For instance, metal emissions from point sources like mines or metal-producing industries can have a detrimental impact on the surrounding area. But heavy metals from anthropogenic emissions can be transported in the air over wide areas and deposited far from their sources. Major environmental problems resulting from the long-range transboundary transport of heavy metals have been documented. For example, cadmium has accumulated in agricultural soils and been taken up by crops. This has affected consumers, who suffer from high levels of cadmium in their kidneys.
Methyl mercury can damage the central nervous system.
The greatest risk is to foetuses. The damage takes the form of impaired neurological functions in children below school age. Locally elevated levels of lead are also a threat to our health. Children are particularly at risk. They can ingest lead from soils and street dust.