“Potentially dangerous” heavy metals threatening urban farmlands in the Porto area

“Potentially dangerous” heavy metals are threatening urban farmlands in the Porto area. A study released this week by the University of Aveiro shows that levels in a number of areas have exceeded the maximums defined by the European Union. Worst affected are areas including Maia, Leça da Palmeira and Matosinhos. Scientists warn that the effects could be passing into the human food chain – and call for restrictions to be introduced to protect soil quality.