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Okeke ES, Nwankwo CE, Ezeorba TPC, Iloh VC, Enochoghene AE. Occurrence and ecotoxicological impacts of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in electronic waste (e-waste) in Africa: Options for sustainable and eco-friendly management strategies. Toxicology 2024; 506:153848. [PMID: 38825032 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are persistent contaminants used as flame retardants in electronic products. PBDEs are contaminants of concern due to leaching and recalcitrance conferred by the stable and hydrophobic bromide residues. The near absence of legislatures and conscious initiatives to tackle the challenges of PBDEs in Africa has allowed for the indiscriminate use and consequent environmental degradation. Presently, the incidence, ecotoxicity, and remediation of PBDEs in Africa are poorly elucidated. Here, we present a position on the level of contamination, ecotoxicity, and management strategies for PBDEs with regard to Africa. Our review shows that Africa is inundated with PBDEs from the proliferation of e-waste due to factors like the increasing growth in the IT sector worsened by the procurement of second-hand gadgets. An evaluation of the fate of PBDEs in the African environment reveals that the environment is adequately contaminated, although reported in only a few countries like Nigeria and Ghana. Ultrasound-assisted extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, and Soxhlet extraction coupled with specific chromatographic techniques are used in the detection and quantification of PBDEs. Enormous exposure pathways in humans were highlighted with health implications. In terms of the removal of PBDEs, we found a gap in efforts in this direction, as not much success has been reported in Africa. However, we outline eco-friendly methods used elsewhere, including microbial degradation, zerovalent iron, supercritical fluid, and reduce, reuse, recycle, and recovery methods. The need for Africa to make and implement legislatures against PBDEs holds the key to reduced effect on the continent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Sunday Okeke
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Emergency Management, School of the Environment and Safety, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd., Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State 410001, Nigeria; Natural Science Unit, School of General Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State 410001, Nigeria; College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, Deanery of Molecular, Genetic and Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| | - Chidiebele Emmanuel Nwankwo
- Natural Science Unit, School of General Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State 410001, Nigeria; Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences & Natural Science Unit, School of General Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State 410001, Nigeria; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd., Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Timothy Prince Chidike Ezeorba
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State 410001, Nigeria; Department of Environmental Health and Risk Management, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Veronica Chisom Iloh
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State 410001, Nigeria
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Kuttiyathil MS, Ali L, Hajamohideen AR, Altarawneh M. Debromination of novel brominated flame retardants using Zn-based additives: A viable thermochemical approach in the mitigation of toxic effects during e-waste recycling. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 346:123645. [PMID: 38402939 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are bromine-bearing additives added to the polymeric fraction in various applications to impede fire ignition. The Stockholm Convention and various other legislations abolished legacy BFRs usage and hence, the so-called novel BFRs (NBFRs) were introduced into the market. Recent studies spotlighted their existence in household dust, aquifers and aquatic/aerial species. Co-pyrolysis of BFRs with metal oxides has emerged as a potent chemical recycling approach that produces a bromine-free stream of hydrocarbon. Herein, we investigate the debromination of two prominent two NBFRs; namely tetrabromobisphenol A 2,3-dibromopropyl ether (TD) and tetrabromobisphenol A diallyl ether (TAE) through their co-pyrolysis with zinc oxide (ZnO) and franklinite (ZnFe2O4). Most of the zinc content in electrical arc furnace dust (EAFD) exists in the form of these two metal oxides. Conversion of these metal oxides into their respective bromides could also assist in the selective extraction of the valuable zinc content in EAFD. The debromination potential of both oxides was unveiled via a multitude of characterization studies to analyze products (char, gas and condensates). The thermogravimetric analysis suggested a pyrolytic run up to 500 °C and the TAE treatment with ZnO produced only a trivial amount of brominated compounds (relative area, 0.83%). Phenol was the sole common compound in condensable products; potentially formed by the β-scission debromination reaction from the parental molecular skeleton. Inorganic compounds and methane were the major constituents in the gaseous products. The pyrochar analyses confirmed the presence of metal bromides retained in the residue, averting the bromine release into the atmosphere. The ion chromatography analysis portrayed <8% of HBr gas release into the atmosphere upon pyrolysis with ZnO. The ZnO dominance herein envisaged further probes into other spinel ferrites in combating brominated polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Shafi Kuttiyathil
- United Arab Emirates University, Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street, Al-Ain, 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Labeeb Ali
- United Arab Emirates University, Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street, Al-Ain, 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdul Razack Hajamohideen
- United Arab Emirates University, Department of Physics, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street, Al-Ain, 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammednoor Altarawneh
- United Arab Emirates University, Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street, Al-Ain, 15551, United Arab Emirates.
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Okeke ES, Enochoghene A, Ezeudoka BC, Kaka SD, Chen Y, Mao G, ThankGod Eze C, Feng W, Wu X. A review of heavy metal risks around e-waste sites and comparable municipal dumpsites in major African cities: Recommendations and future perspectives. Toxicology 2024; 501:153711. [PMID: 38123013 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
In Africa, the effects of informal e-waste recycling on the environment are escalating. It is regularly transported from developed to developing nations, where it is disassembled informally in search of precious metals, thus increasing human exposure to harmful compounds. Africa has a serious problem with e-waste, as there are significant facilities in Ghana and Nigeria where imported e-waste is unsafely dismantled. however, because they are in high demand and less expensive than new ones, old electronic and electrical items are imported in large quantities, just like in many developing nations. After that, these objects are frequently scavenged to recover important metals through heating, burning, incubation in acids, and other techniques. Serious health hazards are associated with these activities for workers and individuals close to recycling plants. At e-waste sites in Africa, there have been documented instances of elevated concentrations of hazardous elements, persistent organic pollutants, and heavy metals in dust, soils, and vegetation, including plants consumed as food. Individuals who handle and dispose of e-waste are exposed to highly hazardous chemical substances. This paper examines heavy metal risks around e-waste sites and comparable municipal dumpsites in major African cities. Elevated concentrations of these heavy metals metal in downstream aquatic and marine habitats have resulted in additional environmental impacts. These effects have been associated with unfavourable outcomes in marine ecosystems, such as reduced fish stocks characterized by smaller sizes, increased susceptibility to illness, and decreased population densities. The evidence from the examined studies shows how much e-waste affects human health and the environment in Africa. Sub-Saharan African nations require a regulatory framework that includes specialized laws, facilities, and procedures for the safe recycling and disposal of e-waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Sunday Okeke
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Science & Natural Science Unit, School of General Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State 410001, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Steve Dokpo Kaka
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Guanghua Mao
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | | | - Weiwei Feng
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Xiangyang Wu
- Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Safety, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
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Luo K, Qiao Z, Liang W, Lu C, Fu M, Zhou S, Han Y, Peng C, Zhang W. Contamination characteristics and potential health risk of brominated flame retardants in paddy soils and rice plants around a typical e-waste recycling site in south China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 334:122160. [PMID: 37437756 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are widely used in various productions. As typical BFRs, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are prohibited because of their toxicity and persistence. Some of the alternatives to PBDEs, new brominated flame retardants (NBFRs), have also been found in the environment and some have assigned hazardous properties and were categorized as persistent. In this study, a typical e-waste dismantling area was chosen as the study area, and the soil and rice samples were collected from the paddy fields around the circular economy park in Guiyu, China. The contaminations of PBDEs and NBFRs in soils and rice plants were detected, and the health risks associated with consumption and exposure to the environment were calculated as well. The concentrations of ∑PBDEs and ∑NBFRs in soil ranged from 283 to 928 μg/kg and 54.7-437 μg/kg, respectively. In rice plants, the majority of BFRs were concentrated in the following order: root > leaf > stem > grain. Additionally, only the PBT exhibited a stronger bioaccumulation ability in rice with the bioconcentration factors more than 1.00. The results of the health quotient calculation shown that BDE-47 might have an impact on people's health that only the HQ of BDE-47 in the soil was higher than 1.00, while there had no significant health risk in grain of BFRs. We believe that our work could assist researchers in investigating and revealing the human health effects of BFRs in soil and rice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailun Luo
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Zhihua Qiao
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Weiyu Liang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Cong Lu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Mengru Fu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Shanqi Zhou
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Yanna Han
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China
| | - Wei Zhang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, PR China.
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Dinh MTN, Nguyen VT, Nguyen LTH. The potential application of carbazole-degrading bacteria for dioxin bioremediation. BIORESOUR BIOPROCESS 2023; 10:56. [PMID: 38647625 PMCID: PMC10992316 DOI: 10.1186/s40643-023-00680-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Extensive research has been conducted over the years on the bacterial degradation of dioxins and their related compounds including carbazole, because these chemicals are highly toxic and has been widely distributed in the environment. There is a pressing need to explore and develop more bacterial strains with unique catabolic features to effectively remediate dioxin-polluted sites. Carbazole has a chemical structure similar to dioxins, and the degradation pathways of these two chemicals are highly homologous. Some carbazole-degrading bacterial strains have been demonstrated to have the ability to degrade dioxins, such as Pseudomonas sp. strain CA10 và Sphingomonas sp. KA1. The introduction of strain KA1 into dioxin-contaminated model soil resulted in the degradation of 96% and 70% of 2-chlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2-CDD) and 2,3-dichlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,3-DCDD), respectively, after 7-day incubation period. These degradation rates were similar to those achieved with strain CA10, which removed 96% of 2-CDD and 80% of 2,3-DCDD from the same model soil. Therefore, carbazole-degrading bacteria hold significant promise as potential candidates for dioxin bioremediation. This paper overviews the connection between the bacterial degradation of dioxins and carbazole, highlighting the potential for dioxin biodegradation by carbazole-degrading bacterial strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai Thi Ngoc Dinh
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Phenikaa University, A9 Building, Nguyen Van Trac Street, Ha Dong District, Hanoi, Vietnam.
- Bioresource Research Center, Phenikaa University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Van Thi Nguyen
- VNU Institute of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Vietnam National University, E2 Building, 144 Xuan Thuy Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Ly Thi Huong Nguyen
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
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Andeobu L, Wibowo S, Grandhi S. Informal E-waste recycling practices and environmental pollution in Africa: What is the way forward? Int J Hyg Environ Health 2023; 252:114192. [PMID: 37348165 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Globally, e-waste is the fastest growing and most valuable waste-stream. While countries worldwide are increasingly acknowledging the e-waste problem and introducing policies and regulations that deal with e-waste, large quantities of e-waste still go undocumented. Much of these global e-wastes are accumulating in open-dumpsites and landfills in African-countries where they are recycled informally resulting in significant environmental and public-health concerns. Although, there is a plethora of studies on e-waste management and disposal, only a few-studies have focused on African-countries who are major recipients of e-waste. Moreover, despite the attempts to mitigate the problem of e-waste in African-countries, e-waste has remained a major-concern and there are currently very limited workable solutions. This study examines informal e-waste recycling, environmental pollution and the extent of environmental and health impacts in major countries of concern including Ghana, Nigeria, Egypt, Kenya and South Africa. The global e-waste Waste Atlas Report, 2020 identified these countries as major recipients of e-waste. To achieve the aims of this research, previous studies from 2005 to 2022 are collected from various databases and analyzed. Accordingly, this study focuses on environmental pollution and public-health impacts resulting from e-waste dumping and informal recycling practices, illegal transboundary shipment of e-waste to the selected countries, and the interventions of governments and international organizations in reducing the impact of e-waste pollution and informal recycling practices in Africa. Based on the outcomes of this study, practical approaches on the way-forward are recommended. The findings of this study contribute to a growing-body of research on informal e-waste recycling practices in Africa to document that individuals working within e-waste sites and residents in nearby communities are exposed to a number of toxic-substances, some at potentially concerning levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda Andeobu
- Central Queensland University, 120 Spencer Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
| | - Santoso Wibowo
- Central Queensland University, 120 Spencer Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
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Nagar N, Saxena H, Pathak A, Mishra A, Poluri KM. A review on structural mechanisms of protein-persistent organic pollutant (POP) interactions. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 332:138877. [PMID: 37164191 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of the industrial revolution, the accumulation of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the environment has become ubiquitous. POPs are halogen-containing organic molecules that accumulate, and remain in the environment for a long time, thus causing toxic effects in living organisms. POPs exhibit a high affinity towards biological macromolecules such as nucleic acids, proteins and lipids, causing genotoxicity and impairment of homeostasis in living organisms. Proteins are essential members of the biological assembly, as they stipulate all necessary processes for the survival of an organism. Owing to their stereochemical features, POPs and their metabolites form energetically favourable complexes with proteins, as supported by biological and dose-dependent toxicological studies. Although individual studies have reported the biological aspects of protein-POP interactions, no comprehensive study summarizing the structural mechanisms, thermodynamics and kinetics of protein-POP complexes is available. The current review identifies and classifies protein-POP interaction according to the structural and functional basis of proteins into five major protein targets, including digestive and other enzymes, serum proteins, transcription factors, transporters, and G-protein coupled receptors. Further, analysis detailing the molecular interactions and structural mechanism evidenced that H-bonds, van der Waals, and hydrophobic interactions essentially mediate the formation of protein-POP complexes. Moreover, interaction of POPs alters the protein conformation through kinetic and thermodynamic processes like competitive inhibition and allostery to modulate the cellular signalling processes, resulting in various pathological conditions such as cancers and inflammations. In summary, the review provides a comprehensive insight into the critical structural/molecular aspects of protein-POP interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nupur Nagar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Harshi Saxena
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Aakanksha Pathak
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Amit Mishra
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur, 342011, Rajasthan, India
| | - Krishna Mohan Poluri
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India; Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, 247667, Uttarakhand, India.
