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Pizzini S, Giubilato E, Morabito E, Barbaro E, Bonetto A, Calgaro L, Feltracco M, Semenzin E, Vecchiato M, Zangrando R, Gambaro A, Marcomini A. Contaminants of emerging concern in water and sediment of the Venice Lagoon, Italy. Environ Res 2024; 249:118401. [PMID: 38331156 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates for the first time the contamination of water and sediment of the Venice Lagoon by twenty Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs): three hormones, six pharmaceutical compounds (diclofenac and five antibiotics, three of which are macrolides), nine pesticides (methiocarb, oxadiazon, metaflumizone, triallate, and five neonicotinoids), one antioxidant (BHT), and one UV filter (EHMC). Water and sediment samples were collected in seven sites in four seasons, with the aim of investigating the occurrence, distribution, and possible emission sources of the selected CECs in the studied transitional environment. The most frequently detected contaminants in water were neonicotinoid insecticides (with a frequency of quantification of single contaminants ranging from 73% to 92%), and EHMC (detected in the 77% of samples), followed by BHT (42%), diclofenac (39%), and clarithromycin (35%). In sediment the highest quantification frequencies were those of BHT (54%), estrogens (ranging from 35% to 65%), and azithromycin (46%). Although this baseline study does not highlight seasonal or spatial trends, results suggested that two of the major emission sources of CECs in the Venice Lagoon could be tributary rivers from its drainage basin and treated wastewater, due to the limited removal rates of some CECs in WWTPs. These preliminary results call for further investigations to better map priority emission sources and improve the understanding of CECs environmental behavior, with the final aim of drawing up a site-specific Watch List of CECs for the Venice Lagoon and support the design of more comprehensive monitoring plans in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Pizzini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy; Institute for Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnology, National Research Council (CNR-IRBIM), Largo Fiera della Pesca, 2, 60125, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
| | - Elisa Morabito
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
| | - Elena Barbaro
- Institute of Polar Sciences, National Research Council (CNR-ISP), Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
| | - Alessandro Bonetto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
| | - Loris Calgaro
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
| | - Matteo Feltracco
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
| | - Elena Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
| | - Marco Vecchiato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
| | - Roberta Zangrando
- Institute of Polar Sciences, National Research Council (CNR-ISP), Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
| | - Andrea Gambaro
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice Mestre (VE), Italy.
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Asnicar D, Fabrello J, Ciscato M, Masiero L, Marin MG, Corami F, Milan M, Bernardini I, Patarnello T, Cecchetto M, Giubilato E, Bettiol C, Semenzin E, Matozzo V. A multibiomarker approach in clams (Ruditapes philippinarum) for a toxicological evaluation of dredged sediments. Environ Pollut 2024; 342:123095. [PMID: 38070644 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The Lagoon of Venice is often dredged for channel maintenance. To avoid harmful consequences to the ecosystem, a proper disposal of bottom sediments requires a preliminary evaluation of its potential toxicity before excavation. Here we evaluated the effects of polluted sediments on clams (Ruditapes philippinarum) using a multibiomarker approach. Bivalves were exposed for 3 and 14 days to five sediment samples collected along a navigation canal between Venice historical centre and the industrial area of Porto Marghera. Immunological, antioxidant, detoxification, and neurotoxicity biomarkers were analysed in haemolymph, gill, and digestive gland. As a control, sediment collected far from pollution sources was used. Two experiments were performed to assess potential seasonal/gametogenic influence in clam sensitivity. A different response of clam biomarkers was observed during the two experiments and among sampling sites. Clams' digestive gland resulted to be the most sensitive tissue analysed showing significant differences among sites in all biomarkers analysed. Greater differences were present due to seasonality rather than exposure. The concentrations of metals and organic pollutants increased from the city centre to the industrial area, highlighting the influence that industrial activities had on the lagoon ecosystem. However, bioaccumulation in clams did not follow the same clear pattern, suggesting low bioavailability of compounds due to relatively high organic matter content. Biomarkers modulation was mainly driven by metals, both present in sediments and bioaccumulated. In comparison, effects of organic pollutants on the biomarkers tested were negligible. Other sources of contamination not investigated (e.g. pesticides) were suggested by neurotoxicity biomarkers alteration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Asnicar
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy; Aquatic Bioscience, Huntsman Marine Science Centre, 1 Lower Campus Road, E5B 2L7, St Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Jacopo Fabrello
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Ciscato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Luciano Masiero
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Marin
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Fabiana Corami
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy; Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR-ISP, Campus Scientifico - Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Massimo Milan
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bernardini
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Tomaso Patarnello
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Martina Cecchetto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Cinzia Bettiol
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Elena Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Valerio Matozzo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padova, Italy.
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Cecchetto M, Giubilato E, Bernardini I, Bettiol C, Asnicar D, Bertolini C, Fabrello J, Bonetto A, Peruzza L, Ciscato M, Matozzo V, Marin MG, Bargelloni L, Patarnello T, Marcomini A, Milan M, Semenzin E. A Weight of Evidence approach to support the assessment of the quality of Manila clam farming sites in a coastal lagoon. Mar Pollut Bull 2023; 197:115668. [PMID: 37922751 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Aquaculture productivity in coastal lagoons is endangered by a complex interplay of anthropogenic and environmental factors, amplified by the effects of climate change in these sensitive areas. To reach a more comprehensive assessment of farming sites quality, a quantitative Weight of Evidence approach (QWoE) is applied for the first time to data collected at four Manila clam (R. philippinarum) farming sites in the Venice lagoon (Italy). This included sediment quality, chemical bioaccumulation, and biological responses. Results revealed a greater hazard for sites closer to the open sea. In these areas, the combination of sediment characteristics and a higher frequency of salinity and temperature stress could explain the alterations measured at a transcriptional and biomarker level. The findings demonstrate that a QWoE approach that integrates multiple sources of evidence should also include physicochemical conditions in order to better understand the impacts of human activities and other stressors on clam aquaculture productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Cecchetto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - E Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - I Bernardini
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - C Bettiol
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - D Asnicar
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy; Aquatic Bioscience, Huntsman Marine Science Centre, 1 Lower Campus Road, E5B2L7 St. Andrews, NB, Canada
| | - C Bertolini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - J Fabrello
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - A Bonetto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - L Peruzza
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - M Ciscato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - V Matozzo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - M G Marin
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - L Bargelloni
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - T Patarnello
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy; NFBC, National Future Biodiversity Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - A Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - M Milan
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy; NFBC, National Future Biodiversity Center, Palermo, Italy.
| | - E Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre-Venezia, Italy.
