Evaluation of Babkhinsky sludge landfill impact on groundwater in Lake Baikal coastal zone

The main purpose of the work was to analyze the current state of pollutant distribution in the area of the Babkhinsky sludge storage landfill of the Baikal Pulp and Paper Mill. To solve the set problem the long-term data reflecting the chemical composition of natural and above-sludge waters during various periods of plant operation and after its closure were analyzed, followed by modeling and evaluation of the geological, structural and hydrogeological conditions of the area, technological features of engineering structures and wastewater composition, which together influenced the nature and extent of pollutants in the coastal area of Lake Baikal. As a result of the conducted analysis, it was concluded that the highest concentrations are demonstrated by the following indicators: lead, iron, arsenic, increased turbidity and color of water. The maximum pollution is concentrated within the area of map No. 14, as well as on the border area between the areas of maps No. 14 and 13 located located approximately 1.5 km from the water’s edge of Lake Baikal. This situation is due to the fact that during the closure of the Baikal Pulp and Paper Mill, in addition to Class IV and V hazard waste disposed of in the plant’s ash disposal site, highly toxic green liquor was discharged into the area shown on map no. 14. Since this area is dominated by low-permeability rocks, the groundwater composition stabilized and its recovery is extremely slow. To eliminate accumulated environmental damage and prevent further groundwater pollution, it is necessary to restore routine monitoring of changes in the chemical composition of groundwater, intensify the ongoing multi-stage treatment of above-sludge waters, and subsequently reclaim the area, including the use of impermeable materials to line the bottom and sides of ash and sludge disposal sites and the construction of flood and mudflow control structures.

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