Electromagnetic Pollution: Effects of High-Voltage Power Lines on Soil Health and Microbial Activity

Electromagnetic Pollution: Effects of High-Voltage Power Lines on Soil Health and Microbial Activity | Authorea try { document.documentElement.classList.add('js'); } catch (e) { } var _gaq = _gaq || []; _gaq.push(['_setAccount', 'G-8VDV14Y67G']); _gaq.push(['_trackPageview']); (function() { var ga = document.createElement('script'); ga.type = 'text/javascript'; ga.async = true; ga.src = ('https:' == document.location.protocol ? 'https://ssl' : 'http://www') + '.google-analytics.com/ga.js'; var s = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(ga, s); })(); Skip to main content Preprints Collections Wiley Open Research IET Open Research Ecological Society of Japan All Collections About About Authorea FAQs Contact Us Quick Search anywhere Search for preprint articles, keywords, etc. Search Search ADVANCED SEARCH SCROLL This is a preprint and has not been peer reviewed. Data may be preliminary. 30 January 2025 V1 Latest version Share on Electromagnetic Pollution: Effects of High-Voltage Power Lines on Soil Health and Microbial Activity Authors : Eda Baydilli , Asuman Yanardağ Büyükkılıç 0000-0003-3236-1532 , Erdal Sakin 0000-0001-5403-4247 , İbrahim Yanardağ , and Mehmet Dilekoğlu 0000-0001-7407-1635 [email protected] Authors Info & Affiliations https://doi.org/10.22541/au.173821248.80842617/v1 Published Water, Air, & Soil Pollution Version of record Peer review timeline 1266 views 297 downloads Contents Abstract Information & Authors Metrics & Citations View Options References Figures Tables Media Share Abstract This study evaluates the effects of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from high-voltage power lines (HVLs) on soil biochemical properties in Şanlıurfa, Türkiye. Soil samples from HVL-exposed areas and control sites were analyzed for soluble carbon (Csoluble) and nitrogen (Nsoluble), microbial biomass carbon (Cmic) and nitrogen (Nmic), nitrate (NO3-), ammonium (NH4+), basal respiration (CO2), and enzymatic activities, including catalase (CAT) and dehydrogenase (DHG). Results showed significant alterations in soil properties due to EMF exposure. Soluble C increased from 106.1 to 116.0 mg C kg⁻¹ (+9.3%), and Nsoluble increased from 15.0 to 24.1 mg N kg⁻¹ (+60.7%) in irradiated soils compared to controls. However, Cmic decreased from 180.0 to 140.8 mg C kg⁻¹ (-21.8%), and CAT activity dropped from 81.4 to 60.8 O₂ g⁻¹ soil 5 min⁻¹ (-25.3%). Similarly, DHG activity declined from 8.59 to 7.85 μg TPF g⁻¹ soil 24 h⁻¹ (-8.6%). These reductions suggest microbial stress under EMF influence, with increased microbial metabolic quotient (qCO₂) from 1.19 to 1.54 mg CO₂-C g⁻¹ Cmic h⁻¹ (+29.4%), indicating reduced microbial efficiency. Collectively, these findings reveal significant EMF-induced disruptions to soil biochemical processes, raising concerns about soil health and fertility near HVLs. Further research is essential to elucidate the long-term ecological impacts of EMFs and develop mitigation strategies for sustainable soil management in HVL-affected areas. Introduction Soil forms the foundation of plant production and plays a critical role in meeting global food needs. It also serves as a natural habitat for numerous organisms, including bacteria, fungi, algae, and other microscopic life forms (Brady and Weil, 2017). These microorganisms are vital for maintaining soil health and fertility. They perform essential functions such as decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, enhancing plant nutrition, and controlling plant diseases (Kirkham, 2014; Sylvia et al., 2015; Yanardağ et al., 2014). Soils possess inherent properties determined by their basic formation factors, alongside dynamic properties influenced by human activities and management practices. Maintaining soil quality (health) in agricultural landscapes is critical for ensuring environmental sustainability (ISRIC, 2024; Karlen et al., 1997). Soil quality assessment involves evaluating multiple parameters rather than a single factor. These assessments often focus on the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil that are integral to various soil functions (Karlen et al., 2003; Weil and Brady, 2016). Undisturbed and well-structured soils, which support most plants