<![CDATA[Heavy metal contamination is an important environmental issue, particularly in developing countries where mining activities are widespread and environmental management is often limited. This study evaluated the level of heavy metal contamination in Lake Belibis, a post-mining pit lake formed by illegal artisanal gold mining activities in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, which is currently used as a natural tourism area. Water and sediment samples were collected from three purposively selected stations representing different surrounding land uses from May to August 2024. Concentrations of mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb) were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). In addition, supporting physico-chemical parameters were measured in situ. The results show that heavy metal concentrations in both water and sediment were generally below applicable environmental quality standards, indicating a relatively low level of contamination under current conditions. The physico-chemical characteristics of the lake reflect stable support the retention of heavy metals in particulate matter and sediments. Overall, the findings suggest that the environmental risk associated with heavy metals in Lake Belibis is currently low, but continuous monitoring is necessary to support environmental risk evaluation and sustainable management of the pit lake.]]>
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