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Issah I, Arko-Mensah J, Agyekum TP, Dwomoh D, Fobil JN. Electronic waste exposure and DNA damage: a systematic review and meta-analysis. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2023; 38:15-31. [PMID: 34727591 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2021-0074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Inappropriate processing and disposal of electronic waste (e-waste) expose workers and surrounding populations to hazardous chemicals, including clastogens and aneugens. Recently, considerable literature has grown around e-waste recycling, associated chemical exposures and intermediate health outcomes, including DNA damage. Micronuclei (MN) frequency has been widely used as a biomarker to investigate DNA damage in human populations exposed to genotoxic agents. We conducted a systematic review of published studies to assess DNA damage in e-waste-exposed populations and performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the association between e-waste exposure and DNA damage. METHODS This systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement checklist. Articles published in English from January 2000 through December 2020 investigating the associations between e-waste exposure and DNA damage were retrieved from the following three major databases: MEDLINE, ProQuest, and Scopus. Studies that reported the use of MN assay as a biomarker of DNA damage were included for meta-analysis. Studies that also reported other DNA damage biomarkers such as chromosomal aberrations, comet assay biomarkers, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), telomere length, apoptosis rate were reported using narrative synthesis. RESULTS A total of 20 publications were included in this review, of which seven studies were within the occupational setting, and the remaining 13 studies were ecological studies. The review found six biomarkers of DNA damage (micronuclei, comets assay parameters (tail length, % tail DNA, tail moment, and olive tail moment), 8-OHdG, telomere length, apoptosis rate and chromosomal aberrations) which were assessed using seven different biological matrices (buccal cells, blood, umbilical cord blood, placenta, urine and semen). Most studies showed elevated levels of DNA damage biomarkers among e-waste exposed populations than in control populations. The most commonly used biomarkers were micronuclei frequency (n=9) in peripheral blood lymphocytes or buccal cells and 8-OHdG (n=7) in urine. The results of the meta-analysis showed that electronic waste recycling has contributed to an increased risk of DNA damage measured using MN frequency with a pooled estimate of the standardized mean difference (SMD) of 2.30 (95% CI: 1.36, 3.24, p<0.001) based on 865 participants. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, evidence from this systematic review with meta-analysis suggest that occupational and non-occupational exposure to e-waste processing is associated with increased risk of DNA damage measured through MN assay and other types of DNA damage biomarkers. However, more studies from other developing countries in Africa, Latin America, and South Asia are needed to confirm and increase these results' generalizability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Issah
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, Ghana
| | - John Arko-Mensah
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, Ghana
| | - Thomas P Agyekum
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, Ghana
| | - Duah Dwomoh
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, Ghana
| | - Julius N Fobil
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, Ghana
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Wang M, Liu G, Yang L, Zheng M. Framework of the Integrated Approach to Formation Mechanisms of Typical Combustion Byproducts─Polyhalogenated Dibenzo- p-dioxins/Dibenzofurans (PXDD/Fs). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:2217-2234. [PMID: 36722466 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c08064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms through which persistent organic pollutants (POPs) form during combustion processes is critical for controlling emissions of POPs, but the mechanisms through which most POPs form are poorly understood. Polyhalogenated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PXDD/Fs) are typical toxic POPs, and the formation mechanisms of PXDD/Fs are better understood than the mechanisms through which other POPs form. In this study, a framework for identifying detailed PXDD/Fs formation mechanisms was developed and reviewed. The latest laboratory studies in which organic free radical intermediates of PXDD/Fs have been detected in situ and isotope labeling methods have been used to trace transformation pathways were reviewed. These studies provided direct evidence for PXDD/Fs formation pathways. Quantum chemical calculations were performed to determine the rationality of proposed PXDD/Fs formation pathways involving different elementary reactions. Many field studies have been performed, and the PXDD/Fs congener patterns found were compared with PXDD/Fs congener patterns obtained in laboratory simulation studies and theoretical studies to mutually verify the dominant PXDD/Fs formation mechanisms. The integrated method involving laboratory simulation studies, theoretical calculations, and field studies described and reviewed here can be used to clarify the mechanisms involved in PXDD/Fs formation. This review brings together information about PXDD/Fs formation mechanisms and provides a methodological framework for investigating PXDD/Fs and other POPs formation mechanisms during combustion processes, which will help in the development of strategies for controlling POPs emissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
| | - Guorui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
- School of the Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, People's Republic of China
| | - Lili Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
| | - Minghui Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, People's Republic of China
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
- School of the Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, People's Republic of China
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Eze CT, Otitoloju AA, Eze OO, Ugochukwu TE, Onodugo C, Ali AM, Lyche JL, Karlsen OA, Goksøyr A. West African e-waste-soil assessed with a battery of cell-based bioassays. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 856:159068. [PMID: 36179844 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Soil samples randomly taken from major e-waste sites in West Africa (Nigeria, Benin and Ghana) were examined for an extensive range of organic contaminants. Cytotoxicity measurements and assessment of activation of xeno-sensing receptors from fish (Atlantic cod) were employed as a battery of in vitro biological assays to explore the quality and toxicity profile of West African e-waste soil. The concentrations of the measured contaminants of emerging concerns (CECs) and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the e-waste soil differs significantly from the reference soil with chemical profiles typically dominated by legacy polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) (405.8 μgkg-1) and emerging organophosphate ester flame retardant tris (1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TCPP) (404 μgkg-1), in addition to the short chain perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS) (275.3 μgkg-1) and perfluorobutanoate (PFBA) (16 μgkg-1). The study revealed that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) occurred only in e-waste soil from Ghana and ranged from 2.6 to 5.0 μgkg-1. Overall, non-polar e-waste soil-derived extracts had a stronger effect on COS-7 cell viability than the polar extracts and elutriates. The highest receptor activation was observed with single polar and non-polar extracts from the Nigeria and Benin sites, indicating hotspots with Er-, PPARa- and Ahr-agonist activities. Thus, the results obtained with our battery of in vitro biological assays underscored these e-waste sites as remarkably polluted spots with complex toxicity profiles of great concern for human and environmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwuebuka ThankGod Eze
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria; Department of Zoology, University of Lagos, Akoka-Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | | | | | | | - Chinemelum Onodugo
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - Aasim Musa Ali
- Section of Contaminants and Biohazards, Institute of Marine Research (IMR), P.O 1870 Nordnes, NO-5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Jan Ludvig Lyche
- Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Odd André Karlsen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anders Goksøyr
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Liang J, Wang R, Liu H, Xie D, Tao X, Zhou J, Yin H, Dang Z, Lu G. Unintentional formation of mixed chloro-bromo diphenyl ethers (PBCDEs), dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PBCDD/Fs) from pyrolysis of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 308:136246. [PMID: 36044966 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study presents the comprehensive investigation for formation pathways of chloro-bromo-mixed products from the pyrolysis of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). In the study, a total of 23 PBDEs with bromination levels from mono-to deca-were selected. Each PBDE standard was sealed in the glass vial and then heated under 450 °C in the muffle furnace to simulate the pyrolysis process. The results demonstrated that PBDEs in the glass vials can unintentionally transform into chloro-bromo diphenyl ethers (PBCDEs) and dibenzo-p-dioxin and dibenzofurans (PBCDD/Fs) during the pyrolysis process. Atmosphere pressure gas chromatography (APGC) coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) was used to identify these pyrolysis products, which demonstrated that all investigated nPBDEs (n represents the number of bromine substituents) can unintentionally transform into Cl1-(n-1)BDEs, Cl2-(n-2)BDEs, Cl1-(n-1)BDFs, and Cl1-(n-3)BDDs, while some nPBDEs can transform into Cl1-(n-2)PBDD/Fs during pyrolysis. Experimental phenomena assisted with density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that Cl atom can substitute at C-Br rather than C-H, and Cl1-(n-1)BDEs can be easily generated by Cl atom attacking at C-Br sites with low energy barriers (3.66-11.9 kcal/mol). In addition, nPBDEs with lower bromination levels are more favorable to generate Cl1-(n-1)BDEs than those with higher bromination levels. Further DFT calculations suggest that PBDEs are preferentially first transformed into Cl1-(n-1)BDEs, then subsequentially transform into PBCDD/Fs. We believe the results of this study can greatly improve our understanding of the transformation mechanism from PBDEs to cholo-bromo-mixed products in thermal treatment processes and provide new insight into controlling the emission of toxic cholo-bromo-mixed products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Liang
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Rui Wang
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
| | - He Liu
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Danping Xie
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Xueqin Tao
- College of Resources and Environment, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, 510225, China
| | - Jiangmin Zhou
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Hua Yin
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zhi Dang
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510006, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Solid Wastes Pollution Control and Recycling, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Guining Lu
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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12
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Issah I, Arko-Mensah J, Agyekum TP, Dwomoh D, Fobil JN. Health Risks Associated with Informal Electronic Waste Recycling in Africa: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14278. [PMID: 36361155 PMCID: PMC9655142 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Informal electronic waste (e-waste) recycling in Africa has become a major public health concern. This review examined studies that report on the association between e-waste exposure and adverse human health outcomes in Africa. The review was conducted following the updated version of the Preferred Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA 2020) statement checklist. We included papers that were original peer-reviewed epidemiological studies and conference papers, written in English, and reported on e-waste exposure among human populations and any health-related outcome in the context of Africa. Our results from the evaluation of 17 studies found an association between informal e-waste recycling methods and musculoskeletal disease (MSD) symptoms and physical injuries such as back pains, lacerations, eye problems, skin burns, and noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). In addition, the generation and release of particulate matter (PM) of various sizes, and toxic and essential metals such as cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), etc., during the recycling process are associated with adverse systemic intermediate health outcomes including cardiopulmonary function and DNA damage. This systematic review concludes that the methods used by e-waste recyclers in Africa expose them to increased risk of adverse health outcomes. However, there is a need for more rigorous research that moves past single pollutant analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Issah
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra 00233, Ghana
| | - John Arko-Mensah
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra 00233, Ghana
| | - Thomas P. Agyekum
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra 00233, Ghana
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana
| | - Duah Dwomoh
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra 00233, Ghana
| | - Julius N. Fobil
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra 00233, Ghana
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Ding L, Wang S, Zhu C, Xia W, Qu C. Pollution Characteristics and Health Risk Assessment of Phthalate Esters in PSW Recycling Sites: A Typical Case Study. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2022; 109:585-591. [PMID: 35536320 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-021-03409-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The concentrations of six priority phthalate esters (PAEs) in 700 soil samples and 110 sediment samples from an area in China containing plastic solid waste (PSW) recycling sites were determined. The total concentrations of the six PAEs in soil and sediment were not detected - 274 and not detected - 597 mg kg-1, respectively, and the mean concentrations in soil and sediment were 14.4 and 31.7 mg kg-1, respectively. The dominant PAEs were di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and di-n-butyl phthalate. PAEs were detected in soil collected from the surface to 0.5 m below ground level around the PSW recycling sites, and the concentrations were markedly higher in these areas than at other polluted sites. PSW recycling is an important source of PAEs to soil and sediment. The di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate concentrations in soil were higher than the relevant concentrations that pose environmental risks for sensitive land uses and non-sensitive land uses (42 and 121 mg kg-1, respectively), indicating emissions of PAEs from PSW recycling sites may pose environmental risks. The results indicate that PAE pollution at PSW sites needs to be better controlled and managed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Ding
- Jiangsu Environmental Engineering Technology Co., Ltd., Nanjing, 210036, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shui Wang
- Jiangsu Provincial Academy of Environmental Science, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Nanjing, 210036, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chi Zhu
- Jiangsu Environmental Engineering Technology Co., Ltd., Nanjing, 210036, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weiyi Xia
- Jiangsu Environmental Engineering Technology Co., Ltd., Nanjing, 210036, Jiangsu, China
| | - Changsheng Qu
- Jiangsu Environmental Engineering Technology Co., Ltd., Nanjing, 210036, Jiangsu, China.