worldwide, form the foundation of sustainable and balanced ecosystems (Rodríguez et al., 2005). These soils facilitate efficient water infiltration, nutrient cycling, and root development. Additionally, they support a diverse microbial community essential for organic matter decomposition and nutrient availability. Soil structure significantly influences erosion resistance and water retention, enhancing ecosystem resilience against environmental changes (Doran and Zeiss, 2000; Tahat et al., 2020). The most important determinants of soil quality are its biochemical parameters and associated cycles. Soil microbial biomass and enzyme activity are commonly used indicators of microbial activity and soil health (Ramirez et al., 2012). Enzymes play a crucial role in assessing soil fertility and quality (Sakin and Yanardağ, 2021). For instance, the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of soil microbial biomass provides insights into microbial communities (Cleveland and Liptzin, 2007). Soil microbial diversity is a key indicator of soil quality (Zhang et al., 2013). Microbial biomass also serves as an accurate measure of environmental quality (Powlson et al., 1987), carbon availability (Ilstedt and Singh, 2005), and soil biomass (Bucher and Lanyon, 2005). Soil enzymatic activity indicates the magnitude and direction of soil biochemical processes. For example: • Urease catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea to ammonia, influencing nitrogen availability. • Dehydrogenase is an important intracellular enzyme used to assess soil biological activity and microbial biomass (Burns et al., 2013; Yuan and Yue, 2012). • Catalase , associated with aerobic organisms, reflects metabolic activity and is considered a stable soil parameter that decreases with depth and organic carbon content (Trasar-Cepeda et al., 2007; Alef and Nannipieri, 1995). High-voltage power lines (HVLs) are large transmission lines operating at voltage levels between 69,000 and 500,000 volts, used to transport electricity from remote areas to urban centers. The electric current in HVLs generates electromagnetic fields (EMFs) in their vicinity, which can alter the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil (Sakin and Yanardağ, 2021). EMFs also affect microbial metabolism (Fojt et al., 2004), leading to decreased or altered metabolic activity, which in turn influences microbial survival and functionality. Changes in microbial reproduction and growth under EMFs may impact soil microbial community composition and diversity. Such disruptions affect soil ecosystem balance, potentially influencing plant growth, soil fertility, and ecological processes (Sakin and Yanardağ, 2021). Because electromagnetic pollution is invisible, its effects often accumulate over long periods without being directly perceived. Until recently, electromagnetic exposure has been a largely overlooked issue (Hardell et al., 2009). HVLs emit radiation proportional to the electrical charge and flux density (Wade et al., 2013). Such radiation negatively impacts living organisms, including humans, plants, animals, and soil microbes (Funk et al., 2009). While the magnetic field is not directly perceptible, it emits heat that can affect biological systems. Technological advancements have exposed all living organisms to varying levels of electromagnetic waves, which are classified as strong or weak fields. Although short-term exposure to weak fields often causes minimal damage, long-term accumulation of radiation effects can significantly impact biological systems (Beretta et al., 2019a; Jamir et al., 2019; Liburdy et al., 1993). The biological effects of electric or magnetic fields are challenging to evaluate due to the complexity of biological systems. Many studies have explored the effects of these fields on both simple and complex organisms (Simkó, 2004). The electric current passing through biological systems causes negatively and positively charged molecules to move in opposite directions (Blank and Soo, 1993). Given the heterogeneous nature of biological structures, significant cellular changes occur under exposure to electric or magnetic fields, explained by the responses of ions, molecules, and membranes (Funk et al., 2009). Recent studies suggest that EMFs can decrease or increase cellular activity