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Xu H, Hu Z, Sun Y, Xu J, Huang L, Yao W, Yu Z, Xie Y. Microplastics supply contaminants in food chain: non-negligible threat to health safety. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2024; 46:276. [PMID: 38958774 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-024-02076-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) and organic pollutants (OPs) residues is commonly observed in diverse environmental settings, where their interactions can potentially alter the behavior, availability, and toxicity of OPs, thereby posing risks to ecosystems. Herein, we particularly emphasize the potential for bioaccumulation and the biomagnification effect of MPs in the presence of OPs within the food chain. Despite the ongoing influx of novel information, there exists a dearth of data concerning the destiny and consequences of MPs in the context of food pollution. Further endeavors are imperative to unravel the destiny and repercussions of MPs/OPs within food ecosystems and processing procedures, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of the joint effect on human health and food quality. Nevertheless, the adsorption and desorption behavior of coexisting pollutants can be significantly influenced by MPs forming biofilms within real-world environments, including temperature, pH, and food constituents. A considerable portion of MPs tend to accumulate in the epidermis of vegetables and fruits, thus necessitating further research to comprehend the potential ramifications of MPs on the infiltration behavior of OPs on agricultural product surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwen Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No. 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No. 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhenyang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No. 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No. 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yingying Sun
- Research Institute, Centre Testing International Group Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Jiang Xu
- Research Institute, Centre Testing International Group Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Lijun Huang
- Wuxi Food Safety Inspection and Test Center, 35-210 Changjiang South Road, Wuxi, 214142, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Weirong Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No. 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No. 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhilong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No. 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China.
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No. 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Yunfei Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, No. 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China.
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, No. 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Alidoust M, Saito Y, Takada H, Mizukawa K, Karlsson T, Brosché S, Beeler B, Karapanagioti HK. A Unique Monitoring Method for Fecal and Sewage-Derived Chemical Pollution Utilizing International Pellet Watch Approach. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:4761-4771. [PMID: 38410842 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08847] [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: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
This study established a unique approach to assess fecal contamination by measuring fecal sterols, especially coprostanol (5β-cholestanol-3β-ol, 5β) and cholestanol (5α-cholestan-3β-ol, 5α) and their ratio 5β/(5β + 5α) alongside triclosan (TCS) and methyl-triclosan (MTC) in beached plastic pellets across 40 countries. Coprostanol concentrations ranged from 3.6 to 8190 ng/g pellet with extremely high levels in densely populated areas in African countries. The 5β/(5β + 5α) ratio was not affected by the difference in residence time of pellets in aquatic environments, and their spatial pattern showed a positive correlation with that of sedimentary sterols, demonstrating its reliability as an indicator of fecal contamination. Pellets from populated areas of economically developing countries, i.e., Africa and Asia, with lower coverage of wastewater treatment exhibited higher 5β/(5β + 5α) ratios (∼0.7) corresponding to ∼1% sewage in seawater, while pellets from developed countries, i.e., the USA, Canada, Japan, and Europe, with higher coverage of modern wastewater treatment displayed lower ratios (∼0.5), corresponding to the first contact limit. Triclosan levels were higher in developing countries (0.4-1298 ng/g pellet), whereas developed countries showed higher methyl-triclosan levels (0.5-70 ng/g pellet) due to TCS conversion during secondary treatment. However, some samples from Japan and Europe displayed higher TCS levels, suggesting contributions from combined sewage overflow (CSO). Combination of 5β/(5β + 5α) and MTC/TCS ratios revealed extreme fecal contamination from direct input of raw sewage due to inadequate treatment facilities in some African and South and Southeast Asian countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Alidoust
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Yu Saito
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Hideshige Takada
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Kaoruko Mizukawa
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Therese Karlsson
- International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN), Första Långgatan 18, 413 28 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Sara Brosché
- International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN), Första Långgatan 18, 413 28 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bjorn Beeler
- International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN), Första Långgatan 18, 413 28 Gothenburg, Sweden
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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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Njoku A, Agbalenyo M, Laude J, Ajibola TF, Attah MA, Sarko SB. Environmental Injustice and Electronic Waste in Ghana: Challenges and Recommendations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 21:25. [PMID: 38248490 PMCID: PMC10815197 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21010025] [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: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste) or discarded electronic devices that are unwanted, not working, or have reached their end of life pose significant threats to human and environmental health. This is a major concern in Africa, where the majority of e-waste is discarded. In the year 2021, an estimated 57.4 million metric tons of e-waste were generated worldwide. Globally, COVID-19 lockdowns have contributed to increased e-waste generation. Although Africa generates the least of this waste, the continent has been the dumping ground for e-waste from the developed world. The flow of hazardous waste from the prosperous 'Global North' to the impoverished 'Global South' is termed "toxic colonialism". Agbogbloshie, Ghana, an e-waste hub where about 39% of e-waste was treated, was listed among the top 10 most polluted places in the world. The discard of e-waste in Ghana presents an issue of environmental injustice, defined as the disproportionate exposure of communities of color and low-income communities to pollution, its associated health and environmental effects, and the unequal environmental protection provided through policies. Despite the economic benefits of e-waste, many civilians (low-income earners, settlers, children, and people with minimal education) are exposed to negative health effects due to poverty, lack of education, and weak regulations. We critically examine the existing literature to gather empirical information on e-waste and environmental injustice. Comprehensive policies and regulations are needed to manage e-waste locally and globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuli Njoku
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, CT 06515, USA;
| | - Martin Agbalenyo
- Southwestern AHEC, Inc., 5 Research Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, USA;
| | - Janaya Laude
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, CT 06515, USA;
| | - Taiwo Folake Ajibola
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UConn School of Medicine, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030, USA;
| | - Mavis Asiwome Attah
- Department of Environmental Health and Sanitation, Akuapem North Municipal Assembly, Akropong-Akuapem P.O. Box 100, Ghana;
| | - Samuel Bruce Sarko
- Department of International Development, Presbyterian University, Akropong-Akuapem P.O. Box 393, Ghana;
