A new bibliometric study led by researchers from the Graduate School, Universitas Padjadjaran, has conducted a comprehensive analysis of global scientific trends addressing mercury-contaminated soils. By analyzing Scopus-indexed publications from January 2015 to August 2024 using tools like VOSviewer and Bibliometrix, the team observed a strong upward trajectory in research outputs (with R² = 0.79). Their thematic mapping revealed five major research clusters: Environmental Remediation Techniques; Risk Assessment & Pollution Analysis; Health Risks & Environmental Management; Pollution Monitoring & Impact Studies; and Ecotoxicology & Environmental Health. The analysis also identified leading countries—China, the USA, and Spain—that dominate this field. The study not only charts the current landscape but also illuminates key knowledge and geographical gaps. Notably, scholars underscore the urgent need for focused investigations on mercury-contaminated agricultural soils, particularly in regions impacted by artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), to assess human health risks.

This bibliometric mapping supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): By emphasizing the contamination of agricultural soil, the study spotlights threats to food safety and calls for targeted interventions to maintain healthy crop production.

SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being): Identifying high-risk zones and promoting human risk assessments in ASGM-affected areas aids in safeguarding communities from toxic mercury exposure.

SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): The mapping underscores the importance of sustainable remediation strategies and informed policies, fostering safer management of contaminated lands.

SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): By revealing the global research landscape and gaps, the study encourages international collaboration—especially involving underrepresented regions—to help fill critical knowledge voids and advance equitable research agendas.