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14
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Hashimoto S, Takazawa Y, Ieda T, Omagari R, Nakajima D, Nakamura S, Suzuki N. Application of rapid air sampling and non-targeted analysis using thermal desorption comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry to accidental fire. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 303:135021. [PMID: 35598787 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
To be able to gauge the health risks and biological effects of e-waste fires, it is of key importance to know what types and amounts of chemicals are released when they occur. In this case study, we pumped 6-24 L of air from an accidental fire at a recycling depot through a Tenax-TA tube and conducted comprehensive (non-targeted) analysis by thermal desorption/comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TD/GC × GC/ToFMS). A special focus was placed on the search for halogenated compounds. More than 5000 components were detected in the atmosphere around the fire; however, component separation was insufficient, even when using GC × GC. The number of organohalogen compounds retrieved was increased about 1.8-fold by the refinement process of the exact mass spectrum using mass defect filtering (MDF) software. After processed by MDF, 386 peaks were concluded to be halogenated compounds. The major retrieved substances included chlorinated (or chlorinated-brominated) dioxins, chlorinated (or brominated) phenols, benzene, and various other halogenated aromatic compounds. Direct comparison of mass spectra was carried out to investigate the potential for qualitative and quantitative comparison of detected peaks without specific identification. The approximate quantitative values are summarized for each compound in the estimated substance group. Their ratios were estimated to be halogenated phenols: 13%, benzenes: 9.6%, dibenzo-p-dioxins: 9.6%, dibenzofurans: 8.4%, biphenyls; 7.4% and toluenes: 6.4%.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Teruyo Ieda
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, Japan
| | - Ryo Omagari
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, Japan
| | | | - Satoshi Nakamura
- Research Institute of Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries, Osaka Prefecture, Japan
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15
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Nguyen TLA, Dang HTC, Dat TTH, Brandt BW, Röling WFM, Brouwer A, van Spanning RJM. Correlating biodegradation kinetics of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin to the dynamics of microbial communities originating from soil in Vietnam contaminated with herbicides and dioxins. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:923432. [PMID: 36033897 PMCID: PMC9404497 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.923432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied the succession of bacterial communities during the biodegradation of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD). The communities originated from a mesocosm with soil from Bien Hoa airbase in Vietnam heavily contaminated with herbicides and dioxins. They were grown in defined media with different carbon and Gibbs energy sources and 2,3,7,8-TCDD. Cultures with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as the sole carbon and energy source degraded about 95% of 2,3,7,8-TCDD within 60 days of cultivation. Those with an additional 1 mM of vanillin did that in roughly 90 days. Further 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing showed that the increase in relative abundance of members belonging to the genera Bordetella, Sphingomonas, Proteiniphilum, and Rhizobium correlated to increased biodegradation of 2,3,7,8-TCDD in these cultures. A higher concentration of vanillin slowed down the biodegradation rate. Addition of alternative carbon and Gibbs energy sources, such as amino acids, sodium lactate and sodium acetate, even stopped the degradation of 2,3,7,8-TCDD completely. Bacteria from the genera Bordetella, Achromobacter, Sphingomonas and Pseudomonas dominated most of the cultures, but the microbial profiles also significantly differed between cultures as judged by non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analyses. Our study indicates that 2,3,7,8-TCDD degradation may be stimulated by bacterial communities preadapted to a certain degree of starvation with respect to the carbon and energy source. It also reveals the succession and abundance of defined bacterial genera in the degradation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Lan Anh Nguyen
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
- *Correspondence: Thi Lan Anh Nguyen,
| | - Ha Thi Cam Dang
- Institute of Biotechnology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Ton That Huu Dat
- Mientrung Institute for Scientific Research, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
| | - Bernd W. Brandt
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam, University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wilfred F. M. Röling
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Abraham Brouwer
- BioDetection Systems, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Ecological Science, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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16
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Lee LC, Zhang L, Chen X, Gui S, Zhou S. An overview study on management and implementation of WEEE in China. ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY 2022; 25:1-16. [PMID: 35789746 PMCID: PMC9243786 DOI: 10.1007/s10668-022-02489-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) which contains various valuable and harmful materials is an inevitable waste in modern society. In order to resolve the pollution problems associated with WEEE treatment, a WEEE management system has been established in China. The main role of importers and manufacturers of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) is to pay the treatment fees to facilitate the WEEE recycling in China. The announced treatment and subsidy fee is given by set, not by the weight of WEEE. There is no lesser green treatment fee for the producers which can produce environmentally friendly EEE in China. Also, the recovery of refrigerants from the foaming agent of refrigerators is not required in China. In total, 45 million sets of recycled WEEE were certified in 2020, a year that contains the most updated data. Among them, 48%, 14%, 20%, 10% and 8% are for TV, refrigerator, washing machine, computer and air conditioners, respectively. The spatial analysis indicates that the WEEE recycling activities are mainly concentrated on the mid-east and east regions of China. It also can be concluded that the certified amount of each province has higher positive correlation with provincial population than provincial GDP per capita and green recovery rate. It also clearly notes that the amount of recycled air conditioner is the lowest for each province. Thus, more effort should be conducted to increase the recycling of scrapped air conditioner in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lien-Chieh Lee
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, 435003 China
| | - Lili Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, 435003 China
| | - Xi Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, 435003 China
| | - Shusheng Gui
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hubei Polytechnic University, Huangshi, 435003 China
| | - Shaobo Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Biomedical and Environmental Science and Technology, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, LU1 3JU UK
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17
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Lin S, Ali MU, Zheng C, Cai Z, Wong MH. Toxic chemicals from uncontrolled e-waste recycling: Exposure, body burden, health impact. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:127792. [PMID: 34802823 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Uncontrolled electronic-waste (e-waste) recycling processes have induced serious environmental pollution and human health impacts. This paper reviewed studies on the wide range of toxic chemicals through the use of primitive recycling techniques, their transfer to various ecological compartments, and subsequent health impacts. Results indicated that local food items were heavily polluted by the pollutants emitted, notably heavy metals in vegetables, rice, fish and seafood, and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in livestock. Dietary exposure is the most important exposure pathway. The associations between exposure to e-waste and high body burdens of these pollutants were evident. It seems apparent that toxic chemicals emitted from e-waste activities are causing a number of major illnesses related to cardiovascular, digestive and respiratory systems, according to the information provided by a local hospital (Taizhou, an e-waste recycling hot spot in China). More epidemiological data should be made available to the general public. It is envisaged that there are potential dangers of toxic chemicals passing on to the next generation via placental transfer and lactation. There is a need to monitor the development and health impacts of infants and children, born and brought up in the e-waste sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyi Lin
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Muhammad Ubaid Ali
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chunmiao Zheng
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zongwei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ming Hung Wong
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Consortium on Health, Environment, Education and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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18
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Folarin BT, Abdallah M, Oluseyi TO, Harrad S, Olayinka KO. Concentrations and Toxic Implications of Dioxin-Like Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Soil Samples from Electrical Power Stations in Lagos, Nigeria. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2022; 41:800-809. [PMID: 34918382 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dl-PCBs) are ubiquitous chemicals which mediate toxicity in a way similar to polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans. In silico modeling was used to predict the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties of eight dioxin-like PCBs in soil samples of 12 power stations in Lagos, Nigeria. Concentrations of Σdl-PCB8 in soil samples ranged from 490 to 61,000 pg g-1 , with mean concentrations of 17,000 pg g-1 . The corresponding toxic equivalent (TEQ) concentrations of Ʃdl-PCB8 ranged from 0.01 to 450 pg TEQ g-1 , with a mean value of 42 pg TEQ g-1 . Mean TEQ concentrations for Ʃdl-PCB8 in soil samples from all but one of the sites exceeded the Canadian guideline value of 4 pg TEQ g-1 and the US and German guideline values of 5-10 pg TEQ g-1 . However, the TEQ concentrations obtained were all below the US action level of 1000 pg TEQ g-1 . The ADMET predictions revealed that all studied dl-PCBs are inhibitors of three major isoforms (1A2, 2C9, and 2C19) of cytochrome P450 enzyme. Acute oral toxicity (median lethal dose) predictions revealed that all target dl-PCBs were class III compounds. Hepatotoxicity and carcinogenicity were positive, signifying that the studied compounds all have a tendency to elicit these effects. Occupational daily TEQ exposure via soil ingestion was estimated for an average adult worker weighing 70 kg. The maximum exposure obtained was 0.14 pg TEQ kg-1 body weight day-1 , which is half of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) tolerable daily intake (TDI) for dioxin-like compounds. This raises concern over the possible exceedance of the EFSA TDI for these workers if other dietary and nondietary exposure pathways and dioxin-like compounds are considered. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:800-809. © 2021 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilikis T Folarin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Chemistry, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Mohamed Abdallah
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Stuart Harrad
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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19
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Maes T, Preston-Whyte F. E-waste it wisely: lessons from Africa. SN APPLIED SCIENCES 2022; 4:72. [PMID: 35155992 PMCID: PMC8817158 DOI: 10.1007/s42452-022-04962-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
E-waste is the world’s fastest growing and most valuable domestic waste stream. The increasing production of e-waste is driving elevated levels of export from developed to developing countries. Although countries worldwide are actively recognising the issues around e-waste and introducing policies, legislation or regulations governing e-waste, a large fraction of e-waste, goes undocumented at its end-of-life. Much of the global e-waste is accumulating in open dumpsites in several African countries. Using available data, we calculate the total e-waste in Africa (locally produced plus imported e-waste) for 2019 to be between 5.8 and 3.4 metric tonnes (Mt). This is believed to be an underestimate, large data gaps exist, hindering more precise estimates. The data is further complicated by, sometimes intentional, differences in labelling and reporting between formal and intermittent informal importers. Based on the available data, the main African recipients of e-waste are Nigeria, Ghana, and Tanzania, with Kenya, Senegal and Egypt featuring as countries of concern. The lack of proper waste management in the recipient developing countries, leads to environmental contamination and human exposure. A coordinated, regional and global, approach is needed in tackling e-waste. Regulatory frameworks, together with monitoring and compliance mechanisms need to be developed, financed, and enforced.