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Bernardini I, Quagliariello A, Peruzza L, Martino ME, Dalla Rovere G, Iori S, Asnicar D, Ciscato M, Fabrello J, Corami F, Cecchetto M, Giubilato E, Carrer C, Bettiol C, Semenzin E, Marcomini A, Matozzo V, Bargelloni L, Milan M, Patarnello T. Contaminants from dredged sediments alter the transcriptome of Manila clam and induce shifts in microbiota composition. BMC Biol 2023; 21:234. [PMID: 37880625 PMCID: PMC10601118 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01741-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The reuse of dredged sediments in ports and lagoons is a big issue as it should not affect the quality and the equilibrium of ecosystems. In the lagoon of Venice, sediment management is of crucial importance as sediments are often utilized to built-up structures necessary to limit erosion. However, the impact of sediment reuse on organisms inhabiting this delicate area is poorly known. The Manila clam is a filter-feeding species of high economic and ecological value for the Venice lagoon experiencing a drastic decline in the last decades. In order to define the molecular mechanisms behind sediment toxicity, we exposed clams to sediments sampled from different sites within one of the Venice lagoon navigable canals close to the industrial area. Moreover, we investigated the impacts of dredged sediments on clam's microbial communities. RESULTS Concentrations of the trace elements and organic chemicals showed increasing concentrations from the city of Venice to sites close to the industrial area of Porto Marghera, where PCDD/Fs and PCBs concentrations were up to 120 times higher than the southern lagoon. While bioaccumulation of organic contaminants of industrial origin reflected sediments' chemical concentrations, metal bioaccumulation was not consistent with metal concentrations measured in sediments probably due to the activation of ABC transporters. At the transcriptional level, we found a persistent activation of the mTORC1 signalling pathway, which is central in the coordination of cellular responses to chemical stress. Microbiota characterization showed the over-representation of potential opportunistic pathogens following exposure to the most contaminated sediments, leading to host immune response activation. Despite the limited acquisition of new microbial species from sediments, the latter play an important role in shaping Manila clam microbial communities. CONCLUSIONS Sediment management in the Venice lagoon will increase in the next years to maintain and create new canals as well as to allow the operation of the new mobile gates at the three Venice lagoon inlets. Our data reveal important transcriptional and microbial changes of Manila clams after exposure to sediments, therefore reuse of dredged sediments represents a potential risk for the conservation of this species and possibly for other organisms inhabiting the Venice lagoon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Bernardini
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale Dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Andrea Quagliariello
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale Dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Luca Peruzza
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale Dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Martino
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale Dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Giulia Dalla Rovere
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale Dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Silvia Iori
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale Dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Davide Asnicar
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padua, Italy
- Aquatic Bioscience, Huntsman Marine Science Centre, 1 Lower Campus Road, E5B 2L7, St Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Maria Ciscato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Jacopo Fabrello
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Fabiana Corami
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice-Mestre, Italy
- Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR-ISP, Foscari University of Venice, Campus Scientifico - CaVia Torino, 155, 30172, Venice-Mestre, Italy
| | - Martina Cecchetto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice-Mestre, Italy
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice-Mestre, Italy
| | - Claudio Carrer
- Thetis S.P.a. C/o laboratorio del Provveditorato Interregionale Alle Opere Pubbliche Per Il Veneto, Il Trentino Alto Adige E Il Friuli Venezia Giulia, Venice-Mestre, Italy
| | - Cinzia Bettiol
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice-Mestre, Italy
| | - Elena Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice-Mestre, Italy
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172, Venice-Mestre, Italy
| | - Valerio Matozzo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35131, Padua, Italy
| | - Luca Bargelloni
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale Dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Massimo Milan
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale Dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy.
- NFBC, National Future Biodiversity Center, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Tomaso Patarnello
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale Dell'Università 16, Agripolis, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
- NFBC, National Future Biodiversity Center, Palermo, Italy
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Cecchetto M, Peruzza L, Giubilato E, Bernardini I, Rovere GD, Marcomini A, Regoli F, Bargelloni L, Patarnello T, Semenzin E, Milan M. An innovative index to incorporate transcriptomic data into weight of evidence approaches for environmental risk assessment. Environ Res 2023; 227:115745. [PMID: 36972774 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The sharp decrease in the cost of RNA-sequencing and the rapid improvement in computational analysis of eco-toxicogenomic data have brought new insights into the adverse effects of chemicals on aquatic organisms. Yet, transcriptomics is generally applied qualitatively in environmental risk assessments, hampering more effective exploitation of this evidence through multidisciplinary studies. In view of this limitation, a methodology is here presented to quantitatively elaborate transcriptional data in support to environmental risk assessment. The proposed methodology makes use of results from the application of Gene Set Enrichment Analysis to recent studies investigating the response of Mytilus galloprovincialis and Ruditapes philippinarum exposed to contaminants of emerging concern. The degree of changes in gene sets and the relevance of physiological reactions are integrated in the calculation of a hazard index. The outcome is then classified according to five hazard classes (from absent to severe), providing an evaluation of whole-transcriptome effects of chemical exposure. The application to experimental and simulated datasets proved that the method can effectively discriminate different levels of altered transcriptomic responses when compared to expert judgement (Spearman correlation coefficient of 0.96). A further application to data collected in two independent studies of Salmo trutta and Xenopus tropicalis exposed to contaminants confirmed the potential extension of the methodology to other aquatic species. This methodology can serve as a proof of concept for the integration of "genomic tools" in environmental risk assessment based on multidisciplinary investigations. To this end, the proposed transcriptomic hazard index can now be incorporated into quantitative Weight of Evidence approaches and weighed, with results from other types of analysis, to elucidate the role of chemicals in adverse ecological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Cecchetto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - Luca Peruzza
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bernardini
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Giulia Dalla Rovere
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - Francesco Regoli
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy; NFBC, National Future Biodiversity Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Luca Bargelloni
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Tomaso Patarnello
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - Elena Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre-Venezia, Italy.
| | - Massimo Milan
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, Padova, Italy; NFBC, National Future Biodiversity Center, Palermo, Italy
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Picone M, Russo M, Distefano GG, Baccichet M, Marchetto D, Volpi Ghirardini A, Lunde Hermansson A, Petrovic M, Gros M, Garcia E, Giubilato E, Calgaro L, Magnusson K, Granberg M, Marcomini A. Corrigendum to "Impacts of exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) discharge waters on planktonic biological indicators". Mar Pollut Bull 2023; 193:115152. [PMID: 37302205 PMCID: PMC10398749 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Picone
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy.
| | - Martina Russo
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Gabriele Giuseppe Distefano
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Marco Baccichet
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Davide Marchetto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Annamaria Volpi Ghirardini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Anna Lunde Hermansson
- Chalmers University of Technology, Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences, Hörselgången 4, 41756 Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Mira Petrovic
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), C. Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain; Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Passeig lluís companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Gros
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), C. Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain; University of Girona (UDG), Girona, Spain
| | - Elisa Garcia
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), C. Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain; University of Girona (UDG), Girona, Spain
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Loris Calgaro
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Kerstin Magnusson
- Swedish Environmental Research Institute (IVL), Kristineberg Marine Research Station, Kristineberg 566, 451 78 Fiskebäckskil, Sweden
| | - Maria Granberg
- Swedish Environmental Research Institute (IVL), Kristineberg Marine Research Station, Kristineberg 566, 451 78 Fiskebäckskil, Sweden
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
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7
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Picone M, Russo M, Distefano GG, Baccichet M, Marchetto D, Volpi Ghirardini A, Lunde Hermansson A, Petrovic M, Gros M, Garcia E, Giubilato E, Calgaro L, Magnusson K, Granberg M, Marcomini A. Impacts of exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) discharge waters on planktonic biological indicators. Mar Pollut Bull 2023; 190:114846. [PMID: 36965268 PMCID: PMC10152311 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (EGCS), operating in open-loop mode, continuously release acidic effluents (scrubber waters) to marine waters. Furthermore, scrubber waters contain high concentrations of metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and alkylated PAHs, potentially affecting the plankton in the receiving waters. Toxicity tests evidenced significant impairments in planktonic indicators after acute, early-life stage, and long-term exposures to scrubber water produced by a vessel operating with high sulphur fuel. Acute effects on bacterial bioluminescence (Aliivibrio fischeri), algal growth (Phaeodactylum tricornutum, Dunaliella tertiolecta), and copepod survival (Acartia tonsa) were evident at 10 % and 20 % scrubber water, while larval development in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) showed a 50 % reduction at ∼5 % scrubber water. Conversely, larval development and reproductive success of A. tonsa were severely affected at scrubber water concentrations ≤1.1 %, indicating the risk of severe impacts on copepod populations which in turn may result in impairment of the whole food web.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Picone
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy.
