper Mine; Landfill Site & Thermal Power Plant. Bor, Yugoslavia. IWMG December

44 a sewer (i.e. subject to further treatment before discharge to a controlled water) would be up to 20 mg/l total metals and a ph range of 6-9. There is no data for the other wastewater discharges in the area, for example municipal wastewaters and effluents from individual sources (e.g. hotels), which are likely to be affecting sensitive waters. Such systems for treating municipal type effluents (mainly biodisc ) are described in the Local Municipal Assembly Bor Group report 44. All the reported systems are either unserviceable or in need of maintenance and repair. No discharge analysis data was made available to the monitoring mission. As highlighted above, load and characterisation data necessary for effluent treatment plant design is not available. 3.5 Soil Monitoring Mission findings With regards to soil (and irrigation water), the existing legislative framework in FRY is rather limited. It provides for maximum allowed concentrations of dangerous and harmful substances that can damage or change the productive capability of agricultural soil and the quality of water for irrigation, that originates from industries, sewage dump overflow, overuse of mineral fertilizers and plant protection preparations. Dangerous substances according to this manual are: Cd, Pd, Hg, Ni and F and harmful: Cu, Zn and B. Also for Simazin and Atrazin there are limitations on the concentrations in the soil 45. In the Bor area soil has been degraded by emissions of sulfur dioxide, emissions of ash and soot from metallurgic facilities, pollution of water and air, the dump sites as well as through a bad agricultural use. The contamination is caused by heavy metals, PCBs, acid rains and several other dangerous substances. The mining activities in the Bor area destroy a lot of agricultural land, because of the open pit mining. The wastewater from the copper processing affects the banks of the rivers. In particular, at the conjunction of the Bor and the Timok rivers wide land areas have become unsuitable for any agricultural use, as they are covered by solid material and deposited mine tailings. At affected areas trees and bushes grow for only a short time, due to their roots touching the acid soil layers. According to some estimations approximately ha of fertile soil in the Bor Municipality and some ha in the lower areas of the Bor and Timok rivers (including the villages of Ostrelj, Slatina, Donja Bela, Reka, Rgotina and Vrazogrnac) are affected by the mining activities. The Agricultural and Technological Research Centre Zajecar has undertaken research concerning potential rehabilitation and reuse of this area. While visiting the Centre (16 th 44 Bor, May Municipal Assembly Bor 45 Regulation manual on Allowed Concentrations of Dangerous and Harmful Substances in Soil and Water Irrigation and Methods of their Examination (Sl. gl. R.S. 23/94). For maximum allowed concentrations, see Annex 1, table A

45 May 2002) the monitoring mission was presented with research results dealing with the soil at the conjunction of the Bor river with the Timok river. According the Centre the soil in this area has a ph value of 2 and plants cannot grow without treatment within an area of approximately 30 ha. Different methods to upgrade the soil were demonstrated. With the upgrading of the soil, plants could grow again, but re-treatment of the soil would be necessary every year. According to the representatives of the Centre, the levels of arsenic and copper in the soil are high, but could be removed by plants. However, it is important to note that in addition to the abnormal ph level of the soil, this area is also contaminated with heavy metals. Consequently, there is a risk that food grown in this area cannot be used for longer times (even if acid of the soil is removed), because of the plants capacity to incorporate the heavy metals. According to the IPH in Belgrade a monitoring of the state of pollution of the soil and agricultural plants has not been done in the Bor Municipality and sporadic laboratory analysis performed in recent years have mostly covered a limited number of parameters. The sampling undertaken by IPH Belgrade revealed in several locations higher that MAC levels of heavy metals (see Annex 1). The limited data, which were measured by IPH Belgrade of river sediments, show no significance that measures have to be done to reduce the heavy metals, if German regulations are used. However, further investigations with regards to the leaching procedures should be undertaken to define the mobility of the heavy metals. The heavy metal concentrations of soil depend also on the using of the ground. The PAH-concentrations measured in the soil from Vrazogrnac are extremely high and further investigations should be made, to make sure that this data is reflecting the concentrations of PAH in the area of Vrazogrnac and not only one spot. The sediments measured by IPH Belgrade are highly contaminated with copper and arsenic, so that the river banks should not be play grounds for children, especially because of the high concentration of arsenic. In the EU there is only one law available, which deals with sewage sludge used in agriculture 46. Some of the EU member countries have proceeded at different paces to further up-grade their legislation concerning soil protection. For e.g., in the Netherlands and Germany different kinds of limits have been developed for soil, specifying separate limits with regards to use for housing, industry or agriculture areas. 46 Council Directive 86/278/EEC on the protection of the environment, and in particular of the soil, when sewage sludge is used in agriculture. See also Annex 2. 45

