Assessment of heavy metal accumulation in moss species as biomonitors of atmospheric pollution in the Golesh Fe–Ni mining area, Republic of Kosovo

The study aimed to assess the level of air pollution by heavy metals in the area around Golesh, near the iron–nickel (Fe–Ni) mines, using mosses as biomonitors (Homalothecium lutescens (Hedw.) Robins. At 20 selected sampling sites in this area, concentrations of 17 chemical elements were analyzed using the inductively coupled plasma with mass spectrometry (ICP–MS). This study assessed the elemental content, distribution, and level of heavy metal pollution in moss samples, serving as bioindicators in a potentially contaminated area. Statistical analysis revealed wide variations in metal concentrations, with elements such as Al, Fe, and Mg showing the highest average values. The Contamination Factor (CF) revealed extremely high levels of pollution for Cr, Cd, Co, Pb, and Ni, indicating a significant anthropogenic impact. Factor Analysis and Cluster Analyses confirmed the co–occurrence of toxic elements (As, Pb, Ni, Cd) likely originating from industrial and mining activities. The Pollution Load Index (PLI) also highlighted the overall high contamination status of the area. These findings confirm the presence of local pollution sources and reinforce the usefulness of mosses as biomonitors in environmental assessment.