| | - Martina Russo
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Gabriele Giuseppe Distefano
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Marco Baccichet
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Davide Marchetto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Annamaria Volpi Ghirardini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Anna Lunde Hermansson
- Chalmers University of Technology, Department of Mechanics and Maritime Sciences, Hörselgången 4, 41756 Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Mira Petrovic
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), C. Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain; Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Passeig lluís companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Gros
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), C. Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain; University of Girona (UDG), Girona, Spain
| | - Elisa Garcia
- Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA), C. Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain; University of Girona (UDG), Girona, Spain
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Loris Calgaro
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Kerstin Magnusson
- Swedish Environmental Research Institute (IVL), Kristineberg Marine Research Station, Kristineberg 566, 451 78 Fiskebäckskil, Sweden
| | - Maria Granberg
- Swedish Environmental Research Institute (IVL), Kristineberg Marine Research Station, Kristineberg 566, 451 78 Fiskebäckskil, Sweden
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatic, and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy
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8
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Calgaro L, Giubilato E, Lamon L, Calore F, Semenzin E, Marcomini A. Emissions of pharmaceuticals and plant protection products to the lagoon of Venice: development of a new emission inventory. J Environ Manage 2023; 330:117153. [PMID: 36603246 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.117153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Estimating the emissions of chemical pollutants to water is a fundamental step for the development and application of effective and sustainable management strategies of water resources, but methods applied so far to build chemicals inventories at the European or national scale show several limitations when applied at the local scale. The issue is particularly relevant when considering contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), whose environmental releases and occurrence are still poorly studied and understood. In this work, an approach to estimate water emissions of nine active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and ten most applied plant protection products (PPPs) is presented, considering proxy indicators (e.g., sales data and census information). The application area is the lagoon of Venice (Italy), a complex transitional environment highly influenced by anthropic pressures (e.g., agricultural and industrial activities, animal breeding, and wastewater discharge). The presented approach can be tailored to the information available for any local scale case study. Data on annual regional sales of PPPs and APIs were integrated with georeferenced demographic and economic statistics (such as census and land-use information) to estimate chemicals emissions to surface water and groundwater. A sensitivity and uncertainty analysis identified the main factors affecting emissions estimates, and those contributing more significantly to results uncertainty. Results showed the highest estimated emissions of APIs for antibiotics (i.e., amoxicillin, clarithromycin, azithromycin, and ciprofloxacin) used for humans and animals, while most of hormones' emission (i.e., 17- α-ethinylestradiol and 17-β-estradiol) derived from animal breeding. Regarding PPPs, glyphosate and imidacloprid emissions were one to two orders of magnitude higher compared to the other chemicals. Uncertainty and sensitivity analysis showed that the variability of each parameter used to estimate emissions depends greatly both on the target chemical and the specific emission source considered. Excretion rates and removal during wastewater treatment were major key parameters for all the target pharmaceutical compounds, while for PPPs the key parameter was their loss into the natural waters after application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loris Calgaro
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice Mestre, Italy.
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice Mestre, Italy.
| | - Lara Lamon
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice Mestre, Italy.
| | - Francesco Calore
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice Mestre, Italy.
| | - Elena Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice Mestre, Italy.
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice Mestre, Italy.
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9
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Marchese E, Bizzotto EC, Giubilato E, Semenzin E, Marcomini A. Pre-industrial sediment concentrations of metals: insights from the Venice lagoon (Italy). Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2022; 29:85829-85838. [PMID: 36242659 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-23378-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the occurrence of selected metals and metalloids (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn) in radio-dated sediment cores from a coastal lagoon (Lagoon of Venice, Italy) by critically reviewing and grouping available data. Pre-industrial concentrations (pICs, estimated for the period before the early 1900s) for the Venice lagoon are identified according to the 2σ statistical procedure (2σ-pICs), i.e., the upper bound values of the dataset distribution. Results show the following 2σ-pICs (µg/g, d.w.): As 15,9; Cd 0,6; Cr 38,0; Cu 18,1; Hg 1,1; Ni 32,9; Pb 29,4; Zn 94,5. Most of the estimated 2σ-pICs are comparable to previously assessed background values. In the case of Hg, on the contrary, 2σ-pIC is remarkably higher than background values, reflecting a significant anthropogenic contribution also in the pre-industrial period. The results of this work may support the evaluation of the temporal evolution of metal concentrations in sediments of the Venice lagoon. Results are compared with background concentrations (BC) observed in previous studies conducted in the lagoon and in other areas of the Adriatic Sea, as well as with benchmarks set in Italy for sediment assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Marchese
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre-Venice, Italy
| | - Elisa Chiara Bizzotto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre-Venice, Italy
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre-Venice, Italy
| | - Elena Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre-Venice, Italy
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, via Torino 155, 30172, Mestre-Venice, Italy.
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10
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Cazzagon V, Giubilato E, Bonetto A, Blosi M, Zanoni I, Costa AL, Vineis C, Varesano A, Marcomini A, Hristozov D, Semenzin E, Badetti E. Identification of the safe(r) by design alternatives for nanosilver-enabled wound dressings. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:987650. [PMID: 36312555 PMCID: PMC9614711 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.987650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of silver nanoparticles (NPs) in medical devices is constantly increasing due to their excellent antimicrobial properties. In wound dressings, Ag NPs are commonly added in large excess to exert a long-term and constant antimicrobial effect, provoking an instantaneous release of Ag ions during their use or the persistence of unused NPs in the wound dressing that can cause a release of Ag during the end-of-life of the product. For this reason, a Safe-by-Design procedure has been developed to reduce potential environmental risks while optimizing functionality and costs of wound dressings containing Ag NPs. The SbD procedure is based on ad-hoc criteria (e.g., mechanical strength, antibacterial effect, leaching of Ag from the product immersed in environmental media) and permits to identify the best one among five pre-market alternatives. A ranking of the SbD alternatives was obtained and the safer solution was selected based on the selected SbD criteria. The SbD framework was also applied to commercial wound dressings to compare the SbD alternatives with products already on the market. The iterative procedure permitted to exclude one of the alternatives (based on its low mechanical strength) and proved to be an effective approach that can be replicated to support the ranking, prioritisation, and selection of the most promising options early in the innovation process of nano-enabled medical devices as well as to encourage the production of medical devices safer for the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- V. Cazzagon
- Department of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - E. Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Venice Mestre, Italy
- GreenDecision Srl, Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - A. Bonetto
- Department of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - M. Blosi
- Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics (CNR-ISTEC), National Research Council of Italy, Faenza, Italy
| | - I. Zanoni
- Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics (CNR-ISTEC), National Research Council of Italy, Faenza, Italy
| | - A. L. Costa
- Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics (CNR-ISTEC), National Research Council of Italy, Faenza, Italy
| | - C. Vineis
- Institute of Intelligent Industrial Technologies and Systems for Advanced Manufacturing (CNR-STIIMA), National Research Council of Italy, Biella, Italy
| | - A. Varesano
- Institute of Intelligent Industrial Technologies and Systems for Advanced Manufacturing (CNR-STIIMA), National Research Council of Italy, Biella, Italy
| | - A. Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - D. Hristozov
- Department of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Venice Mestre, Italy
- GreenDecision Srl, Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - E. Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Venice Mestre, Italy
- *Correspondence: E. Semenzin, ; E. Badetti,
| | - E. Badetti
- Department of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Venice Mestre, Italy
- *Correspondence: E. Semenzin, ; E. Badetti,
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11