46 Agricultural and Technological Research Centre Zajecar The Agricultural and Technological Research Centre Zajecar was visit on 16 th May The Centre has a staff of 123 employees with main units concentrating on research and plant production, working in close cooperation with the Institute of Public Health Zajecar. Following equipment is available at the Agricultural and Technological Research Centre laboratory: Spectrophotometer (FP 102, Spectrolab) Kolorimeter Spectrophotometer (PU 8600, Pye Unicam) ph-meter Kjeldahl-Apparatus (Kjeltec-System) Grinding-System Flame-Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (SP 9, Pye Unicam) GC with FID/ECD In the laboratory there are written procedures especially for soil extractions. The Centre has the equipment and the technology to take and analyse soil samples according to the different use of the soil. The analysis can be done for heavy metals and for other basic parameters. However, the laboratory has limited capacity to do a comprehensive survey of the contamination of the soil in the Bor area. There is also no quality assurance system available, which would comply with International Standards like ISO Institute of Public Health Zajecar The IPH in Zajecar also has the capacity to take and analyse soil samples according to the different use of the soil (including measuring particles and their content of heavy metals). However, organic parameters are not measurable due to the lack of appropriate equipment and there is currently no experience in analysing soil especially for organic parameters. For further description of IPH Zajecar capacities, see also previous chapters Conclusions Within the area of Bor soil has been primarily degraded by emissions from the industrial activities, in particular mining activities, as well as through improper waste management and bad agricultural use. In addition to the abnormal ph level of the soil, areas contaminated with heavy metals can be identified. The monitoring of the state of pollution of the soil, sediments and agricultural plants has not been undertaken in a systematic and standardized manner and the sporadic laboratory analyses performed in recent years have mostly covered a limited number of parameters. 46

47 The Agricultural and Technological Research Centre has the equipment and the technology to analyse soil samples for heavy metals and for other basic parameters. However, the laboratory has limited capacity to do a comprehensive survey of the contamination of the soil in the Bor area. The IPH in Zajecar has also the capacity to take and analyse soil samples according to the different use of the soil. However, organic parameters are not measurable due to the lack of appropriate equipment and there is currently no experience in analysing soil especially for organic parameters. 3.6 Waste materials monitoring Mission findings The national strategy for waste management has set objectives in the fields of waste reduction (incl. separation at source and recycling), primary resource protection as well as environmental protection 47. In general, the areas of municipal waste, industrial waste and hazardous waste have been identified as the areas to work within. However, the implementation of the strategy as well as the enforcement of the existing legislation is non-sufficient 48. According to mission findings, the issue of safe and environmentally friendly waste disposal has been a low priority in the Bor area. To some extent the problems with handling waste materials are eclipsed by other more pressing environmental issues. The municipal landfill site is situated close to the town on high ground and is almost permanently on fire. Some fires are apparently started deliberately in order to recover valuable material, for example copper from copper cable. It is likely that emissions from the burning are affecting negatively local air quality. During the mission, no data was presented on waste disposal in the Bor and Zajecar area but it is anticipated that substantial quantities of controlled waste arise from processes at Bor and the town municipal waste 49. There is no information on special waste quantities or disposal routes. The only data available presented to the mission was 1996 data on total waste deposited in the Nis region, which indicated tonnes, were landfilled 50. According to that data, domestic waste accounted for tonnes, company waste tonnes, waste from institutions tonnes and from public spaces tonnes. 47 FR Yugoslavia Report, February Waste management is regulated by the several regulations including Regulations on Criteria for Selecting Locations and Dumps for Waste Material (Sl. gl. RS, No 54/92), Regulations on Modes of treating waste designated as having the properties of dangerous materials (Sl.gl. RS, No 12/95). 49 Controlled Waste is defined in the 1991 EU Framework Directive on waste (91/156/EEC) as any substance or object in the categories listed below which the holder discards or intends or is required to discard. 50 Waste Management Assessment of the Landfill Sites in Yugoslavia. International Waste Management Group Report December 2000 (UK Government Task Force For Yugoslavia) 47