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Song A, Li H, Liu M, Peng P, Hu J, Sheng G, Ying G. Polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PBDD/Fs) in soil around municipal solid waste incinerator: A comparison with polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PCDD/Fs). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 293:118563. [PMID: 34838709 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PBDD/Fs) and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PCDD/Fs) share similar toxicities and thermal origins, e.g., municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI). Recently, PBDD/Fs from MSWI attracted rising concern because their important precursors, i.e., brominated flame retardants (BFRs), were frequently found in various wastes for landfill or MSWI feedstock. So far, however, little is known about PBDD/Fs and their associated risks in the vicinal environments of MSWI. Here we analyzed PBDD/Fs and PCDD/Fs in 29 soil samples collected around a multiyear large-scale MSWI, and compared their spatial distributions, sources and risks. PBDD/Fs demonstrated comparable concentrations and toxic equivalent quantities (TEQs) to PCDD/Fs in these samples. Spatially, both the concentrations of PBDD/Fs and PCDD/Fs decreased outwards from the MSWI, and exhibited significant linear correlations with the distances from the MSWI in the southeast downwind soil, suggesting the influence of the MSWI on its vicinal soil environment. However, the existence of other dioxin sources concealed its influence beyond 6 km. PBDD/Fs in the soils were characterized by highly-brominated PBDFs, especially Octa-BDF, and their sources were diagnosed as the MSWI and diesel exhaust; PCDD/Fs, however, were dominated by highly-chlorinated PCDDs, particularly Octa-CDD, and were contributed individually or jointly by the MSWI, automobile exhaust and pentachlorophenol (PCP)/Na-PCP. The non-carcinogenic risks of dioxins in all the soil samples were acceptable, but their carcinogenic risks in 17% of the samples were unacceptable. These samples were all located close to the MSWI and highways, therefore, the land use of these two high-risk zones should be cautiously planed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimin Song
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Protection and Resources Utilization, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Huiru Li
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Mingyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Protection and Resources Utilization, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ping'an Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Protection and Resources Utilization, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Deep Earth Science, Guangzhou, 510640, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - JianFang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Protection and Resources Utilization, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Guoying Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Protection and Resources Utilization, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Guangguo Ying
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
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Meneses Quelal WO, Velázquez-Martí B, Ferrer Gisbert A. Separation of virgin plastic polymers and post-consumer mixed plastic waste by sinking-flotation technique. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:1364-1374. [PMID: 34350580 PMCID: PMC8724085 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15611-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The main objective of this research is to separate virgin polymers (PA, PC, PP, HDPE; PS, and ABS) and post-consumer plastic waste from municipal solid waste (MSW) using the sinking-flotation technique. Separation was carried out on a pilot scale in an 800-l useful volume container with 160 rpm agitation for one hour. Tap water, ethanol solutions, and sodium chloride at different concentrations were used as densification medium. Virgin polymers were separated into two groups: low-density (HDPE and PP) and high-density polymers groups (PS, ABS, PA, and PC). Polymers whose density was less than that of the medium solution floated to the surface, while those whose density was greater than those of the medium solution sank to the bottom. The experimental results showed that complete separation of HDPE from PP achieved 23% ethanol v/v, whereas high-density polymers separated up to 40% w/v sodium chloride. Polymer recovery ranged from 70 to 99.70%. In post-consumer recycled plastic waste, fractions of 29.6% polyolefins, 37.54% PS, 11% ABS, 8% PA, 12% PC PET, and PVC were obtained. Finally, cast plates were made of the post-consumer waste to properly identify the polymer type present in the separated fractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Washington Orlando Meneses Quelal
- Departamento de Ingeniería Rural and Agroalimentaria, Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, 46022, Camino de Vera s/n, Valencia, Spain
| | - Borja Velázquez-Martí
- Departamento de Ingeniería Rural and Agroalimentaria, Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, 46022, Camino de Vera s/n, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Andrés Ferrer Gisbert
- Departamento de Ingeniería Rural and Agroalimentaria, Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, 46022, Camino de Vera s/n, Valencia, Spain
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22
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He H, Li Y, Shen R, Shim H, Zeng Y, Zhao S, Lu Q, Mai B, Wang S. Environmental occurrence and remediation of emerging organohalides: A review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 290:118060. [PMID: 34479159 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
As replacements for "old" organohalides, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), "new" organohalides have been developed, including decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE), short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs), and perfluorobutyrate (PFBA). In the past decade, these emerging organohalides (EOHs) have been extensively produced as industrial and consumer products, resulting in their widespread environmental distribution. This review comprehensively summarizes the environmental occurrence and remediation methods for typical EOHs. Based on the data collected from 2015 to 2021, these EOHs are widespread in both abiotic (e.g., dust, air, soil, sediment, and water) and biotic (e.g., bird, fish, and human serum) matrices. A significant positive correlation was found between the estimated annual production amounts of EOHs and their environmental contamination levels, suggesting the prohibition of both production and usage of EOHs as a critical pollution-source control strategy. The strengths and weaknesses, as well as the future prospects of up-to-date remediation techniques, such as photodegradation, chemical oxidation, and biodegradation, are critically discussed. Of these remediation techniques, microbial reductive dehalogenation represents a promising in situ remediation method for removal of EOHs, such as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and halogenated flame retardants (HFRs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Haozheng He
- Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yiyang Li
- Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Rui Shen
- Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Hojae Shim
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau SAR, 999078, China
| | - Yanhong Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Protection and Resources Utilization, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Siyan Zhao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Qihong Lu
- Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Protection and Resources Utilization, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China.
| | - Bixian Mai
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Protection and Resources Utilization, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Shanquan Wang
- Environmental Microbiomics Research Center, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation Technology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
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Chen K, Huang T, Zhang X, Liu X, Huang Y, Wang L, Zhao Y, Gao H, Tao S, Liu J, Jian X, Gusev A, Ma J. The footprint of dioxins in globally traded pork meat. iScience 2021; 24:103255. [PMID: 34755094 PMCID: PMC8564055 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The bioaccumulation of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PCDD/Fs), known as dioxins, in fatty meat is one of primary pathways of entry into the human body, but levels of human exposure to dioxins in fatty meat subject to global trade are unknown. We show high dioxin estimated dietary intake (EDI) via pork consumption in Europe, the United States, and China, owing to stronger dioxin environmental contamination and high pork consumption in these countries. The dioxin risk transfer embodied in pork trade is mostly significant in high-latitude countries and regions of Canada, Russia, and Greenland because these regions with low dioxin environmental levels import large amounts of pork meat from more severely dioxin-contaminated Europe and the United States. We demonstrate that global pig feed trading decreases the exposure of pork consumers to dioxins via the import of feed from countries with low dioxin environmental contamination by pig breeding countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaijie Chen
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xiaodong Zhang
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xinrui Liu
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yufei Huang
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Linfei Wang
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yuan Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Hong Gao
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Shu Tao
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Junfeng Liu
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xiaohu Jian
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Alexey Gusev
- Meteorological Synthesizing Centre-East, Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution, Moscow, Russia
| | - Jianmin Ma
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.,Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
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24
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Issah I, Arko-Mensah J, Rozek LS, Zarins KR, Agyekum TP, Dwomoh D, Basu N, Batterman S, Robins TG, Fobil JN. Global DNA (LINE-1) methylation is associated with lead exposure and certain job tasks performed by electronic waste workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2021; 94:1931-1944. [PMID: 34148106 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-021-01733-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study assessed the associations between blood and urine levels of toxic metals; cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb), and methylation levels of the LINE-1 gene among e-waste and control populations in Ghana. METHODS The study enrolled 100 male e-waste workers and 51 all-male non-e-waste workers or controls. The concentrations of Cd and Pb were measured in blood and urine using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, while LINE1 methylation levels were assessed by pyrosequencing of bisulfite-converted DNA extracted from whole blood. Single and multiple metals linear regression models were used to determine the associations between metals and LINE1 DNA methylation. RESULTS Blood lead (BPb) and urine lead (UPb) showed higher median concentrations among the e-waste workers than the controls (76.82 µg/L vs 40.25 µg/L, p ≤ 0.001; and 6.89 µg/L vs 3.43 µg/L, p ≤ 0.001, respectively), whereas blood cadmium (BCd) concentration was lower in the e-waste workers compared to the controls (0.59 µg/L vs 0.81 µg/L, respectively, p = 0.003). There was no significant difference in LINE1 methylation between the e-waste and controls (85.16 ± 1.32% vs 85.17 ± 1.11%, p = 0.950). In our single metal linear regression models, BPb was significantly inversely associated with LINE1 methylation in the control group (βBPb = - 0.027, 95% CI - 0.045, - 0.010, p = 0.003). In addition, a weak association between BPb and LINE1 was observed in the multiple metals analysis in the e-waste worker group (βBPb = - 0.005, 95% CI - 0.011, 0.000, p = 0.058). CONCLUSION Continuous Pb exposure may interfere with LINE1 methylation, leading to epigenetic alterations, thus serving as an early epigenetic marker for future adverse health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Issah
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana.
| | - John Arko-Mensah
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Laura S Rozek
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Katie R Zarins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Thomas P Agyekum
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Duah Dwomoh
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Niladri Basu
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Stuart Batterman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Thomas G Robins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Julius N Fobil
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, P.O. Box LG13, Accra, Ghana
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25
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Rene ER, Sethurajan M, Kumar Ponnusamy V, Kumar G, Bao Dung TN, Brindhadevi K, Pugazhendhi A. Electronic waste generation, recycling and resource recovery: Technological perspectives and trends. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 416:125664. [PMID: 33838506 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The growing population and increased disposal of end-of-life (EoL) electrical and electronic products have caused serious concerns to the environment and human health. Electronic waste (e-waste) is a growing problem because the quantity and the rate at which it is generated has increased exponentially in the last 5 years. The rapid changes or upgradation in technologies, IT requirements for working or learning from home during COVID-19, manufacturers releasing new electronic gadgets and devices that serves the consumers comfort and a declension in services has contributed to an increase in the e-waste or waste of electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) generation rates. The current status of e-waste generation, handling procedures and regulatory directives in USA, EU, China, India, Vietnam and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are presented in this review. The recent developments in e-waste recycling methods/recovery of base and precious metals, the advantages and limitations of hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, biohydrometallurgy and pyrolysis are discussed. Considering the impediments in the present technologies, the extraction of valuable resources, i.e. precious metals, from e-waste using suitable biocatalysts shows promising applications. This review also stresses on the research needs to assess the economic effects of involving different unit operations/process industries for resource recovery, reuse and recycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eldon R Rene
- Department of Water Supply, Sanitation and Environmental Engineering, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, Westvest 7, Delft 2601DA, The Netherlands
| | - Manivannan Sethurajan
- Department of Water Supply, Sanitation and Environmental Engineering, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, Westvest 7, Delft 2601DA, The Netherlands
| | - Vinoth Kumar Ponnusamy
- Department of Medicinal and Applied Chemistry, and Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City 807, Taiwan
| | - Gopalakrishnan Kumar
- Institute of Chemistry, Bioscience and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Stavanger, Box 8600 Forus, 4036 Stavanger, Norway; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Thi Ngoc Bao Dung
- Faculty of Environment and Labour Safety, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Kathirvel Brindhadevi
- Faculty of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Arivalagan Pugazhendhi
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam; College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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26
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Lebbie TS, Moyebi OD, Asante KA, Fobil J, Brune-Drisse MN, Suk WA, Sly PD, Gorman J, Carpenter DO. E-Waste in Africa: A Serious Threat to the Health of Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:8488. [PMID: 34444234 PMCID: PMC8392572 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Waste electronic and electrical equipment (e-waste) consists of used and discarded electrical and electronic items ranging from refrigerators to cell phones and printed circuit boards. It is frequently moved from developed countries to developing countries where it is dismantled for valuable metals in informal settings, resulting in significant human exposure to toxic substances. E-waste is a major concern in Africa, with large sites in Ghana and Nigeria where imported e-waste is dismantled under unsafe conditions. However, as in many developing countries, used electronic and electrical devices are imported in large quantities because they are in great demand and are less expensive than new ones. Many of these used products are irreparable and are discarded with other solid waste to local landfills. These items are then often scavenged for the purpose of extracting valuable metals by heating and burning, incubating in acids and other methods. These activities pose significant health risks to workers and residents in communities near recycling sites. E-waste burning and dismantling activities are frequently undertaken at e-waste sites, often in or near homes. As a result, children and people living in the surrounding areas are exposed, even if they are not directly involved in the recycling. While toxic substances are dangerous to individuals at any age, children are more vulnerable as they are going through important developmental processes, and some adverse health impacts may have long-term impacts. We review the e-waste situation in Africa with a focus on threats to children's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamba S. Lebbie
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA; (T.S.L.); (O.D.M.)
| | - Omosehin D. Moyebi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA; (T.S.L.); (O.D.M.)
| | | | - Julius Fobil
- Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana;
| | - Marie Noel Brune-Drisse
- Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, World Organization, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - William A. Suk
- A World Health Organization Collaborating Center on Children’s Environmental Health, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA;
| | - Peter D. Sly
- A World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Children’s Health and the Environment, Child Health Research Center, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane 4101, Australia;
| | - Julia Gorman
- Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia;
| | - David O. Carpenter
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA; (T.S.L.); (O.D.M.)