depending on the exposure level (Beretta et al., 2019b). Over the past 80 years, EMF levels in the environment have increased exponentially, leading to widespread effects on flora and fauna (Levitt et al., 2022). Interestingly, EMFs can sometimes positively influence agriculture by increasing beneficial microorganisms, such as ammonifiers and bacteria that utilize mineral nitrogen, enriching soils with plant-available nitrogen (Ratushnyak et al., 2008). However, negative effects on flora, fauna, and biological activity have also been documented (Levitt et al., 2022; Pecoraro et al., 2022). For example, animals exposed to EMFs often experience reduced fertility and reproductive issues (Yakıncı, 2016). In soil ecosystems, EMFs may increase biological reactions (e.g., CO 2 emissions) due to Brownian motion, electrophoresis, and heat generated by electromagnetic waves. This creates stress for soil microorganisms, limiting their living conditions (Sakin and Yanardağ, 2021). Further research is needed to understand the long-term ecological impacts of HVLs on soil microorganisms and ecosystems. Most studies to date have been limited to laboratory experiments or small-scale field studies (Davis et al., 1996; Halgamuge, 2017). Expanding this research is crucial for identifying potential risks and developing strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of electromagnetic pollution on the environment, as well as on animal and human health. This study evaluates the effects of high-voltage power lines on soil biochemical properties, focusing on soluble carbon and nitrogen, microbial biomass, nitrate, ammonium, basal respiration, and enzymatic activities. It aims to uncover the impacts of EMFs on soil health, emphasizing the need for sustainable management of agricultural and ecological landscapes. Materials and methods Materials The study area is located at the 10th kilometer of the Şanlıurfa-Mardin highway in Şanlıurfa province, Turkey (37°09’20”–26” N, 38°51’41”–55” E). At an altitude of 475 meters, the sampling sites were positioned along the crossing routes of high-voltage lines. These high-voltage lines, operating at 69,000–500,000 volts, are suspended at a height of 25–52 meters and spaced approximately 150 meters apart. The land was prepared for cotton cultivation, but no crops were planted. Sampling was conducted along a transect in a “+” pattern, based on the distance from the high-voltage line relative to the midpoint of the cables, referred to as the deflection point (coordinates: 37°09’22” N, 38°51’49” E). The study area and sampling locations are illustrated in Figure 1. The soil samples were collected on April 15, 2018. The study area has been cultivated with cotton and maize for many years using traditional fertilization methods. Samples were taken every 25 meters between two poles supporting the electrical cables, away from the midpoint of the cables. Soil samples were collected from a depth of 0–30 cm, sieved through a 2 mm sieve, and packed in polyethylene bags to minimize moisture loss. The samples were stored at +4 °C to preserve their integrity for microbial analysis. The study area experiences an arid and hot climate during summer, while winters are temperate and rainy. In some years, the rainfall has been insufficient to support agricultural production. The average annual precipitation is 448.11 mm, with the highest temperature of 41.12 °C recorded in July and the lowest temperature of 2.41 °C recorded in February. Relative humidity ranges between 92.32% (highest) and 33.29% (lowest) annually (Sakin and Yanardağ, 2019a). Soil Analyses • Soil Reaction (pH) : Measured using a 1:2.5 (w/v) soil-water mixture. • Electrical Conductivity (EC) : Determined at 1:5 (w/v) using the same soil-water mixture (Jackson, 1958). • Texture Analysis : Conducted with a hydrometer to determine percentages of clay, sand, and silt. The results were classified using a soil texture triangle (Bouyoucos, 1951). • Calcium Carbonate Content (CaCO3) : Measured in a closed system using a Scheibler calcimeter (Allison and Moodie, 1965). • Organic Carbon Content : Determined through the wet oxidation method using potassium dichromate (Walkley and Black, 1934). • Total Nitrogen Content : Measured using the Kjeldahl method (Bremner, 1982). • Microbial Biomass Carbon and Nitrogen : Determined using fumigated and non-fumigated soil extractions with 0.5 M K₂SO₄ solution (Vance et al., 1987). Enzymatic Activity • Dehydrogenase Activity (DHG) : Measured by incubating soil samples with a tetrasodium triphenyl chloride (TTC) solution at 37 °C for 24 hours. The 2,3,5-triphenyl formazan (TPF) produced was quantified at 485 nm using a spectrophotometer, with results expressed in μg TPF g⁻¹ h⁻¹ dry soil (Tabatabai and Bremmer, 1982). • Urease Activity : Determined by incubating soil samples with a substrate urea solution at 37 °C for 1 hour. The resulting solution was stained with sodium ammonium phenolate and measured at 578 nm using a spectrophotometer. Results were expressed in μg N g⁻¹ dry soil h⁻¹ (Tabatabai and Bremner, 1982). • Catalase Activity (CAT) : Measured by determining the volume of oxygen (O₂) released in 3 minutes when soil samples were treated with a 3% H₂O₂ substrate solution in a closed system. Results were expressed as mL O₂ g⁻¹ dry soil min⁻¹ (Beck, 1971). Data analysis Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS 26.0 (SPSS Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) and Origin Pro 2024 software. The normal distribution of all measured properties was assessed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test . A one-factor repeated measures ANOVA was performed to compare data across different groups. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were calculated to examine the relationships among soil properties. Principal Component Analyses (PCA) were performed to identify the primary sources of variation in soil chemical properties, carbon and nitrogen reserves, and enzymatic activities. Data are reported as means with standard deviations, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05 . Results and discussion Results The effects of electric fields (EF; V/m) and magnetic fields (MF; µT) were analyzed for their impact on the biochemical properties of soils near high-voltage power lines (HVLs) (Fig. 2). The results revealed a wider distribution of EF and MF values in irradiated (IR) sites compared to the control. In the control sites, EF ranged from 12 to 50 V/m, with an average of 25.31 V/m, while MF ranged from 0.33 to 1.90 µT, with an average of 0.76 µT. At the IR sites, EF ranged from 8 to 95 V/m, with an average of 32.97 V/m, and MF ranged from 1.0 to 6.5 µT, with an average of 3.25 µT (Fig. 2). The lime content of soils showed no significant difference between IR and control sites. Lime content ranged from 33.12% to 40.06% in control sites and from 32.62% to 40.06% in IR sites, with averages of 37.05% and 37.08%, respectively (Fig. 2). A negative correlation was observed between lime (CaCO 3 ) content and pH (-0.35) at IR sites, indicating a decrease in pH with increased lime content. Soil pH values ranged from 7.3 to 7.8 in the control and from 7.2 to 7.6 at IR sites. On average, pH values decreased from 7.56 in the control to 7.46 at IR sites (Fig. 3). In the control, pH showed a positive correlation with dehydrogenase (DHG) enzyme activity (0.38). At IR sites, pH exhibited a negative correlation (-0.42) and electrical conductivity (EC) showed a positive correlation (0.48) with catalase (CAT) enzyme activity. The soil structure was found to be saline, with salinity (measured as EC) ranging from 180 to 270 µS/cm in the control and from 180 to 220 µS/cm at IR sites. On average, EC decreased from 229.7 µS/cm in the control to 195 µS/cm at IR sites (Fig. 3). Analysis of soil texture revealed that in control sites, clay content ranged from 31.16% to 39.20%, sand from 42.71% to 50.75%, and silt from 12.06% to 20.10%. At IR sites, clay content ranged from 32.16% to 39.80%, sand from 41.91% to 50.75%, and silt from 12.06% to 20.30%. Average values showed slight variations: clay increased from 2.00% to 2.30%, sand increased from 2.12% to 2.28%, and silt increased from 2.37% to 2.38% at IR sites (Fig. 4). The nitrogen (N) content in the soil, including Nsoluble, Nmic, Ntotal, NH 4 , and NO 3 , was significantly influenced by HVLs (Fig. 5). Soluble N (Nsoluble) ranged from 9.79 to 25.34 mg N/kg in the control and from 14.97 to 46.48 mg N/kg in IR sites. On average, Nsoluble increased from 15.03 mg N/kg in the control to 24.09 mg N/kg in IR sites. Microbial nitrogen (Nmic) ranged from 11.52 to 