48 However, based on the mission findings it can be concluded that landfill sites in the area have been sited with little consideration for environmental and public health impact 51. The sites suffer from lack of investment and have been operated without access to best practice and technology. There is no landfill gas or leachate monitoring programme ongoing and in general it seems that relevant rules and regulations are not adhered to 52. There is currently no capacity for the analysis of waste materials in the Bor area. Analysis capacity at the IPH Zajecar laboratories, which would be the approved facility for such analysis, is fully committed in other areas. There was no data produced during the field mission nor was any waste material data present in any of the reports provided to the mission. It is therefore extremely unlikely that the scale and categories of waste disposal in the area are accurately known. There is probably an as yet undefined serious problem with waste materials and disposal routes in the area Conclusions There is no structured and validated programme for the monitoring of solid, urban and hazardous waste materials in the Bor area. Consequently it is unlikely that the relevant FRY regulations relating to monitoring wastes are being applied. Picture 6. Bor Landfill site (May 2002) Virtually no information on categorization and volumes of waste was made available to the monitoring mission. 51 See e.g. Maps 3 and 5 for location of landfill. 52 Two FRY regulations apply to waste disposal - Law on waste handling (Official Gazette RS No 26/96) and Regulation on hazardous waste handling (Official Gazette RS No 12/95). 53 For comparison, see Annex 4, with General European Union Policy On Waste Disposal 48

49 4. Recommendations It is important to note that for any improvements in the monitoring capacities, the systematic technical component must be accompanied by improvements in the human capacities. In addition, it is crucial that the local stakeholders and relevant national authorities are committed to cooperating in a transparent manner, allowing all existing information to be shared and be optimally used by the decisions makers. A structured information and response system, which can be externally audited, will allow actions to be taken immediately in the event of exceeding of limits. Taking into account the financial constraints, this would also facilitate cost-efficient share of responsibilities and tasks between the different competent institutions. Parallel to this process, it is evident that improvements in the existing legislative framework should be made and, in particular, capacities to monitor and enforce the legislation/regulations should be strengthened. The step-wise improvements should keep this larger framework in mind, in order to improve the environmental and health monitoring capacities in Bor area in a sustainable manner. Following is a number of recommendations based on the findings during the mission. A priority list is given in the end of this section. Air monitoring and meteorological data The 24-hour sulphur dioxide measurements should be continued with additional quality control of data. Due to extensive use of coal in the areas away from Bor, the IPH Zajecar 8 port sampler smoke programme should be maintained. The IPH Zajecar monitoring program for smoke and sulphur dioxide should be maintained since the data may be used strategically and the smoke measurements are more important due to the more extensive use of coal outside the Bor area. Reducing the settle plate programme could release more resources for targeted atmospheric monitoring. In the short term it is essential that suitable atmospheric monitoring equipment is acquired to carry out sampling and analysis to address the issues in the Bor area in a reliable and internationally recognized fashion. The acquisition of such equipment should include good logistical support, training and especially quality control. Data interpretation facilities and reporting structure, together with the clearly defined objectives should be an essential part of such a program, in order to ensure efficient use of the data. 49

50 Suitable ambient air monitoring equipment should have the following capabilities: o Measurement of sulphur dioxide continuously 10-minute reference period for short-term exposure. Data handling to recalculate data for 24 hour and annual averages. o Measurement of airborne particulate matter as PM10. Data processing for 24 hour and annual mean concentrations. TEOM, Beta Attenuation (BAM) and light transmission techniques should be available o Measurement of metallic elements, especially arsenic. There is no specific sampling method but normally M Type samplers are used in the UK. Sampling should be designed to provide weekly average data. There is a possibility of using the current 8 port sampler filters but this option should be reviewed in more detail to ensure that data is compatible with International standards. The use of filters from PM10 instrumentation would be more suitable. Analysis of samples may be carried out using ISO 9855:1993 (acid digest/atomic absorption with hydride generation as required). o Measurement of wind speed and direction. A meteorological data system is normally easily added to the sampling systems detailed above. o The above components could be part of an integral mobile system allowing measurements to be carried out in different locations including remote control sites. The system should allow telemetry download, rapid data interpretation and necessary action, especially in the case of sulphur dioxide. Most systems of this sophistication would allow transmission to public electronic message board. In the medium term a statistical review of bronchial problems, cancer and hospital admissions data would be appropriate, provided suitable comparisons can be made with other regions of FRY. Also in the medium term, consideration should be given to the installation of emissions monitoring equipment particularly for sulphur dioxide, in the stacks at The Mining & Smelter Complex. In the longer term there is a clear requirement for the competent national authority to effectively assist FRY industry and utilities in the application of environmental management and controls, and also monitor the application and enforcement of environmental legislation. 50

