Geographical Variations: Mapping the Distribution of Toxic Metals Across the Globe

The distribution of toxic metals presents significant public health issues, with differing levels of contamination impacting ecosystems and human health in diverse ways across regions. This chapter aims to map the geographical variations in the presence of toxic metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and chromium across different continents and countries. By integrating data from environmental monitoring organizations, scientific studies, and satellite images, we provide a comprehensive view of areas most affected by contamination and identify emerging trends. Our analysis reveals notable regional differences shaped by factors including industrial operations, mining activities, agricultural practices, and regulatory measures. The results identify crucial areas that need urgent intervention to reduce health risks and environmental harm. Recognizing these geographical disparities is vital for crafting targeted policies and strategies to address toxic metal pollution on a global scale. This chapter emphasizes the importance of international collaboration and ongoing monitoring to protect public health and promote sustainable environmental practices. © 2025 The Editor(s) (if applicable) and The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.