Zinc in the Environment

     Zinc is a naturally occurring metal found in the air, water, and soil. It is the 23rd most abundant metal found the Earth's crust. Zinc is found in small traces in our food and even our drinking water. Water that is held in a metal container usually has higher amounts of zinc in it. The levels of zinc found in the environment have been rising due to human activities.
     Zinc is very important when it comes to the health of people. People that do not have enough Zinc in their diets can suffer from a lack of appetite, slow healing of wounds, and problems smelling and tasting. Humans can actually handle large amounts of zinc in the body but with increasing levels of Zinc found in the environment new health risks are posed. Having too much Zinc in the body could cause stomach cramps, vomiting, anemia, and skin irritations. Extremely high levels of zinc can cause damage to the pancreas and interrupt the protein metabolism in the body. Over exposure over time can cause respiratory problems. 

Source: http://www.lenntech.com/periodic/elements/zn.htm#ixzz2DRlBUYhf