51 Water monitoring Drinking water In general the drinking water monitoring should be improved in order to verify compliance with the FRY legislation. In particular: o All parameters of the basic program according to the FRY law should be monitored regularly. o The periodic parameters mentioned in the FRY drinking water legislation should be monitored two times a year. In order to identify and clarify any long-term changes and/or negative effect to the drinking water source, the water from the drinking water sources; springs, fountains and wells should be analysed four (4) times a year, including the dry and wet season. The analyse program should include: o The basic parameters from the V Program, heavy metals and trihalomethanes. o The two (2) samples taken during the dry and wet season should also include pesticides and other relevant, dangerous substances, which are supposed to be used in this area by industry or agriculture. (see Annex 1) The water in each temporary drinking water reservoir should be analysed once a week. The analyse program should include: o The basic parameters from the FRY-Regulation including trihalomethanes and microbiological indicators. The drinking water quality in the pipeline network should be checked once a week for the following parameters: o The basic parameters from the FRY-Regulation including trihalomethanes and microbiological indicators. ph level, conductivity, temperature and residual chlorine should be measured onsite during sampling. The location of sampling should be changed from the existing 10 fixed locations to 10 random locations in the pipeline network. The drinking water quality in dismantled or dead end parts of the pipeline network should be monitored once a month. 51

52 During times when the drinking water supply is operating less than 24hours/day the bacteriological tests should be increased. Groundwater The ongoing random monitoring of the groundwater in the down stream direction from the Bor area should be reviewed and systemised. The monitoring programme should include existing wells used for drinking water and/or irrigation and include the following program: o Basic parameters, which are measured at the moment, and in addition the measuring of heavy metals and organic parameters. o Measuring of oxygen, ph and conductivity on-site during sampling. Surface water monitoring The findings obtained during the mission clearly identify the surface water system in the down stream direction from the Bor area to be highly effected by different contaminants from the activities in the Bor area. Based on these findings the following recommendations should be implemented: The ongoing monitoring programme for surface water should continue, but modified to include: o 8-10 sampling locations. Making use of the on-going monitoring activities up-stream, the integrated programme should include 1 or 2 samples upstream from the Bor area in order to create a solid base-line. o Basic parameters, which are measured at the moment, and also measuring of heavy metals, organic parameters, temperature and flow rate in addition. o The surface water monitoring system should be carried out four (4) times a year, including the dry and wet season, and combined with a wastewater monitoring system. Wastewater monitoring In order to get a more adequate picture of the surface water quality and potential contamination sources to the river system in the Bor area, including the effect from the discharging of wastewater into the system, the following steps are recommended: An inventory should be made of all wastewaters in Bor area, which are discharged in the different rivers. After identification of all wastewater discharges the quality and quantity of this wastewater should be measured and included in the inventory. This inventory is a necessary step in protecting rivers and upgrading the water quality in the Bor area. 52

53 The wastewater monitoring should be in compliance with the FRY legislation. The monitoring should include four (4) sampling rounds a year, and be combined with the recommended surface water monitoring system. It is important to note that a great deal of investigative groundwork is required to establish wastewater emissions and characteristics in the area. This is a long-term project but should be started as a matter of urgency. Soil monitoring In order to create a base-line regarding the impact to the soil quality in the Bor area affected especially by the activities at The Mining & Smelter Complex in Bor, the following recommendations should be implemented: The starting point for the soil-monitoring program should be the metrological data, in order to verify the impact from wind blown contaminants, especially heavy metals and acid rain. This will include assessment of locations which may contribute towards contaminated land for e.g., storage or handling of environmental sensitive material (oil depots, raw material storage, etc) as well as areas (particularly agricultural land) which may be affected by atmospheric fallout from the smelter and other industrial operations in the area. Special attention should be given to the sediments along the river Bor and at the conjunction of the rivers Bor and Krjvelskj due to the fact that the adjoining areas are intensively used for agricultural. Besides the basic parameters such as ph, moisture, total organic materials, mineral oil, sulphur hydrocarbons, inorganic and organic nitrogen and sulphate, the monitoring program should include heavy metals, PCB, PAH s and biological parameters especially in the sediments. However the final elements recommended to be included in the monitoring programme will depend on the assessment of the Starting point, see above, since contaminants may be site specific. The monitoring of soil is a long-term project but should be started as soon as possible to identify the impact on soil of mining, industry and agricultural use. There should also be an inventory of the different contaminated areas to outline priorities for urgent remediation needs. 53