43.11 mg N/kg in the control and from 12.36 to 42.18 mg N/kg at IR sites. The average Nmic slightly increased from 20.43 mg N/kg in the control to 21.09 mg N/kg at IR sites (Fig. 5). The total nitrogen (Ntotal) content ranged from 0.06% to 0.10% in both control and IR sites, with no significant difference between the two (average Ntotal was 0.01% in both cases). Positive correlations were found between Ntotal, nitrate (NO 3 ), and CAT enzyme activity (0.36, 0.71) in the control, while negative correlations were observed with ammonium (NH 4 ) and EC (-0.37, -0.46). Ammonium (NH 4 ) content ranged from 0.11 to 0.95 mg N/kg in the control and from 0.13 to 1.20 mg N/kg at IR sites, with no significant change in the average value (0.40 mg N/kg). Nitrate (NO 3 ) content ranged from 2.75 to 25.38 mg N/kg in the control and from 2.95 to 17.73 mg N/kg at IR sites. On average, nitrate content decreased from 9.81 mg N/kg in the control to 8.39 mg N/kg at IR sites (Fig. 5). Basal respiration (CO 2 ) rates ranged from 0.185 to 0.224 mg CO 2 -C/kg/h in both control and IR sites, with average values of 0.207 mg CO 2 -C/kg/h in both cases (Fig. 6). The microbial metabolic quotient (qCO 2 ) increased from 1.192 mg CO 2 -C/g Cmic/h in the control to 1.539 mg CO 2 -C/g Cmic/h at IR sites. Enzymatic activities, including catalase (CAT) and dehydrogenase (DHG), showed significant reductions at IR sites. CAT activity ranged from 44.00 to 112.00 O 2 /g soil/5 min in the control and from 40.00 to 78.00 O 2 /g soil/5 min at IR sites, with the average decreasing from 81.40 O 2 /g soil/5 min to 60.78 O 2 /g soil/5 min (Fig. 7). Similarly, DHG activity decreased from 8.59 µg TPF/g soil/24 h in the control to 7.85 µg TPF/g soil/24 h at IR sites. Cluster analysis revealed significant groupings based on soil properties (Fig. 8). At control sites, parameters such as sand, qCO 2 , soluble C, NH 4 , and EF were clustered together, while pH, DHG, clay, CAT, and CO 2 formed a second cluster. At IR sites, pH, clay, and MF clustered separately from qCO 2 , NH 4 , NO 3 , and Nsoluble, which were grouped together. Discussion The EF and MF values at IR sites exhibited wider distributions than at control sites, which can be attributed to factors such as differences in distance, current imbalances, and proximity of electrical poles to the ground. These findings align with previous studies that highlight the variability of radiation due to environmental factors (Ratushnyak et al., 2008). Lime content showed no significant differences between control and IR sites, likely due to high lime levels derived from parent material (Olson, 2005). However, a slight decrease in pH at IR sites suggests stress-induced dissolution of lime by microbial activity under radiation exposure. These findings are supported by Narendrula-Kotha and Nkongolo (2017), who observed that liming enhances microbial activity under stress. Nitrogen forms (Nsoluble, Nmic, NH 4 , NO 3 ) and enzymatic activities were significantly impacted by radiation. Increased qCO 2 values indicate heightened microbial stress and reduced efficiency at IR sites. Reduced CAT and DHG activities, key indicators of soil health, further confirm the adverse effects of radiation on microbial functionality. These results provide evidence that electromagnetic fields from HVLs alter soil biochemical properties, disrupt microbial processes, and pose potential risks to soil health and fertility. Future research should focus on long-term impacts and strategies to mitigate radiation-induced stress on soil ecosystems. Conclusion Our study highlights significant changes in soil properties in areas exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMFs). Key findings include: Decreases in pH, organic carbon (Corg), microbial biomass carbon (Cmic), and CO 2 levels, indicating a decline in overall soil quality. Increases in microbial nitrogen (Nmic), soluble nitrogen (Nsoluble), total nitrogen (Ntotal), soluble carbon (Csoluble), and the metabolic quotient (qCO 2 ), suggesting heightened stress on soil microbial communities. The reduction in essential enzymatic activities, such as catalase (CAT) and dehydrogenase (DHG), underscores the negative impact of EMFs on soil microorganisms. These findings demonstrate that prolonged exposure to high-voltage power lines (HVLs) disrupts