ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION IN WASTEWATER IRRIGATED FARMS IN MEKNES, MOROCCO

Wastewater is widely used for irrigation in Meknes (Morocco). It helps the farmers to cope with drought issues. However, wastewater can contain many toxic chemicals, such as heavy metals, endangering human health. This study aims to assess heavy metal accumulations in wastewater irrigated farms and to identify potential risks to human health. Sampling was conducted from urban and peri-urban farms, collecting irrigation water, soil, and a variety of irrigated vegetables (beet, cardoon, fava bean, lettuce, radish, and zucchini). Ten heavy metals were analyzed: Al, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn. The analysis was performed using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy. For irrigation water, all the metals were within the WHO and FAO standards except for Pb and Cr. Heavy metal pollution index indicates an acceptable overall irrigation water quality. For soil, the enrichment factor and the contamination factor show significant anthropogenic enrichment of Cd and Pb. The Metal Pollution Index and Transfer Factor reveal an elevated aptitude of metals to accumulate in beets. The assessment of health risk, using the Target Hazard Quotient and the Hazard Index, indicates potential non-carcinogenic risks related to Al and Fe in beets and lettuce consumption.