Content of Rare-earth Elements in Plant Samples Collected in the Impact Zone of a Rare-metal Ore Mine

Terrestrial and aquatic plants commonly found in the vicinity of the “Umbozero” rare-metal ore mine (Murmansk Region) were sampled for the first time and investigated. The studied species include goat willow, downy birch, subarctic milkvetch, narrowleaf bur-reed, and shield fern. Substrate samples (soil and bottom sediments) were also collected. Using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), the concentrations of rare-earth elements (REEs) in all collected samples were determined. Elevated REE contents were identified in plant samples compared to background levels, and bioaccumulation coefficients were calculated. The obtained results are recommended for use in the development of phytotechnologies aimed at reducing the negative environmental impact of the decommissioned rare-metal mining facility.