Is the study of good quality?

‘The study is very comprehensive and uses the novel and interesting tool of machine learning models combined with regional studies, which reveals a global risk while detecting a previously unrecognised high-risk area, low-latitude Eurasia including southern Europe’.

Does it fit with existing evidence?

‘It substantially expands and improves existing knowledge on metal contamination of soils. Unfortunately, it shows that the problem was underestimated and is a major threat to ecosystems and thus to human health, threatening water quality and food security.

Does it have any notable limitations?

‘Due to the lack of sampling data in developing countries and remote regions, the model has high levels of uncertainty in northern Russia, central India and Africa. The data are sufficient for risk assessment, but insufficient to support risk mitigation’.

What are the main measures that can be taken to reduce metal pollution?

‘Caution must be exercised in the new demand scenario for critical metals for the green transition to zero emissions and the development of wind, photovoltaic devices and electric vehicle batteries. These data should serve as a scientific wake-up call for policy makers and farmers to take measures to protect soil through targeted remediation.