Analysis of the process of environmental status determination based on the levels of heavy metals

Abstract This study examines the process of environmental status determination based on heavy metal contamination levels in the Styr River, Ukraine, within a zone of anthropogenic load. Background The assessment of environmental pollution by heavy metals is crucial for understanding anthropogenic impacts on aquatic ecosystems. This study focuses on analyzing the process of environmental status determination in the Styr River based on heavy metal concentration levels in the zone of anthropogenic load. Methods Systematic monitoring was conducted from 2018 to 2022, with surface water samples collected downstream of the Rivne Nuclear Power Plant. The concentrations of Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu, Ni, Mn, As, and Cr were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Pollution Coefficients (PC) were calculated to assess contamination levels according to Ukrainian environmental standards. Results The findings indicate that the overall water quality for domestic, drinking, and fishery purposes predominantly falls within Class I (not polluted), with occasional instances of slight pollution in fishery use. Network analysis revealed significant correlations between PC levels and heavy metal concentrations, with Cd being the primary contributor to pollution in domestic and drinking water, while Cu had the highest influence on fishery water pollution. Conclusions This study highlights the effectiveness of PC calculations and network analysis in assessing environmental status, demonstrating their applicability for pollution monitoring and risk assessment. The results support the need for continued monitoring and targeted mitigation measures to prevent heavy metal contamination in aquatic systems. Graphical Abstract