Assessment of Groundwater Nitrate Contamination in the Northern Zawiya Region

Abstract

This study aimed to assess nitrate concentrations in groundwater and evaluate their compliance with international and Libyan standard specifications in the northern region of Zawiya. Nine groundwater wells were selected for sampling within the study area. The collected samples were analyzed using a spectrophotometer to determine nitrate concentrations. The results revealed elevated nitrate levels in all investigated samples, exceeding the permissible limit specified by the Libyan standards (45 ppm). The highest nitrate concentration was recorded in well No. 1, reaching 72 ppm, while the lowest concentration was detected in well No. 2, with a value of 46 ppm. The findings indicate the presence of nitrate contamination in the groundwater resources of the study area, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and effective management strategies to protect groundwater quality.