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Powell LG, Gillies S, Fernandes TF, Murphy F, Giubilato E, Cazzagon V, Hristozov D, Pizzol L, Blosi M, Costa AL, Prina-Mello A, Bouwmeester H, Sarimveis H, Janer G, Stone V. Developing Integrated Approaches for Testing and Assessment (IATAs) in order to support nanomaterial safety. Nanotoxicology 2022; 16:484-499. [PMID: 35913849 DOI: 10.1080/17435390.2022.2103470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Due to the unique characteristics of nanomaterials (NM) there has been an increase in their use in nanomedicines and innovative medical devices (MD). Although large numbers of NMs have now been developed, comprehensive safety investigations are still lacking. Current gaps in understanding the potential mechanisms of NM-induced toxicity can make it challenging to determine the safety testing necessary to support inclusion of NMs in MD applications. This article provides guidance for implementation of pre-clinical tailored safety assessment strategies with the aim to increase the translation of NMs from bench development to clinical use. Integrated Approaches to Testing and Assessment (IATAs) are a key tool in developing these strategies. IATAs follow an iterative approach to answer a defined question in a specific regulatory context to guide the gathering of relevant information for safety assessment, including existing experimental data, integrated with in silico model predictions where available and appropriate, and/or experimental procedures and protocols for generating new data to fill gaps. This allows NM developers to work toward current guidelines and regulations, while taking NM specific considerations into account. Here, an example IATA for NMs with potential for direct blood contact was developed for the assessment of haemocompatibility. This example IATA brings together the current guidelines for NM safety assessment within a framework that can be used to guide information and data gathering for the safety assessment of intravenously injected NMs. Additionally, the decision framework underpinning this IATA has the potential to be adapted to other testing needs and regulatory contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - S Gillies
- Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - F Murphy
- Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - E Giubilato
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Venice, Italy.,GreenDecision Srl, Venice, Italy
| | - V Cazzagon
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - D Hristozov
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - L Pizzol
- GreenDecision Srl, Venice, Italy
| | - M Blosi
- Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics, CNR, Italy
| | - A L Costa
- Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics, CNR, Italy
| | - A Prina-Mello
- Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - H Bouwmeester
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - H Sarimveis
- National Technical University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - G Janer
- Leitat Technological Centre, Barcelona, Spain
| | - V Stone
- Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
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12
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Bizzotto EC, Semenzin E, Giubilato E, Frisario S, Zaninetta L, Bonfedi G, Villani F, Marcomini A. Ecological risk assessment for contaminated sites in Italy: Guidelines and path forward. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022. [PMID: 35734983 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Ecological risk assessment (ERA) is defined as an iterative process that evaluates the likelihood of adverse ecological effects resulting from exposure to one or more stressors. Although ERA is recognized as a valuable procedure to better address efforts and strategies for site remediation, in Europe a common framework for the implementation of ERA in the management of contaminated sites is lacking. In Italy, there are no legally binding provisions regulating the direct assessment of potential likelihood of ecological risks. In this context, the main objective of this article was to develop a guideline to facilitate ERA application in support of an effective and sustainable management of contaminated sites in Italy and to facilitate a multistakeholder dialogue. The work was based on a critical review of existing ERA guidelines in the international context, as well as other regulatory documents and technical approaches dealing with the evaluation of ecological effects of chemical contaminants in different environmental compartments. Approaches and tools available in these documents were then used to prepare a proposed guideline for the Italian context; the proposed ERA guideline is meant to represent a flexible but robust approach that can be useful in evaluating existing data (e.g., from past investigations) as well as in the planning of site-specific investigations. To facilitate the direct application of the ERA procedure, the guideline was prepared including several templates of summary tables, checklists, and examples. The proposed ERA guideline could facilitate the decision-making process for contaminated sites with ecological values, although its application would necessarily require, at least in the initial phase, testing of its suitability to the Italian context and setting-up of a close dialogue and collaboration with local authorities and other stakeholders. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;00:1-7. © 2022 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Chiara Bizzotto
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica, Università Ca' Foscari di Venezia, Mestre-Venezia, Italy
- Fondazione Università Ca' Foscari, Venezia, Italy
| | - Elena Semenzin
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica, Università Ca' Foscari di Venezia, Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica, Università Ca' Foscari di Venezia, Mestre-Venezia, Italy
- Fondazione Università Ca' Foscari, Venezia, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Antonio Marcomini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica, Università Ca' Foscari di Venezia, Mestre-Venezia, Italy
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13
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Cazzagon V, Giubilato E, Pizzol L, Ravagli C, Doumett S, Baldi G, Blosi M, Brunelli A, Fito C, Huertas F, Marcomini A, Semenzin E, Zabeo A, Zanoni I, Hristozov D. Occupational risk of nano-biomaterials: Assessment of nano-enabled magnetite contrast agent using the BIORIMA Decision Support System. NanoImpact 2022; 25:100373. [PMID: 35559879 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2021.100373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The assessment of the safety of nano-biomedical products for patients is an essential prerequisite for their market authorization. However, it is also required to ensure the safety of the workers who may be unintentionally exposed to the nano-biomaterials (NBMs) in these medical applications during their synthesis, formulation into products and end-of-life processing and also of the medical professionals (e.g., nurses, doctors, dentists) using the products for treating patients. There is only a handful of workplace risk assessments focussing on NBMs used in medical applications. Our goal is to contribute to increasing the knowledge in this area by assessing the occupational risks of magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles coated with PLGA-b-PEG-COOH used as contrast agent in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) by applying the software-based Decision Support System (DSS) which was developed in the EU H2020 project BIORIMA. The occupational risk assessment was performed according to regulatory requirements and using state-of-the-art models for hazard and exposure assessment, which are part of the DSS. Exposure scenarios for each life cycle stage were developed using data from literature, inputs from partnering industries and results of a questionnaire distributed to healthcare professionals, i.e., physicians, nurses, technicians working with contrast agents for MRI. Exposure concentrations were obtained either from predictive exposure models or monitoring campaigns designed specifically for this study. Derived No-Effect Levels (DNELs) were calculated by means of the APROBA tool starting from in vivo hazard data from literature. The exposure estimates/measurements and the DNELs were used to perform probabilistic risk characterisation for the formulated exposure scenarios, including uncertainty analysis. The obtained results revealed negligible risks for workers along the life cycle of magnetite NBMs used as contrast agent for the diagnosis of tumour cells in all exposure scenarios except in one when risk is considered acceptable after the adoption of specific risk management measures. The study also demonstrated the added value of using the BIORIMA DSS for quantification and communication of occupational risks of nano-biomedical applications and the associated uncertainties.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Cazzagon
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari of Venice, via Torino 155, 30170 Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - E Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari of Venice, via Torino 155, 30170 Venice Mestre, Italy; GreenDecision S.r.l., 30170 Venice Mestre, Italy.
| | - L Pizzol
- GreenDecision S.r.l., 30170 Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - C Ravagli
- COLOROBBIA CONSULTING S.r.l., Ce.Ri.Col. Centro Ricerche Colorobbia, Via Pietramarina, 123, 50053 Sovigliana, Vinci (FI), Italy
| | - S Doumett
- COLOROBBIA CONSULTING S.r.l., Ce.Ri.Col. Centro Ricerche Colorobbia, Via Pietramarina, 123, 50053 Sovigliana, Vinci (FI), Italy
| | - G Baldi
- COLOROBBIA CONSULTING S.r.l., Ce.Ri.Col. Centro Ricerche Colorobbia, Via Pietramarina, 123, 50053 Sovigliana, Vinci (FI), Italy
| | - M Blosi
- Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics (CNR-ISTEC), National Research Council of Italy, Via Granarolo 64, 48018 Faenza, RA, Italy
| | - A Brunelli
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari of Venice, via Torino 155, 30170 Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - C Fito
- ITENE, C/ Albert Einstein, 1, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - F Huertas
- ITENE, C/ Albert Einstein, 1, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - A Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari of Venice, via Torino 155, 30170 Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - E Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari of Venice, via Torino 155, 30170 Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - A Zabeo
- GreenDecision S.r.l., 30170 Venice Mestre, Italy
| | - I Zanoni
- Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics (CNR-ISTEC), National Research Council of Italy, Via Granarolo 64, 48018 Faenza, RA, Italy
| | - D Hristozov
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari of Venice, via Torino 155, 30170 Venice Mestre, Italy.
