IMPACT OF FERTILIZERS ON HEAVY METAL ACCUMULATION IN AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS

Abstract

The intensive use of mineral fertilizers in modern agriculture plays a crucial role in increasing crop productivity and ensuring food security. However, prolonged and excessive application of fertilizers may contribute to the accumulation of heavy metals in agricultural soils. Heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), arsenic (As), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) can enter soils through phosphate fertilizers, organic amendments, and irrigation practices. Their accumulation affects soil quality, plant growth, environmental sustainability, and human health. This study reviews the influence of agricultural fertilizers on heavy metal dynamics in soil-plant systems and discusses strategies for minimizing environmental risks while maintaining agricultural productivity.