- A World Health Organization Collaborating Center on Environmental Health, Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
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White KB, Kalina J, Scheringer M, Přibylová P, Kukučka P, Kohoutek J, Prokeš R, Klánová J. Temporal Trends of Persistent Organic Pollutants across Africa after a Decade of MONET Passive Air Sampling. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:9413-9424. [PMID: 33095578 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c03575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The Global Monitoring Plan of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) was established to generate long-term data necessary for evaluating the effectiveness of regulatory measures at a global scale. After a decade of passive air monitoring (2008-2019), MONET is the first network to produce sufficient data for the analysis of long-term temporal trends of POPs in the African atmosphere. This study reports concentrations of 20 POPs (aldrin, chlordane, chlordecone, DDT, dieldrin, endrin, endosulfan, HBCDD, HCB, HCHs, heptachlor, hexabromobiphenyl, mirex, PBDEs, PCBs, PCDDs, PCDFs, PeCB, PFOA, and PFOS) monitored in 9 countries (Congo, Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Mauritius, Morocco, Nigeria, and Sudan). As of January 1, 2019, concentrations were in the following ranges (pg/m3): 0.5-37.7 (∑6PCB), 0.006-0.724 (∑17PCDD/F), 0.05-5.5 (∑9PBDE), 0.6-11.3 (BDE 209), 0.1-1.8 (∑3HBCDD), 1.8-138 (∑6DDT), 0.1-24.3 (∑3endosulfan), 0.6-14.6 (∑4HCH), 9.1-26.4 (HCB), 13.8-18.2 (PeCB). Temporal trends indicate that concentrations of many POPs (PCBs, DDT, HCHs, endosulfan) have declined significantly over the past 10 years, though the rate was slow at some sites. Concentrations of other POPs such as PCDD/Fs and PBDEs have not changed significantly over the past decade and are in fact increasing at some sites, attributed to the prevalence of open burning of waste (particularly e-waste) across Africa. Modeled airflow back-trajectories suggest that the elevated concentrations at some sites are primarily due to sustained local emissions, while the low concentrations measured at Mt. Kenya represent the continental background level and are primarily influenced by long-range transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin B White
- RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Kalina
- RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Scheringer
- RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, ETH Zürich, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Petra Přibylová
- RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Kukučka
- RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Kohoutek
- RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Roman Prokeš
- RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Klánová
- RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
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28
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Yang L, Liu G, Shen J, Wang M, Yang Q, Zheng M. Environmental characteristics and formations of polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 152:106450. [PMID: 33684732 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PBDD/Fs) are emerging persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that have similar or higher toxicities than the notorious dioxins. Toxicities, formation mechanisms, and environmental fates of PBDD/Fs are lacking because accurate quantification, especially of higher brominated congeners, is challenging. PBDD/F analysis is difficult because of photolysis and thermal degradation and interference from polybrominated diphenyl ethers. Here, literatures on PBDD/F analysis and environmental occurrences are reviewed to improve our understanding of PBDD/F environmental pollution and human exposure levels. Although PBDD/Fs behave similarly to dioxins, different congener profiles between PBDD/Fs and dioxins in the environment indicates their different sources and formation mechanisms. Herein, potential sources and formation mechanisms of PBDD/Fs were critically discussed, and current knowledge gaps and future directions for PBDD/F research are highlighted. An understanding of PBDD/F formation pathways will allow for development of synergistic control strategies for PBDD/Fs, dioxins, and other dioxin-like POPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Guorui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China; School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310000, China; College of Resource and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jia Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Minxiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Qiuting Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Minghui Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, P.O. Box 2871, Beijing 100085, China; School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310000, China; Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China.
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Rautela R, Arya S, Vishwakarma S, Lee J, Kim KH, Kumar S. E-waste management and its effects on the environment and human health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 773:145623. [PMID: 33592459 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Challenges in managing electronic waste (E-waste) arise from a lack of technical skills, poor infrastructure, inadequate financial support, and inactive community engagement. This study provides a systematic review of efforts to overcome these challenges in the context of inappropriate recycling protocols of E-waste and their toxic effects on human health and the environment. An inventory of end-of-life electronic products, which can be established through the creation of an environment friendly regulatory regime for recycling, is essential for the proper control of E-waste. An approach has been articulated to help implement effective management of E-waste in both developed and developing countries. Enforcement of systematic management measures for E-waste in developing countries coupled with best practices is expected to minimize adverse impacts while helping maintain a sustainable and resilient environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Rautela
- CSIR- National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur 440 020, India; Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Shashi Arya
- CSIR- National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur 440 020, India; Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Shilpa Vishwakarma
- CSIR- National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur 440 020, India
| | - Jechan Lee
- Department of Environmental and Safety Engineering, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea; Department of Energy Systems Research, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Hyun Kim
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sunil Kumar
- CSIR- National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur 440 020, India; Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201 002, India.
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Environmental contamination and public health effects of electronic waste: an overview. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2021; 19:1209-1227. [PMID: 34150306 DOI: 10.1007/s40201-021-00654-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Purpose In recent years, electronic waste has become the fastest growing waste stream globally with potential deleterious environmental and public health effects from its hazardous constituents. This review aims at providing an up-to-date information on the environmental and public health effects of e- wastes, and also identify research gaps that could form basis of further innovative studies on this important subject. Methods We carried out literature survey using several search engines. All available literature which reported directly on environmental contamination of air, soil, and water by e-wastes, and their effects on exposed plants, animals, and humans were used in other to generate an updated information. Results High production volume coupled with indiscriminate disposal and informal recycling has made electronic waste (e-waste) to become a global public and environmental health issue. E-waste is made up of different hazardous substances such as heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants with the capacity to contaminate the environment if processed or recycled inappropriately. Humans and animals become exposed to e-waste constituents via ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact. Several health effects have been linked to e-wastes. The most susceptible were children, pregnant women, and workers in primitive recycling sites. Generation of e-waste is predicted to increase drastically in the next decade with the potential complex interactive effects of its constituents. Conclusion This review is an up-to-date assessment of studies and reports on e-waste environmental contamination and public health effects. The review has shown that e-waste contains constituents that caused adverse environmental effects and toxicity to the biota. However, there is an enormous data gap between exposure quantification and possible health effects. More studies are needed to elucidate and provide holistic information on environmental and public health dangers posed by e-waste constituents.
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Physio-Chemical Characterization of Biochar, Compost and Co-Composted Biochar Derived from Green Waste. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13094628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Organic wastes are naturally biodegradable, but they contribute to environmental pollution and management issues. Composting and pyrolysis are widely used technologies for recycling these wastes into valuable organic products for soil health and crop production. In the current study, fruits vegetables waste (FVW) was converted to biochar, compost, and co-composted biochar. The microcrystal structure, functional groups, surface morphology, and nutrient contents of organic materials were investigated by XRD, FTIR, SEM-EDS, AAS, multi C-N analyzer, and ICP-OES techniques. Heavy metals contamination was not detected in the biomass used for pyrolysis and compost preparation. FVW had an acidic pH (5.92), while biochar, compost, and co-composted biochar had an alkaline pH. Total macronutrient (K, Na, S) and micronutrient (Cu, Fe) concentrations were higher in compost and co-composted biochar, with the exception of K, which was higher in biochar. Biochar had the highest surface area (4.99 m2g), followed by FVW, compost, and co-composted biochar. Co-composted biochar had a porous structure. Si, Ca, and Al contents were common in all organic materials, while P, K, Mg, and S were found with lower concentrations in both biochar and compost. Iron was only found in compost and co-composted biochar. Quartz, sylvite, and calcite were common minerals found in all organic treatments. Biochar contained more aromatic carbon ring structure C=C/C=O and aromatic C-H bending as compared to FVW and compost, thus, making biochar a stable carbon rich material suitable for soil carbon sequestration.
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Acquah AA, D’Souza C, Martin BJ, Arko-Mensah J, Dwomoh D, Nti AAA, Kwarteng L, Takyi SA, Basu N, Quakyi IA, Robins TG, Fobil JN. Musculoskeletal Disorder Symptoms among Workers at an Informal Electronic-Waste Recycling Site in Agbogbloshie, Ghana. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:2055. [PMID: 33669889 PMCID: PMC7923259 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18042055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Informal recycling of electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) has myriad environmental and occupational health consequences, though information about the chronic musculoskeletal health effects on workers is limited. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and intensity of self-reported musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) symptoms among e-waste workers at Agbogbloshie in Ghana-the largest informal e-waste dumpsite in West Africa-relative to workers not engaged in e-waste recycling. A standardized musculoskeletal discomfort questionnaire was administered to 176 e-waste workers (73 collectors, 82 dismantlers, and 21 burners) and 41 workers in a reference group. The number of body parts with musculoskeletal discomfort were 1.62 and 1.39 times higher for collectors and dismantlers than burners, respectively. A 1-week discomfort prevalence was highest for collectors (91.8%) followed by dismantlers (89%), burners (81%), and the reference group (70.7%). The discomfort prevalence for e-waste workers was highest in the lower back (65.9%), shoulders (37.5%), and knees (37.5%). Whole-body pain scores (mean ± SE) were higher for collectors (83.7 ± 10.6) than dismantlers (45.5 ± 7.6), burners (34.0 ± 9.1), and the reference group (26.4 ± 5.9). Differences in prevalence, location, and intensity of MSD symptoms by the e-waste job category suggest specific work-related morbidity. Symptom prevalence and intensity call attention to the high risk for MSDs and work disability among informal e-waste workers, particularly collectors and dismantlers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augustine A. Acquah
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Clive D’Souza
- Center for Ergonomics, Department of Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2117, USA; (C.D.); (B.J.M.)
| | - Bernard J. Martin
- Center for Ergonomics, Department of Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2117, USA; (C.D.); (B.J.M.)
| | - John Arko-Mensah
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Duah Dwomoh
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Afua Asabea Amoabeng Nti
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Lawrencia Kwarteng
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Sylvia A. Takyi
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Niladri Basu
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montréal, QC H9X 3V9, Canada;
| | - Isabella A. Quakyi
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
| | - Thomas G. Robins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA;
| | - Julius N. Fobil
- Department of Biological Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana; (J.A.-M.); (D.D.); (A.A.A.N.); (L.K.); (S.A.T.); (I.A.Q.); (J.N.F.)