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14
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Giubilato E, Cazzagon V, Amorim MJB, Blosi M, Bouillard J, Bouwmeester H, Costa AL, Fadeel B, Fernandes TF, Fito C, Hauser M, Marcomini A, Nowack B, Pizzol L, Powell L, Prina-Mello A, Sarimveis H, Scott-Fordsmand JJ, Semenzin E, Stahlmecke B, Stone V, Vignes A, Wilkins T, Zabeo A, Tran L, Hristozov D. Risk Management Framework for Nano-Biomaterials Used in Medical Devices and Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products. Materials (Basel) 2020; 13:E4532. [PMID: 33066064 PMCID: PMC7601697 DOI: 10.3390/ma13204532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The convergence of nanotechnology and biotechnology has led to substantial advancements in nano-biomaterials (NBMs) used in medical devices (MD) and advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMP). However, there are concerns that applications of NBMs for medical diagnostics, therapeutics and regenerative medicine could also pose health and/or environmental risks since the current understanding of their safety is incomplete. A scientific strategy is therefore needed to assess all risks emerging along the life cycles of these products. To address this need, an overarching risk management framework (RMF) for NBMs used in MD and ATMP is presented in this paper, as a result of a collaborative effort of a team of experts within the EU Project BIORIMA and with relevant inputs from external stakeholders. The framework, in line with current regulatory requirements, is designed according to state-of-the-art approaches to risk assessment and management of both nanomaterials and biomaterials. The collection/generation of data for NBMs safety assessment is based on innovative integrated approaches to testing and assessment (IATA). The framework can support stakeholders (e.g., manufacturers, regulators, consultants) in systematically assessing not only patient safety but also occupational (including healthcare workers) and environmental risks along the life cycle of MD and ATMP. The outputs of the framework enable the user to identify suitable safe(r)-by-design alternatives and/or risk management measures and to compare the risks of NBMs to their (clinical) benefits, based on efficacy, quality and cost criteria, in order to inform robust risk management decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca’ Foscari of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Venice, Italy; (E.G.); (V.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Virginia Cazzagon
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca’ Foscari of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Venice, Italy; (E.G.); (V.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Mónica J. B. Amorim
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Magda Blosi
- Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics, National Research Council of Italy (CNR-ISTEC), Via Granarolo 64, 48018 Faenza, Italy; (M.B.); (A.L.C.)
| | - Jacques Bouillard
- Institut National de l’Environnement industriel et des Risques, Parc Technologique ALATA, 60550 Verneuil-en-Halatte, France; (J.B.); (A.V.)
| | - Hans Bouwmeester
- Division of Toxicology, Wageningen University, 6708 WE Wageningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Anna Luisa Costa
- Institute of Science and Technology for Ceramics, National Research Council of Italy (CNR-ISTEC), Via Granarolo 64, 48018 Faenza, Italy; (M.B.); (A.L.C.)
| | - Bengt Fadeel
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Teresa F. Fernandes
- Institute of Life and Earth Sciences, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK;
| | - Carlos Fito
- Instituto Tecnologico del Embalaje, Transporte y Logistica, 46980 Paterna-Valencia, Spain;
| | - Marina Hauser
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland; (M.H.); (B.N.)
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca’ Foscari of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Venice, Italy; (E.G.); (V.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.)
| | - Bernd Nowack
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland; (M.H.); (B.N.)
| | - Lisa Pizzol
- GreenDecision Srl, Via delle Industrie, 21/8, 30175 Venice, Italy; (L.P.); (A.Z.)
| | - Leagh Powell
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK; (L.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Adriele Prina-Mello
- Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College, The University of Dublin, Dublin 8, Ireland;
| | - Haralambos Sarimveis
- School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 15780 Athens, Greece;
| | | | - Elena Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca’ Foscari of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Venice, Italy; (E.G.); (V.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.)
| | | | - Vicki Stone
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK; (L.P.); (V.S.)
| | - Alexis Vignes
- Institut National de l’Environnement industriel et des Risques, Parc Technologique ALATA, 60550 Verneuil-en-Halatte, France; (J.B.); (A.V.)
| | - Terry Wilkins
- Nanomanufacturing Institute, School of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
| | - Alex Zabeo
- GreenDecision Srl, Via delle Industrie, 21/8, 30175 Venice, Italy; (L.P.); (A.Z.)
| | - Lang Tran
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Research Avenue North, Riccarton, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, UK;
| | - Danail Hristozov
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca’ Foscari of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Venice, Italy; (E.G.); (V.C.); (A.M.); (E.S.)
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15
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Borsato E, Zucchinelli M, D'Ammaro D, Giubilato E, Zabeo A, Criscione P, Pizzol L, Cohen Y, Tarolli P, Lamastra L, Marinello F. Use of multiple indicators to compare sustainability performance of organic vs conventional vineyard management. Sci Total Environ 2020; 711:135081. [PMID: 31812436 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The wine sector is paying more attention to sustainable wine production practices, but this topic is highly debated because organic viticulture aims to a reduction of environmental impacts, while conventional viticulture ensures an increase of yield. This work provides an economic and environmental comparison using different indicators whereas no previous studies on viticulture have faced on both aspects of sustainability. Two distinct vineyards within the same case study farm were considered, where conventional and organic viticulture practices were applied for 5 years. For each type of production, we calculated the economic benefit and environmental indicators such as the Water Footprint, Carbon Footprint, and an indicator of environmental performance associated with the vineyard phase ("Vineyard Management" or "Vigneto" indicator part of the Italian VIVA certification framework). This latter considers six sub-indicators investigating pesticides management, fertilizers management, organic matter content, soil compaction, soil erosion, and landscape quality. The multi criteria approach is a novel framework assessing sustainability on vineyard management using environmental indicators from VIVA calculator and the economic aspect. Main results showed that organic management in viticulture can be applied without having economic losses and with the benefit of better preserving the natural capital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eros Borsato
- Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Agripolis, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy.
| | - Maria Zucchinelli
- Istituto di Chimica Agraria e Ambientale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29100 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Daniele D'Ammaro
- Istituto di Chimica Agraria e Ambientale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29100 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- GreenDecision s.r.l., Via delle industrie 21/8, 30175 Marghera, VE, Italy; Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre, VE, Italy
| | - Alex Zabeo
- GreenDecision s.r.l., Via delle industrie 21/8, 30175 Marghera, VE, Italy
| | - Paolo Criscione
- DESAM Ingegneria e Ambiente s.r.l., Via Girardini 13, 31021 Mogliano Veneto, Treviso, Italy
| | - Lisa Pizzol
- GreenDecision s.r.l., Via delle industrie 21/8, 30175 Marghera, VE, Italy
| | - Yafit Cohen
- Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Research Organization (Volcani Center), P.O. Box 15159, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Paolo Tarolli
- Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Agripolis, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Lamastra
- Istituto di Chimica Agraria e Ambientale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29100 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Francesco Marinello
- Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Agripolis, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy
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16
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Semenzin E, Giubilato E, Badetti E, Picone M, Volpi Ghirardini A, Hristozov D, Brunelli A, Marcomini A. Guiding the development of sustainable nano-enabled products for the conservation of works of art: proposal for a framework implementing the Safe by Design concept. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2019; 26:26146-26158. [PMID: 31280439 PMCID: PMC6717188 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-05819-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Nanotechnology provides innovative and promising solutions for the conservation of cultural heritage, but the development and application of new nano-enabled products pose concerns regarding their human health and environmental risks. To address these issues, we propose a sustainability framework implementing the Safe by Design concept to support product developers in the early steps of product development, with the aim to provide safer nano-formulations for conservation, while retaining their functionality. In addition, this framework can support the assessment of sustainability of new products and their comparison to their conventional chemical counterparts if any. The goal is to promote the selection and use of safer and more sustainable nano-based products in different conservation contexts. The application of the proposed framework is illustrated through a hypothetical case which provides a realistic example of the methodological steps to be followed, tailored and iterated along the decision-making process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy.
