A GIS and Multivariate Analysis Approach for Mapping Heavy Metals and Metalloids Contamination in Landfills: A Case Study from Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia

Talal Alharbi, Abdelbaset S. El-Sorogy () and Naji Rikan
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Talal Alharbi: Geology and Geophysics Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
Abdelbaset S. El-Sorogy: Geology and Geophysics Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
Naji Rikan: Geology and Geophysics Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia

Land, 2025, vol. 14, issue 8, 1-21

Abstract: This study employs Geographic Information Systems (GIS) combined with multivariate statistical techniques to evaluate soil contamination at two landfill sites in Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia. A total of 32 soil samples were collected and analyzed for heavy metals and metalloids (HMs) using a range of contamination indices and established soil quality standards. GIS mapping revealed that the Al-Kharj landfill 1 (Kj1) experienced a steady area expansion from 2014 through 2025, while landfill Kj2 expanded from 2014 until 2022, after which its area contracted following the construction of additional facilities. The average values of HMs observed were as follows: Fe (9909 mg/kg), Al (6709 mg/kg), Mn (155.9 mg/kg), Zn (36.4 mg/kg), Cr (24.1 mg/kg), V (22.2 mg/kg), Ni (19.5 mg/kg), Cu (8.20 mg/kg), Pb (7.91 mg/kg), Co (4.32 mg/kg), and As (2.29 mg/kg). Notably, Kj2 exhibited overall higher HM concentrations than Kj1, with particularly elevated levels of Cr, Ni, and Pb. Although most HMs remained within internationally accepted safety limits, only three samples (9.4% of the total) exceeded the WHO threshold for Pb (>30 mg/kg). An analysis using contamination and enrichment factors pointed to increased concentrations of Pb, Zn, and Cr, suggesting localized anthropogenic contributions. Additionally, all samples recorded an ecological risk index (Eri) below 40, and the levels of As, Cr, and Pb consistently stayed under their respective effects range-low (ERL) thresholds, indicating minimal contamination risks. The variations in HM contamination between the sites are likely attributable to differences in the sources of metal inputs and removal processes. These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and localized remediation strategies to ensure environmental safety and sustainable landfill management.

Keywords: arsenic; chromium; lead; principal component analysis; landfills (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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