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Mun SB, Cho BG, Jin SR, Lim CR, Yun YS, Cho CW. Adsorption of organic micropollutants on yeast: Batch experiment and modeling. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 334:117507. [PMID: 36809737 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117507] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Yeast is ubiquitous and may act as a solid phase in natural aquatic systems, which may affect the distribution of organic micropollutants (OMs). Therefore, it is important to understand the adsorption of OMs on yeast. Therefore, in this study, a predictive model for the adsorption values of OMs on the yeast was developed. For that, an isotherm experiment was performed to estimate the adsorption affinity of OMs on yeast (i.e., Saccharomyces cerevisiae). Afterwards, quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) modeling was performed for the purpose of developing a prediction model and explaining the adsorption mechanism. For the modeling, empirical and in silico linear free energy relationship (LFER) descriptors were applied. The isotherm results showed that yeast adsorbs a wide range of OMs, but the magnitude of Kd strongly depends on the types of OMs. The measured log Kd values of the tested OMs ranged from -1.91 to 1.1. Additionally, it was confirmed that the Kd measured in distilled water is comparable to that measured in real anaerobic or aerobic wastewater (R2 = 0.79). In QSAR modeling, the Kd value could be predicted by the LFER concept with an R2 of 0.867 by empirical descriptors and an R2 of 0.796 by in silico descriptors. The adsorption mechanisms of yeast for OMs were identified in individual correlations between log Kd and each descriptor: Dispersive interaction, hydrophobicity, hydrogen-bond donor, and cationic Coulombic interaction of OMs attract the adsorption, while the hydrogen-bond acceptor and anionic Coulombic interaction of OMs act as repulsive forces. The developed model can be used as an efficient method to estimate OM adsorption to yeast at a low level of concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Been Mun
- Department of Integrative Food, Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chonnam National University, Yongbong-ro 77, Buk-gu, 61186 Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Gyeon Cho
- Department of Integrative Food, Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chonnam National University, Yongbong-ro 77, Buk-gu, 61186 Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Ra Jin
- Department of Integrative Food, Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chonnam National University, Yongbong-ro 77, Buk-gu, 61186 Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Che-Ryong Lim
- School of Chemical Engineering Jeonbuk National University 567 Beakje-dearo, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, Jeonbuk 561-756, South Korea
| | - Yeoung-Sang Yun
- School of Chemical Engineering Jeonbuk National University 567 Beakje-dearo, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, Jeonbuk 561-756, South Korea.
| | - Chul-Woong Cho
- Department of Integrative Food, Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chonnam National University, Yongbong-ro 77, Buk-gu, 61186 Gwangju, Republic of Korea; Department of Bioenergy Science and Technology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea.
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Kılıç S, Kılıç Ö, Belivermiş M, Ergül HA. Chronology of PAH and PCB pollution using sediment core in the Golden Horn estuary (Sea of Marmara). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 187:114570. [PMID: 36642004 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114570] [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: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The sources and depositional history of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and 18 polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs) congeners in the Golden Horn estuary (İstanbul) were investigated using a dated sediment core for the period between 1880 and 2012. The concentrations of PAHs and PCBs were calculated for every 4 cm slices of the sediment core and ranged from 1203.5 to 3441.4 ng/g and 5.4 to 41.4 ng/g, respectively. The diagnostic ratios indicated that the maximum PAH values correspondence to combustion after a crude oil-carrying Romanian tanker (Independenta) accident in the İstanbul Strait in 1979. The historical deposition of PAHs and PCBs in the Golden Horn was influenced by municipal effluent and heavy industrial dischargers approximately 50 years. When the Silahtarağa thermal power plant (TPP) was operating, PCB pollution rose; however, after a thorough rehabilitation effort and the outlawing of PCB use in the 1990s, pollution levels significantly tended to decrease.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kılıç
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Kocaeli University, 41380 Umuttepe, Kocaeli, Turkey.
| | - Ö Kılıç
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, 34134 Vezneciler, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - M Belivermiş
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Istanbul University, 34134 Vezneciler, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - H A Ergül
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Kocaeli University, 41380 Umuttepe, Kocaeli, Turkey
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Tao D, Jin Q, Ruan Y, Zhang K, Jin L, Zhan Y, Su G, Wu J, Leung KMY, Lam PKS, He Y. Widespread occurrence of emerging E-waste contaminants - Liquid crystal monomers in sediments of the Pearl River Estuary, China. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 437:129377. [PMID: 35738172 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal monomers (LCMs), commonly used in screens of electronic devices, have recently been identified as a group of emerging chemicals of concern associated with e-waste. They are potentially persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic substances, and may pose a threat to the marine ecosystem. The Pearl River Estuary (PRE) receives organic contaminants discharged from the Pearl River Delta region, where primitive handling of e-waste is widespread. However, information on the pollution status of LCMs in the PRE is absent. Herein, a rapid and robust analytical method was established using ultrasonic extraction, solid phase extraction cleanup, and GC-Orbitrap-MS analysis. The spatial distribution of 39 target LCMs was investigated in 45 surface sediment samples from the PRE. Ten LCMs were detected, with ΣLCMs ranged from 0.9 to 31.1 ng/g dry weight. Our results demonstrated a widespread occurrence of LCMs in the sediments of the PRE, and a gradient of their contamination from inshore to offshore regions, indicating land-based origins. Our reported ΣLCMs concentrations were relatively higher compared to many other legacy and emerging pollutants found in the same investigated area. Preliminary risk assessment showed 3VbcH, Pe3bcH and tFMeO-3bcHP might be the top 3 risk contributors in the PRE. Further investigation on the ecological impact of LCMs on marine benthic ecosystems, as well as identification of their sources and control measures are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyang Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Qianqian Jin
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China; School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuefei Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China; National Observation and Research Station of Coastal Ecological Environments in Macao, Macao Environmental Research Institute, Macau University of Science and Technology, 999078, Macao Special Adminstrative Region of China
| | - Linjie Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuting Zhan
- School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Guanyong Su
- School of Environmental and Biological Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210094, China
| | - Jiaxue Wu
- School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Kenneth M Y Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Paul K S Lam
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China; Office of the President, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuhe He
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China; School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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Ravanipour M, Nabipour I, Yunesian M, Rastkari N, Mahvi AH. Exposure sources of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and health risk assessment: a systematic review in Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:55437-55456. [PMID: 35676570 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21274-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review aims to identify the sources of exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), portioning, and human health risk assessment in Iran. The literature was searched in the international databases of Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the national databases of SID and MagIran up to November 14, 2020. Among all 153 articles, 21 eligible papers were identified. Among them, only one article was related to drinking water, the rest was related to food and soil, and no article was found on ambient air. The corrected portion of each exposure source was determined to be 90% for food, 9% for water, and 1% for air. The total hazard quotient (HQ) was determined to be within an unsafe range, and the total excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) was determined to be at a high risk of oral carcinogenesis. It is suggested that a comprehensive study be conducted in a specific period for all sources of exposure in all counties of Iran. Moreover, it is recommended that the policymakers set national standards for this pollutant in near future in some sources of exposure (e.g., drinking water) which have no standards in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Ravanipour
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, PourSina St., Qods St., Enghelab St, Tehran, 141761315, Iran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Iraj Nabipour
- The Persian Gulf Tropical Medicine Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Masud Yunesian
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, PourSina St., Qods St., Enghelab St, Tehran, 141761315, Iran
- Department of Research Methodology and Data Analysis, Institute for Environmental Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Noushin Rastkari
- Center for Water Quality Research (CWQR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Center for Air Pollution Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Mahvi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, PourSina St., Qods St., Enghelab St, Tehran, 141761315, Iran.