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Suzuki G, Matsukami H, Michinaka C, Hashimoto S, Nakayama K, Sakai SI. Emission of Dioxin-like Compounds and Flame Retardants from Commercial Facilities Handling Deca-BDE and Their Downstream Sewage Treatment Plants. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:2324-2335. [PMID: 33440927 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c06359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Commercial mixtures of decabromodiphenyl ether (deca-BDE), a brominated flame retardant, contain not only polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs, mainly BDE-209) as the main component but also dioxin-like compounds (DLCs) such as polybrominated dibenzofurans (PBDFs). Deca-BDE handling facilities (DHFs) and sewage treatment plants receiving effluent from DHFs are point sources of DLC and flame retardant (FR) pollution. Here, we examined their emission in Japan. For DHF effluents, DLCs detected by the dioxin-responsive chemically activated luciferase expression (DR-CALUX) assay were 1.3-890 pg TCDD-EQ/L (median 46 pg TCDD-EQ/L), while PBDEs and other FRs were <2.0-110,000 ng/L (610 ng/L) and 150-4,800,000 ng/L (41,000 ng/L). Risk quotients based on predicted no-effect concentrations suggested that DLCs, decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE), tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) isocyanurate (TDBP-TAZTO), and bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate) (BPA-BDPP) present significant risks for aquatic organisms. The concentrations of PBDFs, which are impurities in deca-BDE, were expected to decrease with the inclusion of deca-BDE in the Stockholm Convention list of persistent organic pollutants (May 2017). However, DLCs other than PBDFs and alternative FRs such as DBDPE, TDBP-TAZTO, and BPA-BDPP are likely still discharged. Additional findings indicate that strong (e.g., DLCs, DBDPE, and BPA-BDPP), but not weak (e.g., TDBP-TAZTO), hydrophobic compounds are sufficiently removed by current wastewater treatment processes in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Go Suzuki
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Hidenori Matsukami
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Chieko Michinaka
- Center for Material Cycles and Waste Management Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Shunji Hashimoto
- Center for Environmental Measurement and Analysis, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Kei Nakayama
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies, Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichi Sakai
- Environment Preservation Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
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Kojima Y, Fujimori T, Goto A, Shiota K, Kunisue T, Takaoka M. Bromination of Carbon and Formation of PBDD/Fs by Copper Bromide in Oxidative Thermal Process. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 403:123878. [PMID: 33264949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Brominated aromatic compounds are unintentionally generated during various thermal processes, including municipal solid waste incineration, electric-waste open burning, and secondary copper smelting. Copper (Cu) plays an important role in the formation of brominated aromatic compounds. In the present study, the thermochemical behaviors of Cu and Br in model samples, including copper bromide (CuBr2) and activated carbon, were studied using in situ X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) and thermogravimetry. Quantification of polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans (PBDD/Fs) was also conducted by gas chromatograph-high resolution mass spectrometer. Three key reactions were identified: (i) the reduction of CuBr2 to CuBr (room temperature to 300 °C), (ii) the generation of Br bonded with aromatic carbon (150-350 °C), and (iii) the oxidation of copper (>350 °C). Maximum amounts of PBDD/Fs were found in residual solid phase after heating at 300 °C. The analytical results indicated the direct bromination of aromatic carbon by the debromination of copper bromides (I, II) and that CuBr and CuO acted as catalysts in the oxidation of the carbon matrix. The bromination mechanisms revealed in this study are essential to the de novo formation of PBDD/Fs and other brominated aromatic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Kojima
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Katsura, Nisikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8540, Japan
| | - Takashi Fujimori
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Katsura, Nisikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8540, Japan; Department of Global Ecology, Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Japan.
| | - Akitoshi Goto
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 2-5, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
| | - Kenji Shiota
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Katsura, Nisikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8540, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kunisue
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 2-5, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
| | - Masaki Takaoka
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Katsura, Nisikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8540, Japan; Department of Global Ecology, Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Japan
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Chen Z, Luo X, Zeng Y, Tan S, Guo J, Xu Z. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers in indoor air from two typical E-waste recycling workshops in Southern China: Emission, size-distribution, gas-particle partitioning, and exposure assessment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 402:123667. [PMID: 33254748 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The emission characteristics of respirable particulate matter (PM10), and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) size distribution, gas-particle partitioning and occupational exposure in two e-waste recycling workshops (manual and thermal dismantling workshop: ManuDW and TherDW) were investigated. The PM10 mass concentration was higher but the number concentration was lower in the ManuDW than in the TherDW. The gaseous phase PBDE concentration (40.5 ng/m3) was higher in the ManuDW than in the TherDW (10.6 ng/m3) while the particulate phase PBDE concentration was just reverse (57.7 vs 156 ng/m3). The size distribution of particle was similar for two workshops but the size distribution of particle-bound PBDE exhibited remarkable differences. BDE-209 was the dominant congener in particle-bound PBDE in the TherDW, while Tri-, Tetra-, and Deca-BDE were the three most abundant homologues in the ManuDW. The size distribution of particle-bound PBDE homologue profile in the ManuDW was also distinct from that in the TherDW. The PBDE exposure doses were 13.9 and 15.3 ng/kg/day in the ManuDW and the TherDW, far lower than reference doses. Gaseous and particle phase have same contribution to the total doses in the ManuDW but the exposure doses in the TherDW mainly come from the particle phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaojun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China.
| | - Yuan Zeng
- School of Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shufei Tan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Jie Guo
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Zhenming Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
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Zhou Y, Sun J, Wang L, Zhu G, Li M, Liu J, Li Z, Gong H, Wu C, Yin G. Multiple classes of chemical contaminants in soil from an e-waste disposal site in China: Occurrence and spatial distribution. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 752:141924. [PMID: 32898803 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
E-waste recycling is well known for releasing halogenated organic compounds (HOCs) and heavy metals. This study investigated the occurrence and distribution of traditional and novel classes of contaminants, including chlorinated, brominated, and mixed halogenated dibenzo-p-dioxins/dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs, PBDD/Fs, PXDD/Fs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polyhalogenated carbazoles (PHCZs), in soil from an e-waste disposal site in Hangzhou. PBDEs were the most abundant, at 343-69306 ng kg-1, followed by PHCZs (896-41,362 ng kg-1), PCDD/Fs (349-19,396 ng kg-1), PCBs (51.3-1834 ng kg-1), PBDD/Fs (2.99-524 ng kg-1) and PXDD/Fs (0.104-21.2 ng kg-1). The detected target compound concentrations were generally lower than those reported in the literature for informal e-waste sites. Nevertheless, they can serve as a basis of information for evaluation and subsequent control. The toxic equivalent (TEQ) contributions from these contaminants (except PBDEs) decreased as follows: PCDD/Fs > PXDD/Fs > PHCZs > PCBs > PBDD/Fs. ΣDioxins (PCDD/Fs + PBDD/Fs + PXDD/Fs) accounted for 47.7%-97.2% of the total TEQs in the soil. OCDD, 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpBDF and OBDF were the dominant congeners, mainly derived from combustion and transport because of their low saturated vapor pressure. PXDFs were more abundant than PXDDs, and homologue profiles suggested a similar formation mechanism for PXDFs and PBDFs involving successive Br-to-Cl exchange. PHCZs were reported in soil from an e-waste disposal area for the first time, and their concentrations were several orders of magnitude higher than those of the other contaminants. Although the risk of human exposure in this study was estimated to be lower than the values recommended by the WHO (1-4 pg TEQ/kg bw/day), health implications still exist, and further investigations are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanxiao Zhou
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Junjun Sun
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Guohua Zhu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Mufei Li
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Jinsong Liu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou 310012, China.
| | - Zuguang Li
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China.
| | - Hongping Gong
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Chenwang Wu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Ecological and Environmental Monitoring, Forewarning and Quality Control, Zhejiang Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Hangzhou 310012, China
| | - Ge Yin
- Shimadzu (China) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 200233, China
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Bruce-Vanderpuije P, Megson D, Jones GR, Jobst K, Reiner E, Clarke E, Adu-Kumi S, Gardella JA. Infant dietary exposure to dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dlPCBs), polybrominated and mixed halogenated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PBDD/Fs and PXDD/Fs) in milk samples of lactating mothers in Accra, Ghana. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:128156. [PMID: 33297135 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In this study, polybrominated and mixed halogenated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PBDD/Fs and PXDD/Fs), and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (dlPCBs) were quantified in 24 human milk samples of first-time lactating mothers from Greater Accra region in Ghana. The aims of the study were to determine the concentrations and toxic equivalent concentrations of PBDD/F, PXDD/F and dlPCBs in human milk, and to estimate an infant's daily intake. The samples were analysed for 12 dioxin-like PCBs, 7 congeners of 2,3,7,8-polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PBDD/Fs), and 7 congeners of 2,3,7,8-mixed halogenated dioxins and furans (PXDD/Fs, where X = Br/Cl). The mean concentrations in human milk ranged from 0.15 to 212.9 pg/g lipid for dlPCB congeners (mean TEQ: 1.67 pg WHO2005-TEQ/g lipid). Lesser concentrations for 2,3,7,8-PXDD/Fs (and PBDD/Fs congeners) ranged between <0.01-1.67 pg/g lipid, with a total mean tentative TEQ of 0.56 pg WHO2005-TEQ/g lipid. For an infant of average weight 7 kg, consuming an estimated volume of 600 mL human milk, the estimated average daily intake of dlPCBs in 21 human milk samples was 4.95 pg TEQ/kg bw/day; contributions from dlPCBs, PXDD/Fs and PBDD/Fs resulted in an average estimated daily intake of 6.56 pg TEQ/kg bw/day. The results obtained in this study, although lower than infant dietary intake estimates in human milk from industrialized countries, exceeded the recommended safety standards of 1 pg TEQ/kg bw/day and 1-4 pg TEQ/kg bw/day from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and the World Health Organization (WHO), respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pennante Bruce-Vanderpuije
- Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA; CSIR Water Research Institute, P. O. Box AH 38, Achimota, Accra, Ghana
| | - David Megson
- School of Science and the Environment, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK; Chemistry Matters Inc., Suite 405, 104-1240 Kensington Road NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 3P7, Canada
| | | | - Karl Jobst
- Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Laboratory Services Branch, Toronto, ON, M9P 3V6, Canada
| | - Eric Reiner
- Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Laboratory Services Branch, Toronto, ON, M9P 3V6, Canada
| | - Edith Clarke
- Occupational and Environmental Health Unit, Ministry of Health/Ghana Health Service, Ghana
| | - Sam Adu-Kumi
- Environmental Protection Agency, P. O. Box MB 326, Ministries Post Office, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph A Gardella
- Department of Chemistry, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA.
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Altarawneh M, Saeed A, Siddique K, Jansson S, Dlugogorski BZ. Formation of polybrominated dibenzofurans (PBDFs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) from oxidation of brominated flame retardants (BFRs). JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 400:123166. [PMID: 32574882 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Brominated aromatic rings constitute main structural entities in virtually all commercially deployed brominated flame retardants (BFRs). Oxidative decomposition of BFRs liberates appreciable quantities of bromobenzenes (BBzs). This contribution reports experimental measurements for the generation of notorious polybrominated dibenzofurans (PBDFs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) from oxidation of monobromobenzene (MBBz). In the light of developed product profiles, we map out reaction pathways and report kinetic parameters for PBDFs and PBDEs formation from coupling reactions of MBBz molecule and its derived ortho-bromophenoxy (o-BPhxy) radical using quantum chemical calculations. The identification and quantitation of product species involve the use of gas chromatograph - triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (GC-QQQMS) operating in the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. Bimolecular reactions of MBBz and o-BPhxy result in the generation of twelve pre-PBDF intermediates, of which four can also serve as building blocks for the synthesis of PBDEs. These four intermediates are denoted as pre-PBDE/pre-PBDF, with the remaining eight symbolised as pre-PBDF. The resonance-stabilised structure of the o-BPhxy radical accumulates more spin density character on its phenoxy O atom (30.9 %) in reference to ortho-C and para-C sites. Thus, the formation of the pre-PBDE/pre-PBDF structures via O/o-C couplings advances faster as it requires lower activation enthalpies (79.2 - 84.9 kJ mol-1) than the pre-PBDF moieties, which arise via pairing reactions involving o-C(H or Br)/o-C(H or Br) sites (97.2 - 180.2 kJ mol-1). Kinetic analysis indicates that, the O/o-C pre-PBDE/pre-PBDF adducts self-eject the out-of-plane H atoms to produce PBDEs, rather than undergo a three-step mechanism forming PBDFs. However, experimental measurements demonstrate PBDEs appearing in lower yields as compared to those of PBDFs; presumably due to H- and Br-induced conversion of the PBDEs into PBDFs following a simple ring-closure reaction. High reaction temperatures facilitate loss of ortho Br atom from PBDEs, followed by cyclisation step to generate PBDFs. PBDFs are observed in a narrow temperature range of 700-850 °C, whereas PBDEs form between 550-850 °C. Since formation mechanisms of PBDFs and polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PBDDs) are typically only sensitive to the bromination at ortho positions, the results reported herein apply also to higher brominated isomers of BBzs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammednoor Altarawneh
- United Arab Emirates University, Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Al-Ain, 15551, United Arab Emirates; Murdoch University, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education (SHEE), WA, 6150, Australia.
| | - Anam Saeed
- Murdoch University, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education (SHEE), WA, 6150, Australia; University of Engineering and Technology Lahore, Chemical Engineering Department, 54890, Pakistan
| | - Kamal Siddique
- Murdoch University, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education (SHEE), WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Stina Jansson
- Umeå University Department of Chemistry, SE-901 87, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Bogdan Z Dlugogorski
- Charles Darwin University, Energy and Resources Institute, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia.
