A recent study shows that heavy metal and pollutant content in the soil of Ulaanbaatar city is twice as high as standard levels. A new report states that 72 percent of soil in the city is polluted due to household waste.

The study was conducted by collecting samples from over 300 sites across a two year span throughout Ulaanbaatar city. Lead and chromium levels found in the soil samples were double the expected amount. Lead levels reached 1500 part per million (ppm) in city soil, in contrast to internationally acknowledged ‘safe’ levels of around 500 ppm. Natural lead levels in soil range from 50 ppm to 400 ppm.

Lead is a naturally-occurring element in soil but it can be harmful to humans when inhaled or ingested. Children especially are at risk. Lead poisoning can cause many health problems, but in particular it can cause neurological damage and development delays in children.

In adults, lead poisoning can cause:
·    poor muscle coordination
·    nerve damage to the sense organs and nerves controlling the body
·    increased blood pressure
·    hearing and vision impairment
·    reproductive problems
·    delayed fetal development.

In children, lead poisoning can cause:
·    damage to the brain and nervous system
·    behavioral problems
·    anemia
·    liver and kidney damage
·    hearing loss
·    hyperactivity
·    developmental delays
·    in extreme cases, death