- Center for Solid Waste Research (CSWR), Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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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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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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Alidoust M, Yeo GB, Mizukawa K, Takada H. Monitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, hopanes, and polychlorinated biphenyls in the Persian Gulf in plastic resin pellets. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 165:112052. [PMID: 33582425 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and hopanes were analyzed in plastic resin pellets collected from 19 locations along the Persian Gulf coastline. PCBs were high at locations near industrial areas, where their concentrations (sum of 13 congeners, 54-624 ng/g-pellet) were higher than those in rural coastal towns, which were close to global background levels (<10 ng/g-pellet). PAH concentrations (sum of 27 PAH species) varied from 273 to 15,786 ng/g-pellet and were highest in industrial cities (Bushehr and Bandar Abbas), with a petrogenic signature at most locations, possibly due to the petroleum-based industries, refineries, and tankers. These levels were placed in the extremely polluted category on a global basis. The distribution of hopanes was relatively homogeneous, and their range of concentrations was 8048-59,778 ng/g-pellet. This range had a positive correlation with PAH concentrations. The PAH and hopane results emphasize the ubiquity of petroleum pollution in the Persian Gulf.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Alidoust
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Geok Be Yeo
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Kaoruko Mizukawa
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Hideshige Takada
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan.
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Alimi OS, Fadare OO, Okoffo ED. Microplastics in African ecosystems: Current knowledge, abundance, associated contaminants, techniques, and research needs. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 755:142422. [PMID: 33011593 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Despite Africa ranking top in mismanaged plastic waste, there is insufficient data on the extent of microplastics and its interaction with other contaminants in its ecosystems. Microplastics pollution has been documented globally, however, specific data from the continent is crucial for accurate risk assessment and to drive policies. We critically reviewed 56 articles from 1987 to 2020 and provide an overview of the current knowledge of the abundance and distribution of microplastics and associated contaminants in African aquatic systems and organisms. Most of the studies were carried out in the marine environment and there is currently no available data on the abundance of microplastic pollution in the African terrestrial environment. We show that across all studies, 5-100% of all sampled aquatic organisms contained microplastics. Concerning high levels of microplastics were reported in fish from Egypt compared to other parts of Africa and the world. Across all persistent organic pollutants sampled in microplastics, hopanes and phthalates were present at high concentrations while sodium and zinc were high relative to other trace metals reported. The most frequently occurring plastics were polyethylene followed by polypropylene and polystyrene. We found that most of the studies relied on visual inspection (52%) > FTIR (38%) > Raman spectroscopy (5%) > Scanning electron microscopy (3%) > Differential scanning calorimetry (2%) for identifying microplastics. Major gaps in sampling and identification techniques which may have overestimated or underestimated the current levels were identified. We discuss other research priorities and recommend solutions to address these issues associated with microplastic pollution in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olubukola S Alimi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada.
| | - Oluniyi O Fadare
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Elvis D Okoffo
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
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13
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Health Consequences for E-Waste Workers and Bystanders-A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17051534. [PMID: 32120921 PMCID: PMC7084368 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Informal e-waste recycling is associated with several health hazards. Thus far, the main focus of research in the e-waste sector has been to assess the exposure site, such as the burden of heavy metals or organic pollutants. The aim of this study was to comprehensively assess the health consequences associated with informal e-waste recycling. A questionnaire-based assessment regarding occupational information, medical history, and current symptoms and complaints was carried out with a group of n = 84 e-waste workers and compared to a control cohort of n = 94 bystanders at the e-waste recycling site Agbogbloshie. E-waste workers suffered significantly more from work-related injuries, back pain, and red itchy eyes in comparison to the control group. In addition, regular drug use was more common in e-waste workers (25% vs. 6.4%). Both groups showed a noticeable high use of pain killers (all workers 79%). The higher frequency of symptoms in the e-waste group can be explained by the specific recycling tasks, such as burning or dismantling. However, the report also indicates that adverse health effects apply frequently to the control group. Occupational safety trainings and the provision of personal protection equipment are needed for all workers.
