Critical review of mercury polluted area in Indonesia

Abstract

Mercury (Hg), one of the most dangerous heavy metals, is released into the environment by anthropogenic activities such as artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), coal combustion, industrial processes, and waste incineration. Hg persists in nature and bioaccumulates in the food chain, posing health risks. This study provides an overview of total mercury (THg) levels in various environmental media (air, soil, water, and sediment), foodstuffs, and human hair in Indonesia. There was a total of 1,051 studies indexed in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, EBSCO, and local databases (Neliti, and OneSearch) that were considered for this review, and finally chosen 54 due to meeting all the inclusion criteria (conducted in Indonesia, available in English or Indonesian and not published in a predatory journal). The results of the studies conducted on Hg exposure, its origins, pathways, and effects in Indonesia were compiled and discussed. This study comprehensively organized the previously reported concentrations for air, soil, water, sediment, food, and hair. High mercury concentrations were reported in various ASGM areas and cement industrial areas in Indonesia, with many areas exceeding the Indonesian standards. The study highlights the urgency of addressing mercury contamination in Indonesia, especially in ASGM areas, and provides a reference for future research and policy development to reduce mercury exposure.

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