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy
| | - Elena Badetti
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy
| | - Marco Picone
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy
| | - Annamaria Volpi Ghirardini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy
| | - Danail Hristozov
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Brunelli
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venice, Italy
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17
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Borsato E, Giubilato E, Zabeo A, Lamastra L, Criscione P, Tarolli P, Marinello F, Pizzol L. Comparison of Water-focused Life Cycle Assessment and Water Footprint Assessment: The case of an Italian wine. Sci Total Environ 2019; 666:1220-1231. [PMID: 30970487 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.02.331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, the debate on how to implement and measure sustainability in food production gained increasing importance and interest for agriculture. In the wine sector, producers are increasingly pursuing sustainable practices, including measures for water preservation from degradation and overuse. But methodologies for assessing and communicating the impacts on water resources need to be understood in detail to guide the selection of the most appropriate management practices, support environmental labelling and promote environmental-friendly products to consumers. This work focuses on the impacts on water resources associated with the production of Italian wine by comparing two methodologies: the Water-focused Life Cycle Assessment and the "Water" indicator included in the Italian "VIVA" certification framework, which is based on the Water Footprint Assessment. The two methodologies address the impact on freshwater consumption and degradation from a life cycle perspective. VIVA is based on a water balance method that reflects a volumetric measure of water consumption, while the LCA-based approach investigates both the freshwater consumption and depletion using different impact indicators. The study goal is to compare the two methodologies to understand how their outcomes can support and improve the management of water-related issues in wine production. One main conclusion is that the WATER indicator within VIVA framework can provide more precise recommendations for the optimal management of water use during the vineyard phase, while LCA approach highlights impact hotspots related to both direct and indirect use of water resources (e.g., it points out the relevant contribution of the bottling stage to different impact indicators). The comparative application of both methodologies can provide useful insights into the water-related impacts of different wine production processes and stages and support a comprehensive assessment of the best management practices, unless the differences in the methodological approaches and goals are well understood by assessors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eros Borsato
- Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Agripolis, 35020, Italy.
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- GreenDecision s.r.l., Via delle industrie 21/8, 30175 Marghera, VE, Italy; Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre, Italy
| | - Alex Zabeo
- GreenDecision s.r.l., Via delle industrie 21/8, 30175 Marghera, VE, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Lamastra
- Istituto di Chimica Agraria e Ambientale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Paolo Criscione
- DESAM Ingegneria e Ambiente s.r.l., 31021 Mogliano Veneto, Treviso, Italy
| | - Paolo Tarolli
- Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Agripolis, 35020, Italy
| | - Francesco Marinello
- Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Agripolis, 35020, Italy
| | - Lisa Pizzol
- GreenDecision s.r.l., Via delle industrie 21/8, 30175 Marghera, VE, Italy
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18
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Radomyski A, Lei K, Giubilato E, Critto A, Lin C, Marcomini A. Bioaccumulation of trace metals in aquatic food web. A case study, Liaodong Bay, NE China. Mar Pollut Bull 2018; 137:555-565. [PMID: 30503468 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The recently developed modelling tool MERLIN-Expo was applied to support the exposure assessment of an aquatic food web to trace metals in a coastal environment. The exposure scenario, built on the data from Daliao River estuary in the Liaodong Bay (Bohai Sea, China), affected by long-term and large-scale industrial activities as well as rapid urbanization in Liao River watershed, represents an interesting case-study for ecological exposure modelling due to the availability of local data on metal concentrations in water and sediment. The bioaccumulation of selected trace metals in aquatic organisms was modelled and compared with field data from local aquatic organisms. Both model results and experimental data demonstrated that As, Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn, out of examined metals, were accumulated most abundantly by invertebrates and less by higher trophic level species. The body parts of the sampled animals with the highest measured concentration of metals were predominantly muscles, intestine and liver and fish skin in the case of Cr. The Morris and extended Fourier Analysis (EFAST) were used to account for variability in selected parameters of the bioaccumulation model. Food assimilation efficiency and slopes and intercepts of two sub-models for calculating metal specific BCFs (BCFmetal-exposure concentration) and fish weight (Weightfish-Lengthfish) were identified as the most influential parameters on ecological exposure to selected metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Radomyski
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venice, Italy
| | - Kai Lei
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, 100875 Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Critto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venice, Italy.
| | - Chunye Lin
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, 100875 Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venice, Italy
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19
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Rizzo E, Pizzol L, Zabeo A, Giubilato E, Critto A, Cosmo L, Marcomini A. An Information System for Brownfield Regeneration: providing customised information according to stakeholders' characteristics and needs. J Environ Manage 2018; 217:144-156. [PMID: 29602075 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2018.03.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 03/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In the EU brownfield presence is still considered a widespread problem. Even though, in the last decades, many research projects and initiatives developed a wealth of methods, guidelines, tools and technologies aimed at supporting brownfield regeneration. However, this variety of products had and still has a limited practical impact on brownfield revitalisation success, because they are not used in their entire potential due to their scarce visibility. Also, another problem that stakeholders face is finding customised information. To overcome this non-visibility and not-sufficient customisation of information, the Information System for Brownfield Regeneration (ISBR) has been developed, based on Artificial Neural Networks, which allows understanding stakeholders' information needs by providing tailored information. The ISBR has been tested by stakeholders from the EU project TIMBRE case studies, located in the Czech Republic, Germany, Poland and Romania. Data gained during tests allowed to understand stakeholders' information needs. Overall, stakeholders showed to be concerned first on remediation aspects, then on benchmarking information, which are valuable to improve practices in the complex field of brownfield regeneration, and then on the relatively new issue of sustainability applied to brownfield regeneration and remediation. Mature markets confirmed their interest for remediation-related aspects, highlighting the central role that risk assessment plays in the process. Emerging markets showed to seek information and tools for strategic and planning issues, like brownfield inventories and georeferenced data sets. Results led to conclude that a new improved platform, combining the ISBR functionalities with geo-referenced ones, would be useful and could represent a further research application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Rizzo
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Italy
| | - Lisa Pizzol
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Italy
| | - Alex Zabeo
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Italy
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Critto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Italy.