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Combi T, Pintado-Herrera MG, Lara-Martín PA, Lopes-Rocha M, Miserocchi S, Langone L, Guerra R. Historical sedimentary deposition and flux of PAHs, PCBs and DDTs in sediment cores from the western Adriatic Sea. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 241:125029. [PMID: 31604196 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.125029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The sources and depositional history of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and organochlorine compounds (OCs) over the last century were investigated in sediment cores from the North Adriatic Sea (Po River prodelta) and the South-Western Adriatic Margin (SWAM). Contaminant concentrations were higher in the Po River prodelta. ∑16PAHs ranged from 193 to 533 ng g-1, ∑5PCBs ranged from 0.9 to 5.2 ng g-1 and ∑DDTs (p,p'-DDD + p,p'-DDE) ranged from 0.1 to 2.5 ng g-1. In the SWAM, ∑PAHs ranged from 11 to 74 ng g-1 while ∑PCB and ∑DDT concentrations were close to the MQL. Accordingly, contaminant fluxes were much higher in the northern (mean values of 152 ± 31 ng cm2 y-1 and 0.70 ± 0.35 ng cm2 y-1 for PAHs and OCs, respectively) than in the southern Adriatic (2.62 ± 0.9 ng cm2 y-1 and 0.03 ± 0.02 ng cm2 y-1 for PAHs and OCs, respectively). The historical deposition of PAHs seemed to be influenced by the historical socioeconomic development and by changes in the composition of fossil fuel consumption (from petroleum derivatives to natural gas) in Italy from the end of the 19th century to the present. Similarly, vertical variations in DDT concentrations matched its historical use and consumption in Italy, which started around in the mid-late 1940s to fight typhus during the II World War. Contaminant concentrations detected in sediments does not seem to pose ecotoxicological risk for marine organisms in the Adriatic Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiane Combi
- Universidade Federal da Bahia, Instituto de Geociências, Departamento de Oceanografia. Rua Barão de Jeremoabo, 40170-020, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil; Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca per le Scienze Ambientali, Università di Bologna, Via Sant'Alberto 123, 48123, Ravenna, Italy.
| | - Marina G Pintado-Herrera
- Departamento de Química Física, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Ambientales, Campus de Excelencia Internacional del Mar (CEI•MAR), Universidad de Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Pablo A Lara-Martín
- Departamento de Química Física, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Ambientales, Campus de Excelencia Internacional del Mar (CEI•MAR), Universidad de Cádiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Marília Lopes-Rocha
- Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca per le Scienze Ambientali, Università di Bologna, Via Sant'Alberto 123, 48123, Ravenna, Italy
| | - Stefano Miserocchi
- Istituto Scienze Polari (ISP), Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), 40129, Bologna, Italy
| | - Leonardo Langone
- Istituto Scienze Polari (ISP), Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), 40129, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberta Guerra
- Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca per le Scienze Ambientali, Università di Bologna, Via Sant'Alberto 123, 48123, Ravenna, Italy; Dipartimento di Fisica e Astronomia, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Orisakwe OE, Frazzoli C, Ilo CE, Oritsemuelebi B. Public Health Burden of E-waste in Africa. J Health Pollut 2019; 9:190610. [PMID: 31259086 PMCID: PMC6555250 DOI: 10.5696/2156-9614-9.22.190610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental impacts from informal e-waste recycling are increasing in Africa. E-waste handling and disposal exposes people to highly toxic cocktails of heavy metals, brominated flame retardants, non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PBDF) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCB). Most of these compounds are endocrine disrupters, and most are neuro- and immune-toxic as well. OBJECTIVES Informal e-waste recycling in African countries is a serious public health threat. The present paper reviews the extent of e-waste exposure in Africa and related impacts on people, animals and the environment. METHODS Four electronic databases (PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar) were searched for publications related to e-waste and human health in Africa. Search terms included 'e-waste in Africa', 'e-waste in developing nations', 'public health and e-waste', 'environment and e-waste', and 'e-waste and health'. DISCUSSION Elevated levels of e-waste pollutants in water, air, soil, dust, fish, vegetable, and human matrices (blood, urine, breast milk) indicate that not only are e-waste workers at risk from exposure to e-waste, but the general population and future generations as well. Headache, cough and chest pain, stomach discomfort, miscarriage, abnormal thyroid and reproductive function, reduction of gonadal hormone, and cancer are common complaints of those involved with the processing of e-waste. CONCLUSIONS The evidence presented from the reviewed studies illustrates the extent of the human health and environmental risks posed by e-waste in Africa. There is a need for a regulatory framework including specific legislation, infrastructure and protocols to safely recycle and dispose of e-waste in sub-Saharan African countries. COMPETING INTERESTS The authors declare no competing financial interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orish Ebere Orisakwe
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Chiara Frazzoli
- Department for Cardiovascular, Dysmetabolic and Aging-Associated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Cajetan Elochukwu Ilo
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Benjamin Oritsemuelebi
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
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16
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Guo X, Wang J. The chemical behaviors of microplastics in marine environment: A review. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 142:1-14. [PMID: 31232281 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 262] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are widely existed in marine and coastal environments, which aroused global concern in recent years. This review mainly summarized the interactions of organic pollutants and metals with microplastics based on environmental monitoring results and laboratory results reported by literatures. Firstly, the type, properties, and distribution of microplastics in the environment were briefly reviewed. Secondly, the property changes of microplastics after degradation were discussed. Thirdly, the concentrations of pollutants on microplastics in global environments were summarized. Then the effect of the factors (e.g. types and properties of microplastics, types of pollutants, and environmental conditions) on the sorption behaviors of microplastics were discussed in detail. Finally, the influences of microplastics on marine organisms were briefly evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Guo
- Laboratory of Environmental Technology, INET, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, PR China
| | - Jianlong Wang
- Laboratory of Environmental Technology, INET, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Radioactive Waste Treatment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, PR China.
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17
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Gorman D, Moreira FT, Turra A, Fontenelle FR, Combi T, Bícego MC, de Castro Martins C. Organic contamination of beached plastic pellets in the South Atlantic: Risk assessments can benefit by considering spatial gradients. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 223:608-615. [PMID: 30798056 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.02.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are important vectors for the transport and accumulation of persistent organic contaminants in coastal and marine environments. We determined the concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) associated with microplastic pellets collected along a 39-km stretch of Brazil's South Atlantic coastline to understand the spatial dynamics and potential risk posed by these contaminants. Total PAH concentrations ranged from 1,454 to 6,002 ng g-1 and regularly exceeded the threshold effect level (TEL) for sediments defined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Sampling stations, spaced evenly along the coastline (i.e., 3-km intervals) exhibited a general north-to-south decline in the concentrations of some PAHs, but this spatial gradient was complicated by small-scale differences in the concentrations and composition of associated contaminants. Similarly, analysis of individual isomer ratios revealed further complexity driven by differences in the contribution of petrogenic versus pyrolytic inputs which pose different levels of risk to marine organisms. PCB concentrations ranged from 0.8 to 104.6 ng g-1 and were dominated by low chlorinated congeners likely to have originated from major industrial areas to the north. Overall, this study highlights the challenge of directly linking microplastic pollution with the potential toxicological effects of organic contaminants in coastal waters. We recommend that monitoring programs should explicitly consider both the origin (i.e., pellet sources and dispersal pathways) and nature of organic contamination (i.e., concentration and composition) when assessing the risks for biota and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gorman
- Center for Marine Biology, University of São Paulo, Rodovia Manoel Hypólito do Rego, Praia do Cabelo Gordo, São Sebastião, SP, 11600-000, Brazil.
