Zinc itself is a scratchy substance when it gets overheated but we must be aware that zinc oxide and zinc are two different things. If there is something to “neutralize” the process water with, it will be very welcome. Maybe there is an environmental chemist out there who can shed light on the subject a little more professionally correctly as I do with my basic knowledge.
I am not an environmental activist but I know that every year several groundwater wells are closed in my small country due to pollution.