54 Waste materials monitoring Taking into account the current economic situation it is probable that enforcement of a regulated system is difficult in the short-term. However, it is recommended that. A baseline survey of the waste input into the Bor landfill site and other landfills in the area should be carried out in order to define, quantify and characterize the types of waste deposited. Due to lack of local capacity in this sector and the requirement of extensive chemical analysis capabilities, consideration should be given to expansion of local laboratory manpower resources and/or for the subcontracting of complex analysis. Recommendation of priority Based on the risks to the human health in the Bor area combined with the findings during the mission and the above list of recommendations, the following priority list is recommended regarding the implementation of the recommendations: 1. Improvements of the 24-hour monitoring capacity including particulate (PM 10 ), wind speed/direction and arsenic as well as sulphur dioxide. This includes procurement of additional equipment and the improvement of quality control and human capacity. 2. None of the laboratories visited in the Bor area during the monitoring mission are capable of carrying out the recommended monitoring systems on their own with respect to equipment, human capacities and quality assurance systems. In order to improve the overall recommended monitoring system in the most cost-efficient way the following short-term steps should be taken: A joint force/venture between relevant laboratories in order to fulfil the recommended monitoring programme for each sub-program. Procurement of Field-Test equipment in order to perform on-site measurements of: ph, temperature, oxygen, conductivity and residual chlorine. Training on the job of relevant personnel to increase the human capacity to be in line with the recommendations. The programme should include a system of round robin tests starting with the basic parameters in order to improve the analytical work and decrease the errors in the different laboratories. Data interpretation facilities and reporting structure, together with the clearly defined objectives should be an essential part of such a program, in order to ensure efficient use of the data. 54

55 Development and implementation of relevant Quality Assurance complying with International standards according to the recommendations. 3. Improve the drinking water monitoring programme to comply with the FRY- and EUregulations. 4. Establish a surface water monitoring programme. This programme should be combined with a monitoring programme for wastewater discharged into the system. The monitoring programme should comply with the FRY- and EU-regulations. 5. Establish a groundwater-monitoring programme. 6. Establish a soil-monitoring programme. 55

56 5. References Air Quality Guidelines for Europe. WHO (Second edition) Assessment of Copper Smelter; Copper Mine; Landfill Site & Thermal Power Plant. Bor, Yugoslavia. IWMG December Bor: Environmental Assessment, IPH Belgrade Institute of Public Health of Belgrade, May Bor, May Municipal Assembly Bor. REPORT, Local Municipal Assembly Bor Group for the support to UNEP/UNOPS monitoring mission identification of pollution sources and consequences and possible permanent balanced development and ecosystem. Chemical Safety of Drinking Water: Identifying Priorities Using Limited Information, WHO (Draft edition) (2001) Chemical Analyses Of Ground and Surface Water, Soil, Plants, River Sediment And Suspended Particles In Ambient Air in The Bor Area. Institute Of Public Health, Belgrade. 23 May Copper Institute, Bor. Monthly report for March 2002 Economic, Environmental & Public Health Assessment, Bor Municipality, Yugoslavia. IWMG February/March FR Yugoslavia Report, February The consequences of NATO bombing for the environment in FR Yugoslavia. Federal Ministry for Development, Science and the Environment. Scottish Environment Group, UK Government Taskforce For Yugoslavia: Water And Wastewater Facilities, Municipality of Bor, February 2001 Waste Management Assessment of the Landfill Sites in Yugoslavia. International Waste Management Group Report December 2000 (UK Government Task Force For Yugoslavia) 56

57 Annex 1 Sampling results and locations UNEP/UNOPS clean-up programme contracted Institute of Public Health - Belgrade (IPHB), FRY competent authority for waste characterization, to undertake sampling and analysis of ground water, soil, plants, river sediment, surface water and suspended particles in ambient air. The samples were analyzed in the IPHB Laboratory. Ground Water Map A1.1: Sampling locations for groundwater 57