| | | | - Alexander Turra
- Instituto Oceanográfico da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Ribeiro Fontenelle
- Instituto Oceanográfico da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Centro de Estudos do Mar da Universidade Federal do Paraná, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Combi
- Departamento de Oceanografia, Instituto de Geociências, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
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18
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Bruce-Vanderpuije P, Megson D, Reiner EJ, Bradley L, Adu-Kumi S, Gardella JA. The state of POPs in Ghana- A review on persistent organic pollutants: Environmental and human exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 245:331-342. [PMID: 30447476 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.10.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Ghana is one of the top pesticide users and highest persistent organic pollutant (POP) emitters in sub-saharan Africa. Despite recent increases in published data, there is limited information on how POP concentrations have changed, post ratification of the Stockholm Convention. As a result, this review aims to address these knowledge gaps by collating available data that reported POPs in Ghanaian environmental matrices, identify spatial and temporal trends, and establish potential health risks. It is worth noting that Ghana has not developed its own regulatory standards for POPs, but adapts United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) standards. Results obtained showed concentrations in excess of USEPA regulatory standards for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl sulphonates (PFASs) and dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane (DDD) in water, polychlorinated and polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs and PBDD/Fs) in e-waste soils, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in aquatic organisms and dairy products. The published studies do not cover major regions nationwide. The inconsistency in methods and analytes measured, along with data scarcity in some regions, makes it challenging to identify temporal trends. However, the data did indicate decreasing concentrations of some legacy POPs in soil/sediment and aquatic organisms, with increasing concentrations of some POPs in water, fish, fruits and vegetables. Studies that performed health risks assessments were limited although the data indicated risks to e-waste workers, some farmers and vulnerable sub-populations. This review identified potential human health risks from POPs in the Ghanaian environment and the need for more consistent and widespread monitoring program.
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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
| | - David Megson
- School of Science and the Environment, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Eric J Reiner
- Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, Laboratory Services Branch, Toronto, ON, M9P 3V6, Canada
| | - Lee Bradley
- School of Science and the Environment, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - 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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Wang F, Wong CS, Chen D, Lu X, Wang F, Zeng EY. Interaction of toxic chemicals with microplastics: A critical review. WATER RESEARCH 2018; 139:208-219. [PMID: 29653356 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 442] [Impact Index Per Article: 73.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment has attracted great attention as it has become a global concern. This review aims to systematically demonstrate the role of marine microplastic as a novel medium for environmental partitioning of chemicals in the ocean, which can cause toxic effects in the ecological environment. This review assimilated and analyzed available data published between 1972 and 2017 on the interaction between MPs and selected chemicals. Firstly, the review analyzes the occurrence of chemicals in MPs and outlines their distribution patterns. Then possible mechanisms of the interaction between MPs and organic chemicals and potential controlling factors were critically studied. Finally, the hazards of MPs and affiliated organic chemicals to marine organisms were shortly summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fen Wang
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Charles S Wong
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China; Rircharson College for the Environment, University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 2E9, Canada
| | - Da Chen
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xingwen Lu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Fei Wang
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| | - Eddy Y Zeng
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
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20
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Tomsej T, Horak J, Tomsejova S, Krpec K, Klanova J, Dej M, Hopan F. The impact of co-combustion of polyethylene plastics and wood in a small residential boiler on emissions of gaseous pollutants, particulate matter, PAHs and 1,3,5- triphenylbenzene. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 196:18-24. [PMID: 29289847 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.12.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to simulate a banned but widely spread practice of co-combustion of plastic with wood in a small residential boiler and to quantify its impact on emissions of gaseous pollutants, particulate matter (PM), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and 1,3,5-triphenylbenzene (135TPB), a new tracer of polyethylene plastic combustion. Supermarket polyethylene shopping bags (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate bottles (PET) were burnt as supplementary fuels with beech logs (BL) in an old-type 20 kW over-fire boiler both at a nominal and reduced heat output. An impact of co-combustion was more pronounced at the nominal heat output: an increase in emissions of PM, total organic carbon (TOC), toxic equivalent (TEQ) of 7 carcinogenic PAHs (c-PAHs) and a higher ratio of c-PAHs TEQ in particulate phase was observed during co-combustion of both plastics. 135TPB was found in emissions from both plastics both at a nominal and reduced output. In contrast to findings reported in the literature, 135TPB was a dominant compound detected by mass spectrometry on m/z 306 exclusively in emissions from co-combustion of PE. Surprisingly, six other even more abundant compounds of unknown identity were found on this m/z in emissions from co-combustion of PET. One of these unknown compounds was identified as p-quaterphenyl (pQ). Principal component analysis revealed strong correlation among 135TPB, pQ and five unknown compounds. pQ seems to be suitable tracers of polyethylene terephthalate plastic co-combustion, while 135TPB proved its suitability to be an all-purpose tracer of polyethylene plastics combustion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Tomsej
- Institute of Clean Technologies, Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15, 708 33, Ostrava-Poruba, Czech Republic; RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiri Horak
- Energy Research Center, Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15, 708 33, Ostrava-Poruba, Czech Republic
| | - Sarka Tomsejova
- Energy Research Center, Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15, 708 33, Ostrava-Poruba, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Krpec
- Energy Research Center, Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15, 708 33, Ostrava-Poruba, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Klanova
- RECETOX, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Milan Dej