| | - Luca Cosmo
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Italy
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Italy
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20
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Pesce M, Critto A, Torresan S, Giubilato E, Santini M, Zirino A, Ouyang W, Marcomini A. Modelling climate change impacts on nutrients and primary production in coastal waters. Sci Total Environ 2018; 628-629:919-937. [PMID: 30045581 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.02.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 02/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
There is high confidence that the anthropogenic increase of atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHGs) is causing modifications in the Earth's climate. Coastal waterbodies such as estuaries, bays and lagoons are among those most affected by the ongoing changes in climate. Being located at the land-sea interface, such waterbodies are subjected to the combined changes in the physical-chemical processes of atmosphere, upstream land and coastal waters. Particularly, climate change is expected to alter phytoplankton communities by changing their environmental drivers (especially climate-related), thus exacerbating the symptoms of eutrophication events, such as hypoxia, harmful algal blooms (HAB) and loss of habitat. A better understanding of the links between climate-related drivers and phytoplankton is therefore necessary for projecting climate change impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Here we present the case study of the Zero river basin in Italy, one of the main contributors of freshwater and nutrient to the salt-marsh Palude di Cona, a coastal waterbody belonging to the lagoon of Venice. To project the impacts of climate change on freshwater inputs, nutrient loadings and their effects on the phytoplankton community of the receiving waterbody, we formulated and applied an integrated modelling approach made of: climate simulations derived by coupling a General Circulation Model (GCM) and a Regional Climate Model (RCM) under alternative emission scenarios, the hydrological model Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and the ecological model AQUATOX. Climate projections point out an increase of precipitations in the winter period and a decrease in the summer months, while temperature shows a significant increase over the whole year. Water discharge and nutrient loads simulated by SWAT show a tendency to increase (decrease) in the winter (summer) period. AQUATOX projects changes in the concentration of nutrients in the salt-marsh Palude di Cona, and variations in the biomass and species of the phytoplankton community.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pesce
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Italy
| | - A Critto
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Italy; Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici, Italy.
| | - S Torresan
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Italy; Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici, Italy
| | | | - M Santini
- Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici, Italy
| | - A Zirino
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, CA, USA
| | - W Ouyang
- Beijing Normal University, China
| | - A Marcomini
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Italy; Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici, Italy
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21
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Cui X, Cheng H, Liu X, Giubilato E, Critto A, Sun H, Zhang L. Cadmium exposure and early renal effects in the children and adults living in a tungsten-molybdenum mining areas of South China. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2018; 25:15089-15101. [PMID: 29557043 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-1631-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Adverse health effects related to accumulative cadmium (Cd) exposure have aroused widespread attention from the public in China. Knowledge on the relationships between Cd exposure and early renal effects is particularly limited for children, who are more susceptible to absorbing metals than adults. A typical Cd-polluted area of South China was selected to determine the Cd exposure and related early renal effects of the general population, including children. In total, 211 children and 806 adults were enrolled in the study. The urinary levels of Cd (U-Cd), β2-microglobulin (U-BMG), retinol binding protein (U-RBP), and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (U-NAG) were measured. The relationship between U-Cd and ranked indicators of early renal effects was examined by multiple regression analysis. The average U-Cd ranged from 7.01 μg/g creatinine (boys) to 13.55 μg/g creatinine (women) in the Cd-polluted areas. These values are much higher than those of the control group and those that have been reported by other countries. In agreement with previous studies, environmental Cd pollution resulted in elevated Cd accumulation in the bodies of children, and it increased the concentration of NAG in their urine. Similarly, environmental Cd pollution increased NAG and BMG in the urine of adults. Multivariate models showed that the urinary excretion of BMG, RBP, and NAG was positively associated with Cd levels in the urine of both children and adults. The reference thresholds of U-Cd in relation to elevated U-BMG, U-RBP, and U-NAG were higher in children than adults after standardization for other covariates. These results reinforce the need to control and regulate the sources of environmental Cd contamination and to promote more effective risk management measures, especially for vulnerable groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangfen Cui
- School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, No. 19 Xinjiekouwai Street, Beijing, 100875, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongguang Cheng
- School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, No. 19 Xinjiekouwai Street, Beijing, 100875, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xuelian Liu
- Green Development Institute, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, People's Republic of China
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari, Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Critto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari, Venice, Italy.
| | - Haixu Sun
- School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, No. 19 Xinjiekouwai Street, Beijing, 100875, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Zhang
- School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, No. 19 Xinjiekouwai Street, Beijing, 100875, People's Republic of China
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22
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Radomyski A, Giubilato E, Suciu NA, Critto A, Ciffroy P. Modelling Bioaccumulation in Aquatic Organisms and in Mammals. Modelling the Fate of Chemicals in the Environment and the Human Body 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-59502-3_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
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23
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Zhong B, Giubilato E, Critto A, Wang L, Marcomini A, Zhang J. Probabilistic modeling of aggregate lead exposure in children of urban China using an adapted IEUBK model. Sci Total Environ 2017; 584-585:259-267. [PMID: 28187936 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.11.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Lead, a ubiquitous pollutant throughout the environment, is confirmed to be neurotoxic for children by pulmonary and oral routes. As preschool children in China continue to be exposed to lead, we analyzed the available biomonitoring data for preschool children in urban China collected in the period 2004-2014 through a literature review. To identify apportionment of lead exposure sources for urban children in China, we modified the IEUBK model with a Monte Carlo module to assess the uncertainty and variability of the model output based on limited available exposure data and compared the simulated blood lead levels with the observed ones obtained through literature review. Although children's blood lead levels in urban China decreased statistically over time for the included studies, changes in blood lead levels in three economic zones and seven age groups except for two age-specific groups were no longer significant. The GM-predicted BLLs and the GM-observed BLLs agreed within 1μg/dL for all fourteen cities. The 95% CIs for the predicted GMs and the observed distribution (GM±GSD) overlapped substantially. These results demonstrated the plausibility of blood lead prediction provided by the adapted IEUBK model. Lead exposure estimates for diet, soil/dust, air, and drinking water were 12.01±6.27μg/day, 2.69±0.89μg/day, 0.20±0.15μg/day, and 0.029±0.012μg/day, respectively. These findings showed that the reduction of lead concentrations in grains and vegetables would be beneficial to limit the risk of dietary lead exposure for a large proportion of preschool children in urban China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buqing Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre, Venice, Italy.
| | - Andrea Critto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre, Venice, Italy.
| | - Lingqing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre, Venice, Italy.
| | - Jinliang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
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24
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Rizzo E, Bardos P, Pizzol L, Critto A, Giubilato E, Marcomini A, Albano C, Darmendrail D, Döberl G, Harclerode M, Harries N, Nathanail P, Pachon C, Rodriguez A, Slenders H, Smith G. Comparison of international approaches to sustainable remediation. J Environ Manage 2016; 184:4-17. [PMID: 27520125 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2016.07.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2015] [Revised: 07/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Since mid-to-late 2000s growing interest for sustainable remediation has emerged in initiatives from several international and national organisations as well as other initiatives from networks and forums. This reflects a realisation that risk-management activities can about bring environmental, social, and economic impacts (positive or negative) in addition to achieving risk-based remediation goals. These ideas have begun to develop as a new discipline of "sustainable remediation". The various initiatives have now published a number of frameworks, standards, white papers, road maps and operative guidelines. The similarities and differences in the approaches by these outputs and general trends have been identified. The comparison is based on a set of criteria developed in discussion with members of these various initiatives, and identifies a range of similarities between their publications. Overall the comparison demonstrates a high level of consensus across definitions and principles, which leads to the conclusion that there is a shared understanding of what sustainable remediation is both across countries and stakeholder groups. Publications do differ in points of detail, in particular about the operational aspects of sustainable remediation assessment. These differences likely result from differences in context and legal framework. As this analysis was carried out its findings were debated with members of the various international initiatives, many of whom have been included as authors. Hence the outcomes described in this paper can be seen as the result of a sort of multi-level debate among international experts (authors) and so can offer a starting point to new sustainable remediation initiatives (for example in other countries) that aim to start developing their own documents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Rizzo
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Dept. of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Via delle Industrie 21/8, c/o INCA - VEGAPARK, 30175 Marghera-Venice, Italy
| | - Paul Bardos
- University of Brighton, Brighton, UK; r3 Environmental Technology Ltd., Reading, UK
| | - Lisa Pizzol
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Dept. of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Via delle Industrie 21/8, c/o INCA - VEGAPARK, 30175 Marghera-Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Critto
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Dept. of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Via delle Industrie 21/8, c/o INCA - VEGAPARK, 30175 Marghera-Venice, Italy.