58 Table A1.1 Sampling spots of ground water from the Bor ( and ) Sample of Ground water Time of sampling Sampling spots ID Number KRIVELJSKA BANJICA Spring SURDUP Spring ZLOT- GAURA MIKA Spring HAJDUČKA ČESMA BOR Public drinking fountain TRNAVAC -Well ( ) SLATINA -Well Underground Waters The program of systematic monitoring of quality of drinking water in the Bor area, including sources used by the Bor Waterworks, has been based on examination of a limited number of parameters (smell, temperature, colour, turbidity, ph value, demand for potassium-permanganate, evaporation residue, electro conductibility, ammonium, nitrites, nitrates, chlorides, iron and manganese). Sources of water capture of the Bor Waterworks Kriveljska banjica, Zlot and Surdup are, being Karst water springs in their nature, very vulnerable and susceptible to the influence of atmospheric fallout penetration. IPHB took water samples from those locations, with the aim of laboratory examinatins (according to the comprehensive, so-called»v Program«). During frequent summer shortages of drinking water, citizens of Bor obtain water from public drinking fountains. Among them, most frequently used is the Hadučka česma fountain. Settlements of Slatina and Trnavac lie in the alluvial plane of much polluted Bor River. Since it is hydrologically connected to underground waters, samples from two wells that serve as a source of drinking water (Trnavac) and for watering of agricultural areas (Slatina) were taken. 58

59 Table A1.2 Results of Analysis of ground water samples (springs) from the Bor (»V program«- Yugoslav standard for potable water) Parameters / Sample ID Number Temperature ( C) Colour-platinum cobalt method <5 <5 <5 Odour without without without Turbidity NTU ph Oxidability (mg/l) KMnO Residue 105 C Conductivity (µs/cm) Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l) O Saturation % O Hydrogen sulfide (mg/l) H 2 S without without without Carbon dioxide (mg/l) CO Cyanide (mg/l) CN - <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 Chlorine (residual) (mg/l) Cl 2 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 p-alcalinity ml 0,1N HCl/L m-alcalinity ml 0,1N HCl/L Hardness total dh Hardness carbonat dh Hardness noncarbonat dh Carbonat (mg/l) CO Bicarbonat (mg/l) HCO Ammonia (mg/l) NH 4 <0.05 <0.05 < Nitrite (mg/l) NO 2 <0.006 <0.006 < Nitrate (mg/l) NO Chloride (mg/l) Cl Sulfate (mg/l) SO Ortho phosphate( mg/l) PO4 3- <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 Fluoride (mg/l) F Surfactant,anionic MBAS (mg/l) <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 Phenols index (mg/l) UV absorpcion 254nm 1/m TOC (mg/l) Total Oil and grease (IR) (mg/l) <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 Mineral Oil and grease (IR) (mg/l) <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 Metals (mg/l) method AAS Aluminium (mg/l) Al Arsenic (mg/l) As <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 Copper (mg/l)cu <0.005 <0.005 Zinc (mg/l) Zn <0.010 Iron (total) (mg/l) Fe <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 Chromium (total) (mg/l) Cr <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 Cadmium (mg/l) Cd <0.002 <0.002 <

60 Calcium (mg/l) Ca Potassium (mg/l) K Magnesium (mg/l) Mg Manganese (mg/l) Mn <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 Sodium (mg/l) Na Nickel (mg/l) Ni <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 Lead (mg/l) Pb <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 Mercury (mg/l) Hg < < < Pesticide (µg/l) method GC/MSD Total pesticide (µg/l) <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Alachlor <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Aldrin/Dieldrin <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Atrazin <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Bentazon <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 DDT <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 2,4-D <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Hexsa chlor benzene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Heptachlor/Heptachlorepoxid <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Chlorotoluron <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Isoproturon <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Carbofuran <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Lindan <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 MCPA <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Metolachlor <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Molinat <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Pendimentalin <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Penta chlor phenol <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Permetrin <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Piridat <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Simazin <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Trifluralin <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Chlorphenoxy herbicides different from 2,3-D and <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 MCPA 2,4-D Dichlorprop <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 PAH ( µg/l) method GC/MSD Total PAH <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Fluoranthene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Benzo 3,4 fluoranthene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Benzo 11,12 fluoranthene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Benzo 1,12- perilene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Indeno (1,2,3 cd) pyrene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Benzo (a) pyrene <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 PCB (µg /L) method GC/MSD PCB total(µg /L) <0.1 <0.1 < chlorbiphenyl <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 2,3- dichlorbiphenyl <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 2,4,5-treechlorbiphenyl <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 2,2,4,4- tetrachlorbiphenyl <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 60