- Energy Research Center, Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15, 708 33, Ostrava-Poruba, Czech Republic
| | - Frantisek Hopan
- Energy Research Center, Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 15, 708 33, Ostrava-Poruba, Czech Republic
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21
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Hazardous Chemicals in Plastics in Marine Environments: International Pellet Watch. THE HANDBOOK OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/698_2018_299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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22
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Wu Y, Wang Y, Huang X, Chen S, Zhong X, Ni Z, Cai X, Liu X, Simonnot MO, Qiu R. Zerovalent iron in conjunction with surfactants to remediate sediments contaminated by polychlorinated biphenyls and nickel. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 189:479-488. [PMID: 28957765 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.09.038] [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: 11/10/2016] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Dredging and disposal is commonly used for cleanup of contaminated sediments, leaving the relocated sediments still in need of remediation. In this study, the feasibility of two approaches to using zerovalent iron (ZVI) in conjunction with surfactants to remediate sediments contaminated by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and Ni was investigated. Approach A is surfactant desorption followed by ZVI treatment and approach B is a simple mixture of ZVI and sediment in surfactant solution. Results of approach A show that 65.24% of PCBs and 2.12% of Ni were desorbed by 1% Envirosurf; however, the sequential ZVI-mediated reductive dechlorination (ZVI-RD) was ineffective due to micelle sequestration by high contents of surfactants while Ni could be almost completely removed. For approach B, less than 1% of coexisting Ni was released to aqueous solution, and 47.18%-76.31% PCBs could be dechlorinated by ZVI with the addition of 0.04% surfactants (Tween-80 and Envirosurf). Results of dechlorination kinetics and ZVI morphologies reveal that surfactants at the concentrations as low as 0.04% were able to enhance the contact of sediment-bound PCBs with ZVI, and also to alleviate ZVI passivation. The PCB mixtures in sediment were continuously desorbed and dechlorinated, yielding lower substituted homologues that are less toxic and less hydrophobic. Thus, a simple mixture of ZVI and contaminated sediments without dewatering appears to be a promising alternative to the remediation of PCBs-contaminated sediments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingxin Wu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation, 135 Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China; Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés, CNRS-Université de Lorraine, 1, rue Grandville, BP20451, 54001, Nancy Cedex, France; South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, 7 West Street, Yuancun, Guangzhou, 510655, PR China
| | - Yu Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation, 135 Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China
| | - Xiongfei Huang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation, 135 Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China
| | - Siyuan Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation, 135 Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China
| | - Xi Zhong
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation, 135 Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China
| | - Zhuobiao Ni
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation, 135 Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China
| | - Xinde Cai
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, 7 West Street, Yuancun, Guangzhou, 510655, PR China
| | - Xiaowen Liu
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, 7 West Street, Yuancun, Guangzhou, 510655, PR China
| | - Marie-Odile Simonnot
- Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés, CNRS-Université de Lorraine, 1, rue Grandville, BP20451, 54001, Nancy Cedex, France
| | - Rongliang Qiu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Environmental Pollution Control and Remediation, 135 Xingang Xi Road, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China.
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Ackah M. Informal E-waste recycling in developing countries: review of metal(loid)s pollution, environmental impacts and transport pathways. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:24092-24101. [PMID: 28944434 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-0273-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Crude or primitive recycling practices are often adopted in material resource recovery from E-waste in developing nations. Significant human health and environmental impacts may occur because of such practices. Literature on metal(loid)s pollution during E-waste processing is fragmented. Here, I review the health and environmental impacts of E-waste recycling operations and transport pathways of metal(loid)s, dispersed during operations. This paper is organised into five sections. Section 1 relates to the background of global E-waste generation and legal/illegal trade, citing specific cases from Ghana and other developing nations. Section 2 provides a brief information on sources of metal(loid)s in E-waste. Section 3 describes characteristics of informal E-waste recycling operations in developing nations. Section 4 examines the health and environmental impacts in E-waste recycling while section 5 evaluates major transport pathways of metal(loid)s contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ackah
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Macquarie University, 12 Wally Walk, North Ryde, Sydney, 2109, Australia.
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Tokumaru T, Ozaki H, Onwona-Agyeman S, Ofosu-Anim J, Watanabe I. Determination of the Extent of Trace Metals Pollution in Soils, Sediments and Human Hair at e-Waste Recycling Site in Ghana. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2017; 73:377-390. [PMID: 28770281 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-017-0434-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The concentrations of trace elements (Mg, Al, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Y, Mo, Cd, In, Sn, Sb, Cs, Ba, Tl, Pb, and Bi) in soils, sediment, human hair, and foodstuff collected around the electronic waste (e-waste) recycling sites in Accra, Ghana were detected using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). High levels of Cu, Zn, Mo, Cd, In, Sn, Sb, and Pb were observed in soils collected from the e-waste recycling sites. Four sequential extraction procedures were used to evaluate the mobility and bioavailability of metals (Cu, Zn, Cd, Sb, and Pb). Especially, the results showed that Cd and Zn in soils were mostly recovered in exchangeable fraction (respectively 58.9 and 62.8%). Sediment collected from around the site had enrichment of Zn, Sn, Sb, Mo, In, Pb, and Bi. The concentrations of Cu, Mo, Cd, Sb, and Pb in human hair were significantly higher than those collected from the control site (p < 0.01). Additionally, hierarchical cluster analysis reviewed that these elements were derived from e-waste activities. The results of Pb isotopic ratios in the samples indicate that Pb in human hair possibly originated from contaminated soils, fish, and foodstuff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Tokumaru
- The Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Ozaki
- Center for Higher Educational Development, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan
| | - Siaw Onwona-Agyeman
- The Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan
| | | | - Izumi Watanabe
- The Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan.
