Analyzing the effect of plant growth-promoting bacteria on the redistribution of potentially toxic elements in mine tailings

Abstract

Mine waste generates large amounts of potentially toxic elements (PTE), among which we find lead (Pb) and arsenic (As), and these cause significant damage to the environment and human health. The study of these PTE is normally carried out on the total amount of PTE present in the soil, but not on its distribution. The analysis of the redistribution of Pb and As with plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) indicates that they become less bioavailable, and that they are redistributed in the residual and organic matter fraction with significant differences (p < 0.05). These results show a stabilization of the PTE and therefore decreases the risk to the environment and human health.