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Chen D, Faibil D, Agyemang M. Evaluating critical barriers and pathways to implementation of e-waste formalization management systems in Ghana: a hybrid BWM and fuzzy TOPSIS approach. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:44561-44584. [PMID: 32772292 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10360-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The majority of developing countries are facing enormous challenges in implementing sustainable waste electrical and electronic equipment (e-waste) management systems. Informal e-waste management practices in Ghana have become a critical challenge to the government and the various stakeholders owing to its environmental and health impacts. However, the effort to implement e-waste formalization management practices has been threatened with many barriers. This study aims to identify and evaluate barriers and pathways to the implementation of e-waste formalization management systems in Ghana. A three-phase methodology consisting of the Delphi method, the hybrid best-worst method and the fuzzy TOPSIS technique is employed. The first phase involves extensive literature review and the use of the Delphi method to identify barriers, pathways, and data collection for e-waste formalization. In the second phase, the best-worst method was employed to analyze the relative weight and ranking of the barriers. The third phase involves the application of fuzzy TOPSIS to rank and prioritize pathways to e-waste formalization systems. Fuzzy logic was applied to handle the subjectivity of decision-makers' preferences. A sensitivity analysis was carried out to check the robustness of the framework and address any effect of bias. The outcome of the study indicates that economic and financial limitations are the most significant barriers to e-waste formalization. "Setting up resourced environmental government agencies for effective monitoring and auditing at the regional levels for appropriate e-waste management practices" is the most prominent pathway. The present study can potentially inform policy makers to develop systematic and strategic policies for the implementation of e-waste formalization management systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehu Chen
- School of Management and Economics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Daniel Faibil
- School of Management and Economics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Martin Agyemang
- New Huadu Business School, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
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Mahfouz S, Mansour G, Murphy DJ, Hanano A. Dioxin impacts on lipid metabolism of soil microbes: towards effective detection and bioassessment strategies. BIORESOUR BIOPROCESS 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s40643-020-00347-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractDioxins are the most toxic known environmental pollutants and are mainly formed by human activities. Due to their structural stability, dioxins persist for extended periods and can be transported over long distances from their emission sources. Thus, dioxins can be accumulated to considerable levels in both human and animal food chains. Along with sediments, soils are considered the most important reservoirs of dioxins. Soil microorganisms are therefore highly exposed to dioxins, leading to a range of biological responses that can impact the diversity, genetics and functional of such microbial communities. Dioxins are very hydrophobic with a high affinity to lipidic macromolecules in exposed organisms, including microbes. This review summarizes the genetic, molecular and biochemical impacts of dioxins on the lipid metabolism of soil microbial communities and especially examines modifications in the composition and architecture of cell membranes. This will provide a useful scientific benchmark for future attempts at soil ecological risk assessment, as well as in identifying potential dioxin-specific-responsive lipid biomarkers. Finally, potential uses of lipid-sequestering microorganisms as a part of biotechnological approaches to the bio-management of environmental contamination with dioxins are discussed.
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Ali W, Mao K, Zhang H, Junaid M, Xu N, Rasool A, Feng X, Yang Z. Comprehensive review of the basic chemical behaviours, sources, processes, and endpoints of trace element contamination in paddy soil-rice systems in rice-growing countries. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 397:122720. [PMID: 32387828 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.122720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Rice is the leading staple food for more than half of the world's population, and approximately 160 million hectares of agricultural area worldwide are under rice cultivation. Therefore, it is essential to fulfil the global demand for rice while maintaining food safety. Rice acts as a sink for potentially toxic metals such as arsenic (As), selenium (Se), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr) in paddy soil-rice systems due to the natural and anthropogenic sources of these metals that have developed in the last few decades. This review summarizes the sources and basic chemical behaviours of these trace elements in the soil system and their contamination status, uptake, translocation, and accumulation mechanisms in paddy soil-rice systems in major rice-growing countries. Several human health threats are significantly associated with these toxic and potentially toxic metals not only due to their presence in the environment (i.e., the soil, water, and air) but also due to the uptake and translocation of these metals via different transporters. Elevated concentrations of these metals are toxic to plants, animals, and even humans that consume them regularly, and the uniform deposition of metals causes a severe risk of bioaccumulation. Furthermore, the contamination of rice in the global rice trade makes this a critical problem of worldwide concern. Therefore, the global consumption of contaminated rice causes severe human health effects that require rapid action. Finally, this review also summarizes the available management/remediation measures and future research directions for addressing this critical issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waqar Ali
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kang Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China.
| | - Muhammad Junaid
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Nan Xu
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Atta Rasool
- Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS University, Islamabad Vehari Campus, Vehari 61100, Pakistan
| | - Xinbin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China
| | - Zhugen Yang
- Cranfield Water Science Institute, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, United Kingdom
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Purchase D, Abbasi G, Bisschop L, Chatterjee D, Ekberg C, Ermolin M, Fedotov P, Garelick H, Isimekhai K, Kandile NG, Lundström M, Matharu A, Miller BW, Pineda A, Popoola OE, Retegan T, Ruedel H, Serpe A, Sheva Y, Surati KR, Walsh F, Wilson BP, Wong MH. Global occurrence, chemical properties, and ecological impacts of e-wastes (IUPAC Technical Report). PURE APPL CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.1515/pac-2019-0502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
The waste stream of obsolete electronic equipment grows exponentially, creating a worldwide pollution and resource problem. Electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) comprises a heterogeneous mix of glass, plastics (including flame retardants and other additives), metals (including rare Earth elements), and metalloids. The e-waste issue is complex and multi-faceted. In examining the different aspects of e-waste, informal recycling in developing countries has been identified as a primary concern, due to widespread illegal shipments; weak environmental, as well as health and safety, regulations; lack of technology; and inadequate waste treatment structure. For example, Nigeria, Ghana, India, Pakistan, and China have all been identified as hotspots for the disposal of e-waste. This article presents a critical examination on the chemical nature of e-waste and the resulting environmental impacts on, for example, microbial biodiversity, flora, and fauna in e-waste recycling sites around the world. It highlights the different types of risk assessment approaches required when evaluating the ecological impact of e-waste. Additionally, it presents examples of chemistry playing a role in potential solutions. The information presented here will be informative to relevant stakeholders seeking to devise integrated management strategies to tackle this global environmental concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Purchase
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology , Middlesex University , The Burroughs , London NW4 4BT , UK
| | | | - Lieselot Bisschop
- Erasmus Initiative on Dynamics of Inclusive Prosperity & Erasmus School of Law , Erasmus University Rotterdam , P.O. Box 1738 – 3000 DR , Rotterdam , Netherlands
| | - Debashish Chatterjee
- Faculty of Analytical Chemistry , University of Kalyani , Kalyani , Nadia , 741235 , India
| | - Christian Ekberg
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nuclear Chemistry and Industrial Materials Recycling , Chalmers University of Technology , SE-41296 , Göteborg , Sweden
| | - Mikhail Ermolin
- National University of Science and Technology “MISiS” , 4 Leninsky Prospect , Moscow , 119049 , Russia
| | - Petr Fedotov
- V.I. Vernadsky Institute of Geochemistry and Analytical Chemistry , Russian Academy of Sciences , 19 Kosygin Street , Moscow , 119991 , Russia
| | - Hemda Garelick
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology , Middlesex University , The Burroughs , London NW4 4BT , UK
| | - Khadijah Isimekhai
- Ateda Ventures Limited , P.P. Box 13394 , Benin City , Edo State , Nigeria
| | - Nadia G. Kandile
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Women , Ain Shams University , Heliopolis , 11757 , Cairo , Egypt
| | - Mari Lundström
- Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering (CMET), School of Chemical Engineering , Aalto University , P.O. Box 16200 , AALTO , Finland
| | - Avtar Matharu
- Green Chemistry Centre of Excellence, Department of Chemistry , University of York , York , YO10 5DD , UK
| | | | - Antonio Pineda
- Departamento de Química Orgánica , Universidad de Córdoba, Edificio Marie Curie (C-3), Ctra Nnal IVa, Km 396 , Córdoba , E-14014 , Spain
| | - Oluseun E. Popoola
- Department of Chemical Science , Yaba College of Technology , Lagos , Nigeria
| | - Teodora Retegan
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nuclear Chemistry and Industrial Materials Recycling , Chalmers University of Technology , SE-41296 , Göteborg , Sweden
| | - Heinz Ruedel
- Department Environmental Specimen Bank and Elemental Analysis , Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (Fraunhofer IME) , Schmallenberg , 57392 , Germany
| | - Angela Serpe
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture (DICAAR) and INSTM Unit , University of Cagliari and Environmental Geology and Geoengineering Institute of the National Research Council (IGAG-CNR) , Via Marengo 2 , Cagliari , 09123 , Italy
| | | | - Kiran R. Surati
- Department of Chemistry , Sardar Patel University , Vallabh Vidyanagar , Anand , Gujarat , 388120 , India
| | - Fiona Walsh
- Maynooth University , Maynooth , Co Kildare , Ireland
| | - Benjamin P. Wilson
- Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering (CMET), School of Chemical Engineering , Aalto University , P.O. Box 16200 , AALTO , Finland
| | - Ming Hung Wong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control , Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China; Consortium on Health, Environment, Education and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong , Tai Po , Hong Kong , China
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Ismail H, Hanafiah MM. A review of sustainable e-waste generation and management: Present and future perspectives. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2020; 264:110495. [PMID: 32250915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.110495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Studies on sustainable management of waste from electrical and electronic equipment (or e-waste) have gained increasing attention from researchers around the world in recent years, with investigations into various aspects of e-waste management were investigated. Studies on e-waste generation by previous papers have been reviewed to provide an overview of the current research progress and recommendations for future research. The relevant existing studies were collected from various databases. Using content analysis, three main aspects of the existing studies were evaluated: the distribution and trends of the publications, the scope and boundaries of the studies, and the current research practices and research applications. Although there was a significant increasing trend of the amount of research on the evaluation of e-waste generation, however, the number of publications based on the countries of origin was still small. Another limitation was found related to the differences in the selection of research subjects and the level of analysis resulted in variations in the scopes and boundaries of the existing studies. Various other research areas were investigated further based on their research findings, but the analysis of various methodological aspects was complicated due to the increasing number of newly developed methodologies and the lack of comprehensive and up-to-date reviews on this research area. Additionally, there was also a need to evaluate emerging and/or older technology, which led electrical appliances to be overlooked. We found that comprehensive and up-to-date reviews of the methodological aspects of e-waste generation are still lacking. Based on the research gaps and limitations discussed, recommendations for future research were made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haikal Ismail
- Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600, UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia; School of Technology Management and Logistics, College of Business, Universiti Utara Malaysia, 06010, Sintok, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Marlia M Hanafiah
- Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600, UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia; Centre for Tropical Climate Change System, Institute of Climate Change, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600, UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Dai Q, Xu X, Eskenazi B, Asante KA, Chen A, Fobil J, Bergman Å, Brennan L, Sly PD, Nnorom IC, Pascale A, Wang Q, Zeng EY, Zeng Z, Landrigan PJ, Bruné Drisse MN, Huo X. Severe dioxin-like compound (DLC) contamination in e-waste recycling areas: An under-recognized threat to local health. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 139:105731. [PMID: 32315892 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) burning and recycling activities have become one of the main emission sources of dioxin-like compounds (DLCs). Workers involved in e-waste recycling operations and residents living near e-waste recycling sites (EWRS) are exposed to high levels of DLCs. Epidemiological and experimental in vivo studies have reported a range of interconnected responses in multiple systems with DLC exposure. However, due to the compositional complexity of DLCs and difficulties in assessing mixture effects of the complex mixture of e-waste-related contaminants, there are few studies concerning human health outcomes related to DLC exposure at informal EWRS. In this paper, we have reviewed the environmental levels and body burdens of DLCs at EWRS and compared them with the levels reported to be associated with observable adverse effects to assess the health risks of DLC exposure at EWRS. In general, DLC concentrations at EWRS of many countries have been decreasing in recent years due to stricter regulations on e-waste recycling activities, but the contamination status is still severe. Comparison with available data from industrial sites and well-known highly DLC contaminated areas shows that high levels of DLCs derived from crude e-waste recycling processes lead to elevated body burdens. The DLC levels in human blood and breast milk at EWRS are higher than those reported in some epidemiological studies that are related to various health impacts. The estimated total daily intakes of DLCs for people in EWRS far exceed the WHO recommended total daily intake limit. It can be inferred that people living in EWRS with high DLC contamination have higher health risks. Therefore, more well-designed epidemiological studies are urgently needed to focus on the health effects of DLC pollution in EWRS. Continuous monitoring of the temporal trends of DLC levels in EWRS after actions is of highest importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyuan Dai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, China
| | - Brenda Eskenazi
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, USA
| | | | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Julius Fobil
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Ghana
| | - Åke Bergman
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, Sweden; Department of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Sweden; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, China
| | - Lesley Brennan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Alberta, Canada
| | - Peter D Sly
- Child Health Research Centre, University of Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Antonio Pascale
- Department of Toxicology, University of the Republic, Uruguay
| | - Qihua Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, China
| | - Eddy Y Zeng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, China
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, China
| | | | - Marie-Noel Bruné Drisse
- Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Xia Huo
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, China.
