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Visualization of Impact of Chronic/Latent Chemical Hazard and Geo-Ecological Remediation

Environment / Energy (Global-scale environmental issues)

Republic of Zambia

Finished

Visualization of Impact of Chronic/Latent Chemical Hazard and Geo-Ecological Remediation

Solve the lead (Pb) contamination problem through a multi-disciplinary approach!

Principal Investigator

- Prof.
  ISHIZUKA Mayumi
  Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University
- Prof.
  Luke E Mumba
  Vice Chancellor, The University of Zambia

ODA Recipient Country

Republic of Zambia

Research Institutions in Japan

Hokkaido University

Research Institutions in Counterpart Country

University of Zambia

Adoption fiscal year

FY 2015

Research Period

5 Years

Overview of the Research Project

Optimizing contaminant removal methods, quantifying economic effects based on health risk assessments
In Zambia, where lead (Pb) contamination is a serious problem, we are working to elucidate the contamination mechanisms and risks posed to the ecosystem and humans. Then, by visualizing the economic losses involved, we aim to link this to the development of contamination prevention measures and environmental remediation technologies. In addition to conducting studies by remote sensing, characterizing soil and plants through surface studies, identifying lead contamination mechanisms in humans, visualizing health hazards and economic risks, and establishing environmental remediation technologies, we will also work to construct monitoring systems and foster the sustainable development of experts in the necessary fields through capacity building initiatives.

Contribution to the reduction of contamination through environmental remediation and assessment of health and economic risks!
Through these initiatives, we aim to achieve a reduction in lead levels in the younger generation who will shape Zambia’s future (particularly infants), and the adoption of new protocols for environmental remediation and health risk assessment in Zambia as part of national policy. In future, we hope these efforts will ultimately contribute to countermeasures against metal pollution—a major global hazard that is primarily centered in Africa.