critical soil health indicators, posing potential risks to soil fertility, agricultural productivity, and ecosystem sustainability. The biochemical changes observed in soils near HVLs emphasize the urgent need for greater awareness and further research into the long-term environmental impacts of electromagnetic pollution. Mitigation strategies must be developed and implemented to safeguard soil health in both agricultural and natural ecosystems. Future research should extend beyond the effects of EMFs on soil, examining their impacts on vegetation. Studies should explore changes in plant diversity, yield, quality, and root biome composition in affected areas. If declines in plant productivity or quality are identified, immediate actions will be required to mitigate further damage. This study offers valuable insights into the environmental consequences of HVLs, providing a foundation for future research aimed at understanding and addressing the adverse effects of EMFs. By tackling these challenges, we can foster sustainable soil resource management and ensure the long-term health and productivity of ecosystems for future generations. Declaration of generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process During the preparation of this work the author(s) used CHATGPT in order to Review and graphical abstract production. After using this tool/service, the author(s) reviewed and edited the content as needed and take(s) full responsibility for the content of the publication. Data Available Staement The data that support the findings of this study are openly available in [repository name e.g “figshare”] at http://doi.org/[doi], reference number [reference number]. References Abubaker, J., Cederlund, H., Arthurson, V., & Pell, M. (2013). Bacterial community structure and microbial activity in different soils amended with biogas residues and cattle slurry. Applied Soil Ecology , 72 , 171–180. Alef, K., & Nannipieri, P. (1995). Catalase activity. 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Predicting the ratio of nitrification to immobilization to reflect the potential risk of nitrogen loss worldwide. Environmental Science & Technology , 55 (11), 7721–7730. Zhao, Z., Shao, S., Liu, N., Liu, Q., Jacquemyn, H., & Xing, X. (2021). Extracellular enzyme activities and carbon/nitrogen utilization in mycorrhizal fungi isolated from epiphytic and terrestrial orchids. Frontiers in Microbiology , 12 , 787820. Figures Figure 1. Study area and sampling locations. Figure 2. Distribution of electric (EF) and magnetic (MF) fields at IR sites (irradiated and non-radiated (control) Figure 3 . Correlation analysis of (a.) irradiated fields and (b.) control. Figure 4. Changes in some physical and chemical properties of soils exposed to radiation Figure 5 . Changes in the biochemical nitrogen content of areas exposed to radiation. Figure 6. Changes in the biochemical carbon content of areas exposed to radiation. Figure 7. Changes in enzymatic activities in areas exposed to radiation. Figure 8. Results of cluster analysis of areas exposed to radiation (NR: No radiation, UR: Irradiated) Figure 9. Graphical Abstract Information & Authors Information Version history V1 Version 1 30 January 2025 Peer review timeline Published Water, Air, & Soil Pollution Version of Record 20 Aug 2025 Published Copyright This work is licensed under a Non Exclusive No Reuse License. Keywords ecological experiment none of the above plants terrestrial Authors Affiliations Eda Baydilli Harran University View all articles by this author Asuman Yanardağ Büyükkılıç 0000-0003-3236-1532 Malatya Turgut Özal University View all articles by this author Erdal Sakin 0000-0001-5403-4247 Harran Universitesi - Osmanbey Kampusu View all articles by this author İbrahim Yanardağ Malatya Turgut Özal University View all articles by this author Mehmet Dilekoğlu 0000-0001-7407-1635 [email protected] Harran University View all articles by this author Metrics & Citations Metrics Article Usage 1266 views 297 downloads .FvxKWukQNSOunydq8rnd { width: 100px; } Citations Download citation Eda Baydilli, Asuman Yanardağ Büyükkılıç, Erdal Sakin, et al. Electromagnetic Pollution: Effects of High-Voltage Power Lines on Soil Health and Microbial Activity. Authorea . 30 January 2025. 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