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Singh N, Duan H, Tang Y. Toxicity evaluation of E-waste plastics and potential repercussions for human health. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 137:105559. [PMID: 32062437 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
At present, waste mobile phone is considered to be one of the fastest-growing obsolete items in the stream of electronic waste (e-waste). Toxic substances such as heavy metals and brominated flame retardants (BFRs) have been widely added to plastics used in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). The recent technological revolution in electronic appliances combined with high and growing consumption has caused a huge generation of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Therefore, e-waste plastics are considered to be one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally. In this study, we examined the hazardous substances in the plastic components of waste mobile phones and then applied the USEtox life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) model to determine the impacts on human health. Specifically, various plastic parts separated from waste mobile phones (n = 20) were collected and then, we used standard tests to characterize the heavy metals and brominated flame retardants. The mean and range of the results are 2207.7 μg/kg (503.9-11569.9 μg/kg) for Pb, 91.6 μg/kg (8.8-464.4 μg/kg) for Cd, 13.7 μg/kg (1.6-58.9 μg/kg) for Be, 7203.3 μg/kg (117-69813 μg/kg) for Sb, 471.3 μg/kg (143.4-2351.3 μg/kg) for As, 1.5 mg/kg (2.1-12.5 mg/kg) for Hg and 523.7 mg/kg (27.1-3859 mg/kg) for Cr. The BFRs - a sum Polybrominated Biphenyls, Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers and Hexabromocyclododecane - were not detected except for two samples, which was an average of 234.5 μg/kg for nona-BDE and deca-BDE. The total bromine (Br) concentration varied from 0 to 471 mg/kg (average value of 87.9 mg/kg) , while Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBP-A) showed an average concentration of 214.3 μg/kg. In the case of potential human health risks, Hg contributed the major risk for carcinogens and non-cancer disease in the plastics, but the contribution of Pb was also significant. In the case of eco-toxicity, Cr posed the most significant risks in the plastics. Overall, the results show that the toxic substances are below the limit values of substances regulated in the RoHS Directive in China and Europe. However, the results of LCIA highlight the growing importance to avoid the open burning practices of e-waste plastics that contain Hg, Pb, Cr ad Sb. Additionally, the results set a new database for the e-waste plastics recycling industry and provide information for ecodesign in EEE production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narendra Singh
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; School of Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Huabo Duan
- School of Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Yuanyuan Tang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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46
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Hahladakis JN. Delineating and preventing plastic waste leakage in the marine and terrestrial environment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:12830-12837. [PMID: 32124287 PMCID: PMC7136316 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-08139-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Plastics are nowadays considered to be the workhorse material of our modern society with an ubiquitous presence that has increased manifold over the past 60 years, providing several benefits to the global economy. However, inappropriate and/or uncontrolled disposal practices, poor waste management infrastructure and application of insufficient recycling technologies, coupled with a lack of public awareness and incentives, have rendered plastic waste omnipresent, littering both the marine and the terrestrial environment with multi-faceted impacts. This short communication/commentary aims at delineating the plastic litter global challenge providing, at the same time, scientific views and perspectives on properly dealing with this material type, both upstream and downstream.
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Affiliation(s)
- John N Hahladakis
- Center for Sustainable Development, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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Moeckel C, Breivik K, Nøst TH, Sankoh A, Jones KC, Sweetman A. Soil pollution at a major West African E-waste recycling site: Contamination pathways and implications for potential mitigation strategies. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 137:105563. [PMID: 32106045 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Organic contaminants (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and chlorinated paraffins (CPs)) and heavy metals and metalloids (Ag, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Sb, Zn) were analysed in surface soil samples from the Agbogbloshie e-waste processing and dumping site in Accra (Ghana). In order to identify which of the pollutants are likely to be linked specifically to handling of e-waste, samples were also collected from the Kingtom general waste site in Freetown (Sierra Leone). The results were compared using principal component analyses (PCA). PBDE congeners found in technical octa-BDE mixtures, highly chlorinated PCBs and several heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Ni, Cd, Ag and Hg) showed elevated concentrations in the soils that are likely due to contamination by e-waste. PCAs associated those compounds with pyrogenic PAHs, suggesting that burning of e-waste, a common practice to isolate valuable metals, may cause this contamination. Moreover, other contamination pathways, especially incorporation of waste fragments into the soil, also appeared to play an important role in determining concentrations of some of the pollutants in the soil. Concentrations of several of these compounds were extremely high (especially PBDEs, heavy metals and SCCPs) and in some cases exceeded action guideline levels for soil. This indicates that exposure to these contaminants via the soil alone is potentially harmful to the recyclers and their families living on waste sites. Many organic contaminants and other exposure pathways such as inhalation are not yet included in such guidelines but may also be significant, given that deposition from the air following waste burning was identified as a major pollutant source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Moeckel
- NILU - Norwegian Institute for Air Research, 2007 Kjeller, Norway; Stockholm University, 11418 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Knut Breivik
- NILU - Norwegian Institute for Air Research, 2007 Kjeller, Norway; University of Oslo, 0351 Oslo, Norway
| | - Therese Haugdahl Nøst
- NILU - Norwegian Institute for Air Research, 2007 Kjeller, Norway; The Arctic University of Norway, 9019 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Alhaji Sankoh
- Njala University, Njala, Moyamba District, Sierra Leone
| | - Kevin C Jones
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Sweetman
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, United Kingdom
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Wu JP, Peng Y, Zhi H, Wu SK, Chen XY, Zeng YH, Luo XJ, Mai BX. Contaminant-related oxidative distress in common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) breeding at an e-waste site in South China. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 182:109079. [PMID: 31887468 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.109079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The crude electronic waste (e-waste) recycling has caused severe contamination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in the local environment, begging the question of whether wildlife like birds living at e-waste sites are suffering from adverse effects. We examined several oxidative status markers and their relationships with hepatic concentrations of PCBs and PBDEs in common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) that inhabit an e-waste site in South China. The results showed that the mean concentrations of ∑PCBs (19100 ng/g) and ∑PBDEs (507 ng/g) in kingfishers from e-waste site were several orders of magnitude higher than those in the species from a reference site. Correspondingly, hepatic concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in kingfishers from the e-waste site were significantly higher than those detected in the reference population, suggesting oxidative distress in the birds breeding at the e-waste site. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in the liver from the exposed group were significantly lower compared with the reference group, while the opposite trend was observed for glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Significantly positive correlations were observed between PCB or PBDE concentrations and the levels of MDA and ROS; while negative correlations were found for enzymatic activities of SOD and CAT. Overall, our results may suggest a potential linkage between exposure to e-waste-derived pollutants and elevated oxidative stress, thereby indicating a potential oxidative stress-related health effects in common kingfisher breeding at the e-waste site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang-Ping Wu
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Water and Soil Pollution Control and Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, China.
| | - Ying Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China; State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control & Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Hui Zhi
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241002, China
| | - Si-Kang Wu
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Water and Soil Pollution Control and Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, China
| | - Xiao-Yun Chen
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Water and Soil Pollution Control and Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, 241002, China
| | - Yan-Hong Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Bi-Xian Mai
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China
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Pius C, Koosaletse-Mswela P, Sichilongo K, Dikinya O. Mapping polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/dibenzofurans in soils around Pugu municipal dump site in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: Implications on dermal and soil ingestion exposure for people in the peripheral. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 258:113665. [PMID: 31812523 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Experimental data on the contribution of a dump site in Tanzania as a point source of the 17 possible congeners of PCDD/Fs to the environment is presented. Dry and wet season samples were collected around Pugu municipal dump site followed by GCxGC-TOFMS analysis. The dominant congeners were OctaCDD, 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HepCDF; 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HeptaCDD and 1,2,4,7-PeCDD. The concentrations of the congeners expressed as TEQ WHO2005 ranged from 11.69 to 48.97 pg/g with a mean of 29.44 pg/g for the dry season and TEQ WHO2005 4.13-85.82 pg/g with a mean of 41.51 pg/g for the wet season. These levels were speculated high enough to accumulate in free-range chickens and cause harmful effects to humans that consumed them especially residents around Pugu dump site. Exposure of people to PCDD/Fs through dermal absorption and soil ingestion were estimated using the VLIER-HUMAAN Mathematical model. Exposure through dermal absorption was estimated to be 1.2 × 10-4 and 9.8 × 10-6 ng TEQ/kg day for children and adults respectively while through soil ingestion via consumption of contaminated foods and other sources was 0.0045 and 0.27 ng TEQ/kg day for children and adults respectively. These values however were well below the WHO tolerable daily intake. Generally, there was no significant variation for total PCDD/Fs in the dry and wet season (α = 0.08). Strong positive correlation (r = 0.94) between total PCDD/Fs and organic matter content was observed during the wet season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Pius
- Department of Chemistry, Mkwawa University College of Education, P.O Box 2513, Iringa, Tanzania
| | - Pulane Koosaletse-Mswela
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Botswana, Faculty of Science, 00704 Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Kwenga Sichilongo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Botswana, Faculty of Science, 00704 Gaborone, Botswana.
| | - Oagile Dikinya
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Botswana, Faculty of Science, 00704 Gaborone, Botswana
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Saibu S, Adebusoye SA, Oyetibo GO. Aerobic bacterial transformation and biodegradation of dioxins: a review. BIORESOUR BIOPROCESS 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s40643-020-0294-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractWaste generation tends to surge in quantum as the population and living conditions grow. A group of structurally related chemicals of dibenzofurans and dibenzo-p-dioxins including their chlorinated congeners collectively known as dioxins are among the most lethal environmental pollutants formed during different anthropogenic activities. Removal of dioxins from the environment is challenging due to their persistence, recalcitrance to biodegradation, and prevalent nature. Dioxin elimination through the biological approach is considered both economically and environmentally as a better substitute to physicochemical conventional approaches. Bacterial aerobic degradation of these compounds is through two major catabolic routes: lateral and angular dioxygenation pathways. Information on the diversity of bacteria with aerobic dioxin degradation capability has accumulated over the years and efforts have been made to harness this fundamental knowledge to cleanup dioxin-polluted soils. This paper covers the previous decades and recent developments on bacterial diversity and aerobic bacterial transformation, degradation, and bioremediation of dioxins in contaminated systems.
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