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25
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Yeo BG, Takada H, Hosoda J, Kondo A, Yamashita R, Saha M, Maes T. Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Hopanes in Plastic Resin Pellets as Markers of Oil Pollution via International Pellet Watch Monitoring. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2017; 73:196-206. [PMID: 28710501 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-017-0423-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Oil pollution in the marine environment is an unavoidable problem due to chronic input from local sources, particularly in urban areas and oil spills. Oil pollution not only causes immediate physical damages to surrounding wildlife but also some components, including higher molecular weight PAHs, can persist in the environment for many years and pose insidious threats to the ecosystem. Long-term and nontargeted monitoring of oil pollution is important. This paper examines the ability of International Pellet Watch (IPW) for initial identification and monitoring of oil pollution by analysing PAHs and hopanes in plastic pellet samples collected globally by volunteers. PAH concentrations with the sum of 28 parent and methyl PAHs vary geographically, ranging from 0.035 to 24.4 µg/g-pellet, in line with the presence or absence of local oil pollution sources, such as oil refineries or oil spill sites. This suggests that PAHs can be used to monitor petroleum pollution in IPW. A colour-coded categorization for PAH concentrations within IPW monitoring also is established to facilitate data presentation and understanding. PAH concentrations are generally higher in Western Europe, especially around the North Sea shorelines, moderate in East Asia and North America, and lower in South East Asia, Oceania, South America, and Africa. Hopane concentrations, with a smaller spatial variation (1.7-101 µg/g-pellet), showed no spatial pattern. This result and the poor correlation between hopanes and PAHs suggest that hopane concentrations alone are unsuited to identify petroleum pollution. However, hopane compositions can be used for fingerprinting sources of oil pollution. Thus, both PAHs and hopanes in IPW allow for low cost, remote monitoring of global oil pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bee Geok Yeo
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan
| | - Hideshige Takada
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan.
| | - Junki Hosoda
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan
| | - Atsuko Kondo
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan
| | - Rei Yamashita
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan
| | - Mahua Saha
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, 183-8509, Japan
- National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), CSIR, Dona Paula, Panjim, Goa, 403004, India
| | - Thomas Maes
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0HT, UK
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Daum K, Stoler J, Grant RJ. Toward a More Sustainable Trajectory for E-Waste Policy: A Review of a Decade of E-Waste Research in Accra, Ghana. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14020135. [PMID: 28146075 PMCID: PMC5334689 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14020135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Global flows of e-waste from the Global North to the Global South continue to damage local environments and harm human health. Weak e-waste regulations and limited use of safety measures for e-waste workers in Accra, Ghana, foster an exploitative environment within the industry, and pose health risks for those working and living near e-waste processing sites. This paper presents an integrated review of over 40 e-waste studies specific to Accra, with particular emphasis on the well-studied e-waste processing site in Agbogbloshie, and synthesizes the existing research base across interdisciplinary themes of human health, environmental health, globalization, trade and informalization, and public policy. Despite significant international attention to Accra’s e-waste problem, loopholes within international environmental regulations and treaties provide few incentives and resources for Ghana to strengthen protections for human and environmental health. After a decade of e-waste research in Accra, the crisis continues to intensify; we present a renewed vision for sustainable e-waste policy reform in Ghana and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Daum
- Department of Geography and Regional Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
| | - Justin Stoler
- Department of Geography and Regional Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, FL 33136, USA.
- Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
| | - Richard J Grant
- Department of Geography and Regional Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
- Department of Geography, Environment Management, and Energy Studies, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, 2006, South Africa.
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27
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Rios Mendoza LM, Taniguchi S, Karapanagioti HK. Advanced Analytical Techniques for Assessing the Chemical Compounds Related to Microplastics. CHARACTERIZATION AND ANALYSIS OF MICROPLASTICS 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.coac.2016.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Taniguchi S, Colabuono FI, Dias PS, Oliveira R, Fisner M, Turra A, Izar GM, Abessa DMS, Saha M, Hosoda J, Yamashita R, Takada H, Lourenço RA, Magalhães CA, Bícego MC, Montone RC. Spatial variability in persistent organic pollutants and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons found in beach-stranded pellets along the coast of the state of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2016; 106:87-94. [PMID: 27021625 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Revised: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
High spatial variability in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides, such as DDTs, and polybrominated diphenylethers was observed in plastic pellets collected randomly from 41 beaches (15 cities) in 2010 from the coast of state of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil. The highest concentrations ranged, in ng g(-1), from 192 to 13,708, 3.41 to 7554 and <0.11 to 840 for PAHs, PCBs and DDTs, respectively. Similar distribution pattern was presented, with lower concentrations on the relatively less urbanized and industrialized southern coast, and the highest values in the central portion of the coastline, which is affected by both waste disposal and large port and industrial complex. Additional samples were collected in this central area and PCB concentrations, in ngg(-)(1), were much higher in 2012 (1569 to 10,504) than in 2009/2010 (173 to 309) and 2014 (411), which is likely related to leakages of the PCB commercial mixture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satie Taniguchi
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto Oceanográfico, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda I Colabuono
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto Oceanográfico, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Patrick S Dias
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto Oceanográfico, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Renato Oliveira
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto Oceanográfico, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mara Fisner
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto Oceanográfico, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexander Turra
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto Oceanográfico, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel M Izar
- Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Praça Infante D. Henrique s/n°, 11330-900 São Vicente, SP, Brazil
| | - Denis M S Abessa
- Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Praça Infante D. Henrique s/n°, 11330-900 São Vicente, SP, Brazil
| | - Mahua Saha
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junki Hosoda
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rei Yamashita
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideshige Takada
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rafael A Lourenço
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto Oceanográfico, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Caio A Magalhães
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto Oceanográfico, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Márcia C Bícego
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto Oceanográfico, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Rosalinda C Montone
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto Oceanográfico, Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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29
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Tue NM, Goto A, Takahashi S, Itai T, Asante KA, Kunisue T, Tanabe S. Release of chlorinated, brominated and mixed halogenated dioxin-related compounds to soils from open burning of e-waste in Agbogbloshie (Accra, Ghana). JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2016; 302:151-157. [PMID: 26474377 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2015.09.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Revised: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/27/2015] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Although complex mixtures of dioxin-related compounds (DRCs) can be released from informal e-waste recycling, DRC contamination in African e-waste recycling sites has not been investigated. This study examined the concentrations of DRCs including chlorinated, brominated, mixed halogenated dibenzo-p-dioxins/dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs, PBDD/Fs, PXDD/Fs) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs) in surface soil samples from the Agbogbloshie e-waste recycling site in Ghana. PCDD/F and PBDD/F concentrations in open burning areas (18-520 and 83-3800 ng/g dry, respectively) were among the highest reported in soils from informal e-waste sites. The concentrations of PCDFs and PBDFs were higher than those of the respective dibenzo-p-dioxins, suggesting combustion and PBDE-containing plastics as principal sources. PXDFs were found as more abundant than PCDFs, and higher brominated analogues occurred at higher concentrations. The median total WHO toxic equivalent (TEQ) concentration in open burning soils was 7 times higher than the U.S. action level (1000 pg/g), with TEQ contributors in the order of PBDFs>>PCDD/Fs>PXDFs. DRC emission to soils over the e-waste site as of 2010 was estimated, from surface soil lightness based on the correlations between concentrations and lightness, at 200mg (95% confidence interval 93-540 mg) WHO-TEQ over three years. People living in Agbogbloshie are potentially exposed to high levels of not only chlorinated but also brominated DRCs, and human health implications need to be assessed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Minh Tue
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
| | - Akitoshi Goto
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
| | - Shin Takahashi
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan; Center of Advanced Technology for the Environment, Faculty of Agriculture, Ehime University, 3-5-7 Tarumi, Matsuyama 790-8566, Japan.