61 2,2,3,4,6- pentachlorbiphenyl <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 2,2,4,4,5,6-hexachlorbiphenyl <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 2,2,3,3,4,4,6-heptachlorbiphenyl <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 2,2,3,3,5,5,6,6-oktachlorbiphenyl <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 By products of desinfection (µg/l) method GC/ECD Dibromacetonitrile <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Dichloracetonitrile <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Trichloracetonitrile <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 THM (µg/l) method GC/ECD Potential of THM* Chloroform Dichlorbrommethane Dibromchlormethane Bromoform <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Chlor alkanes (µg/l) method GC/ECD 1,1 dichlorethane <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 1,2 dichlorethane <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Dichlormethane ,1,1 trichlorethane <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Carbon tetrachloride < <0.1 Chlor ethenes (µg/l) method GC/ECD 1,1 dichlorethene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 1,2 dichlorethene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Trichlorethene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Tetrachlorethene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Vinilchloride <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Chlor benzene (µg/l) method GC/ECD 1,2-dichlorbenzene <1 <1 <1 1,3- dichlorbenzene <1 <1 <1 1,4- dichlorbenzene <1 <1 <1 Volatility aromatic hydrocarbons (µg/l) method GC/FID Benzene <1 <1 <1 Ethylbenzene <1 <1 <1 Xylene <1 <1 <1 Styrene <1 <1 <1 Toluene <1 <1 <1 * The Potential of THM is measured after reaction with chlorine in the Laboratory 61

62 Table A1.3 Results of Analysis of ground water samples (wells and Public drinking fountain) from the Bor area Parameters / Sample ID Number Temperature ( C) Colour-platinum cobalt method <5 <5 <5 Odour without without without Turbidity NTU ph Oxidability (mg/l) KMnO Residue 105 C Conductivity (µs/cm) Chlorine (residual) (mg/l) Cl 2 <0.05 <0.05 < Ammonia (mg/l) NH 4 <0.05 <0.05 < Nitrite (mg/l) NO 2 <0.006 <0.006 < Nitrate (mg/l) NO Chloride (mg/l) Cl Sulfate (mg/l) SO TOC (mg/l) Metals (mg/l) method AAS Arsenic (mg/l) As <0.002 < Copper (mg/l)cu < Zinc (mg/l) Zn Iron (total) (mg/l) Fe <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 Chromium (total) (mg/l) Cr <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 Cadmium (mg/l) Cd <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 Nickel (mg/l) Ni <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 Manganese (mg/l) Mn <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 Lead (mg/l) Pb <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 Mercury (mg/l) Hg < < < omethanes (THM ) (µg/l)- method GC/ECD Potential of THM* Chloroform Dichlorbrommethane Dibromchlormethane Bromofom By products of desinfection (µg/l) method GC/ECD Dibromacetonitrile <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Dichloracetonitrile <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Trichloracetonitrile <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Chlor alkanes (µg/l) method GC/ECD 1,1 dichlorethane <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 1,2 dichlorethane <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Dichlormethane ,1,1 trichlorethane <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Carbon tetrachloride <0.1 < Chlor ethenes (µg/l) method GC/ECD 1,1 dichlorethene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 62

63 1,2 dichlorethene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Trichlorethene <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Tetrachlorethene <0.1 < Chlor benzene (µg/l) method GC/ECD 1,2-dichlorbenzene <1 <1 <1 1,3- dichlorbenzene <1 <1 <1 1,4- dichlorbenzene <1 <1 <1 Volatility aromatic hydrocarbons ( µg/l) method GC/FID Benzene <1 <1 <1 Ethylbenzene <1 <1 <1 Xylene <1 <1 <1 Styrene <1 <1 <1 Toluene <1 <1 <1 * The Potential of THM is measured after reaction with chlorine in the Laboratory 63

64 Soil and plants Map A.1.2: Sampling locations for soil and plants 64