What is typically a consequence of improper treatment of heavy metals in wastewater?

Improper treatment of heavy metals in wastewater often leads to environmental contamination. Heavy metals, which include substances like lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic, can be toxic to both humans and wildlife. When these metals are not sufficiently removed during the treatment process, they can enter natural water bodies and soil, causing significant harm to ecosystems.

The presence of heavy metals in the environment can lead to bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms, affecting the entire food chain. This contamination can result in long-term detrimental effects on plant and animal life, potentially leading to biodiversity loss and compromised water quality in the surrounding area. The persistence of heavy metals in the environment means that effects can last for years or even decades, underscoring the importance of proper treatment methods to prevent such degradation.