| | - Takaaki Itai
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
| | - Kwadwo Ansong Asante
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan; CSIR Water Research Institute, P.O. AH 38, Achimota, Accra, Ghana
| | - Tatsuya Kunisue
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Tanabe
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, 2-5 Bunkyo-cho, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan
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30
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Yeo BG, Takada H, Taylor H, Ito M, Hosoda J, Allinson M, Connell S, Greaves L, McGrath J. POPs monitoring in Australia and New Zealand using plastic resin pellets, and International Pellet Watch as a tool for education and raising public awareness on plastic debris and POPs. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 101:137-145. [PMID: 26586511 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Revised: 11/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants (i.e. PCBs, DDTs, and HCHs) were analyzed along Australia and New Zealand North Island coastlines. PCB concentrations were high in urban areas (107-294 ng/g-pellet), with Sydney Harbour the most polluted. Hepta-chlorinated PCB was abundant, with ~30% in urban areas suggesting legacy pollution. DDT concentrations showed similar pattern except in rural agricultural sites, Taupo Bay and Ahipara, New Zealand (23 and 47 ng/g-pellet). p,p'-DDE predominance at these 2 sites suggested historical input; they also had high HCH concentrations (17 and 29 ng/g-pellet). The role of International Pellet Watch (IPW) in science communication was studied through feedbacks from IPW volunteers, case studies and examples. IPW data were categorized into understandable terms and tailored reports based on volunteers' backgrounds complemented with pollution maps. The effectiveness of IPW science communication has led to its use in awareness and education activities focusing on both POPs and plastic debris issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bee Geok Yeo
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Hideshige Takada
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan.
| | - Heidi Taylor
- Tangaroa Blue Foundation, PO Box 757, Port Douglas, QLD 4877, Australia
| | - Maki Ito
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Junki Hosoda
- Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (LOG), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Mayumi Allinson
- CAPIM: Centre for Aquatic Pollution Identification and Management, School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Grattan St, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | | | - Laura Greaves
- Sustainable Coastlines, Level 1, 54 Upper Queen St., Eden Terrace, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - John McGrath
- Surfrider Capricorn Coast Branch, 7 Raymond Tce, Yeppoon, QLD 4703, Australia
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31
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Wittsiepe J, Fobil JN, Till H, Burchard GD, Wilhelm M, Feldt T. Levels of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and biphenyls (PCBs) in blood of informal e-waste recycling workers from Agbogbloshie, Ghana, and controls. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2015; 79:65-73. [PMID: 25797584 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Revised: 03/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The formation and environmental release of highly toxic organohalogen compounds associated with informal recycling of waste electric and electronic equipment (e-waste) is a growing problem at e-waste dumps/recycling sites (EWRSs) in many developing countries worldwide. We chose a cross-sectional study design to measure the internal exposure to polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) as well as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) of individuals working on one of the largest EWRSs of Africa, located at Agbogbloshie, Accra, Ghana, and in controls from a suburb of Accra without direct exposure to EWRS activities. In whole blood samples of 21 age matched male exposed individuals (mean age: 24.7 years, SD 6.0) and 21 male controls (mean age: 24.4 years, SD 5.7) 17 PCDD/F congeners were determined. Moreover three indicator PCB congeners (#138, #153 and #180) were measured in blood of 39 exposed (mean age: 27.5 years, SD 11.7) and 19 non-exposed (mean age: 26.8 years, SD 9.7) patients. Besides a health examination, biometric and demographic data, residential and occupational history, occupational exposures and working conditions were recorded using a standardized questionnaire. In the exposed group, median PCDD/F-concentrations were 6.18 pg/g lipid base WHO2005-TEq (range: 2.1-42.7) and significantly higher compared to the control group with 4.60 pg/g lipid base WHO2005-TEq (range: 1.6-11.6). Concentrations were different for 2,3,7,8-TetraCDD, three HexaCDD and all 10 PCDF congeners, indicating a combustion pattern. Using a multivariate regression analysis exposure to EWRS activities was the most important determinant for PCDD/F exposure. Median PCB levels for the indicator congeners #138, #153 and #180 were 0.011, 0.019 and 0.008 μg/l whole blood (ranges: 0.002-0.18, 0.003-0.16, 0.002-0.078) in the exposed group and, surprisingly, significantly higher in the controls (0.037, 0.062 and 0.022; ranges: 0.005-0.46, 0.010-0.46, 0.004-0.21). In a multivariate regression approach e-waste related activities had no positive influence on internal PCB exposure, but rather the time living in Accra. The internal PCB exposure is in particular notable for a country where PCBs have historically never been produced or used. The impact of EWRS activities on organohalogen compound exposure of individuals working at and living in the surroundings of the Agbogbloshie EWRS, and the surprisingly high PCB exposure of people living in Accra not involved in e-waste activities require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Wittsiepe
- Department of Hygiene, Social and Environmental Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
| | - Julius N Fobil
- Department of Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG13, Legon, Ghana
| | - Holger Till
- GIZ-Regional Coordination Unit for HIV & TB (GiZ-ReCHT), P.O. Box 9698, K.I.A. 32, Cantonment Crescent, Cantonment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Gerd-Dieter Burchard
- Clinical Research Unit, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Bernhard-Nocht Str. 74, 20359 Hamburg, Germany; Department of Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Wilhelm
- Department of Hygiene, Social and Environmental Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Torsten Feldt
- Clinical Research Unit, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Bernhard-Nocht Str. 74, 20359 Hamburg, Germany; Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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