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Dept. of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Via delle Industrie 21/8, c/o INCA - VEGAPARK, 30175 Marghera-Venice, Italy
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Dept. of Environmental Sciences Informatics and Statistics, Via delle Industrie 21/8, c/o INCA - VEGAPARK, 30175 Marghera-Venice, Italy
| | - Claudio Albano
- CH2MHILL, Via XXV Aprile, 2, S. Donato Milanese (Mi) 20097, Italy; SuRF Italy-RECONNET, Italy
| | | | - Gernot Döberl
- Environment Agency Austria, Department for Contaminated Sites, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Paul Nathanail
- University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Land Quality Management Ltd, Nottingham, UK
| | - Carlos Pachon
- US. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington DC, USA
| | | | - Hans Slenders
- Network for Industrially Contaminated Land in Europe, NICOLE Secretariat, P.O. Box 28249, 3003 KE Rotterdam, The Netherlands; ARCADIS Nederland B.V., Arnhem, The Netherlands
| | - Garry Smith
- Geosyntec Consultants, SuRF Australia, New Zealand
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Radomyski A, Giubilato E, Ciffroy P, Critto A, Brochot C, Marcomini A. Modelling ecological and human exposure to POPs in Venice lagoon - Part II: Quantitative uncertainty and sensitivity analysis in coupled exposure models. Sci Total Environ 2016; 569-570:1635-1649. [PMID: 27432731 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.07.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The study is focused on applying uncertainty and sensitivity analysis to support the application and evaluation of large exposure models where a significant number of parameters and complex exposure scenarios might be involved. The recently developed MERLIN-Expo exposure modelling tool was applied to probabilistically assess the ecological and human exposure to PCB 126 and 2,3,7,8-TCDD in the Venice lagoon (Italy). The 'Phytoplankton', 'Aquatic Invertebrate', 'Fish', 'Human intake' and PBPK models available in MERLIN-Expo library were integrated to create a specific food web to dynamically simulate bioaccumulation in various aquatic species and in the human body over individual lifetimes from 1932 until 1998. MERLIN-Expo is a high tier exposure modelling tool allowing propagation of uncertainty on the model predictions through Monte Carlo simulation. Uncertainty in model output can be further apportioned between parameters by applying built-in sensitivity analysis tools. In this study, uncertainty has been extensively addressed in the distribution functions to describe the data input and the effect on model results by applying sensitivity analysis techniques (screening Morris method, regression analysis, and variance-based method EFAST). In the exposure scenario developed for the Lagoon of Venice, the concentrations of 2,3,7,8-TCDD and PCB 126 in human blood turned out to be mainly influenced by a combination of parameters (half-lives of the chemicals, body weight variability, lipid fraction, food assimilation efficiency), physiological processes (uptake/elimination rates), environmental exposure concentrations (sediment, water, food) and eating behaviours (amount of food eaten). In conclusion, this case study demonstrated feasibility of MERLIN-Expo to be successfully employed in integrated, high tier exposure assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Radomyski
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venezia, Italy
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venezia, Italy
| | - Philippe Ciffroy
- Electricité de France (EDF) R&D, National Hydraulic and Environment Laboratory, 6 quai Watier, 78400 Chatou, France
| | - Andrea Critto
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venezia, Italy.
| | - Céline Brochot
- Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques (INERIS), Unité Modèles pour l'Ecotoxicologie et la Toxicologie (METO), Parc ALATA BP2, 60550 Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venezia, Italy
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Ciffroy P, Alfonso B, Altenpohl A, Banjac Z, Bierkens J, Brochot C, Critto A, De Wilde T, Fait G, Fierens T, Garratt J, Giubilato E, Grange E, Johansson E, Radomyski A, Reschwann K, Suciu N, Tanaka T, Tediosi A, Van Holderbeke M, Verdonck F. Modelling the exposure to chemicals for risk assessment: a comprehensive library of multimedia and PBPK models for integration, prediction, uncertainty and sensitivity analysis - the MERLIN-Expo tool. Sci Total Environ 2016; 568:770-784. [PMID: 27169730 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.03.191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Revised: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
MERLIN-Expo is a library of models that was developed in the frame of the FP7 EU project 4FUN in order to provide an integrated assessment tool for state-of-the-art exposure assessment for environment, biota and humans, allowing the detection of scientific uncertainties at each step of the exposure process. This paper describes the main features of the MERLIN-Expo tool. The main challenges in exposure modelling that MERLIN-Expo has tackled are: (i) the integration of multimedia (MM) models simulating the fate of chemicals in environmental media, and of physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models simulating the fate of chemicals in human body. MERLIN-Expo thus allows the determination of internal effective chemical concentrations; (ii) the incorporation of a set of functionalities for uncertainty/sensitivity analysis, from screening to variance-based approaches. The availability of such tools for uncertainty and sensitivity analysis aimed to facilitate the incorporation of such issues in future decision making; (iii) the integration of human and wildlife biota targets with common fate modelling in the environment. MERLIN-Expo is composed of a library of fate models dedicated to non biological receptor media (surface waters, soils, outdoor air), biological media of concern for humans (several cultivated crops, mammals, milk, fish), as well as wildlife biota (primary producers in rivers, invertebrates, fish) and humans. These models can be linked together to create flexible scenarios relevant for both human and wildlife biota exposure. Standardized documentation for each model and training material were prepared to support an accurate use of the tool by end-users. One of the objectives of the 4FUN project was also to increase the confidence in the applicability of the MERLIN-Expo tool through targeted realistic case studies. In particular, we aimed at demonstrating the feasibility of building complex realistic exposure scenarios and the accuracy of the modelling predictions through a comparison with actual measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ciffroy
- Electricité de France (EDF) R&D, National Hydraulic and Environment Laboratory, 6 quai Watier, 78400 Chatou, France
| | - B Alfonso
- Facilia AB, Gustavslundsvägen 151C, 167 51 Bromma, Sweden
| | - A Altenpohl
- Austrian Standards Institute, Heinestr. 38, 1060 Vienna, Austria
| | - Z Banjac
- Agencia Estatal Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Bierkens
- EUrelations AG, Technoparkstr. 1, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - C Brochot
- Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Human and Environmental Exposure and Risk Assessment, VITO - Health, Mol, Belgium
| | - A Critto
- Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques (INERIS), Unité Modèles pour l'Ecotoxicologie et la Toxicologie (METO), Parc ALATA BP2, 60550 Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | - T De Wilde
- University Ca' Foscari Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre-Venezia, Italy
| | - G Fait
- Arche cvba, Liefkensstraat 35d, 9032 Gent (Wondelgem), Belgium
| | - T Fierens
- EUrelations AG, Technoparkstr. 1, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - J Garratt
- AIEFORIA srl, via Gramsci 22, 43036 Fidenza (PR), Italy
| | - E Giubilato
- Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques (INERIS), Unité Modèles pour l'Ecotoxicologie et la Toxicologie (METO), Parc ALATA BP2, 60550 Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | - E Grange
- AIEFORIA srl, via Gramsci 22, 43036 Fidenza (PR), Italy
| | - E Johansson
- Facilia AB, Gustavslundsvägen 151C, 167 51 Bromma, Sweden
| | - A Radomyski
- Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques (INERIS), Unité Modèles pour l'Ecotoxicologie et la Toxicologie (METO), Parc ALATA BP2, 60550 Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | - K Reschwann
- Enviresearch Ltd., Herschel Building/Nanotechnology Centre, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
| | - N Suciu
- Istituto di Chimica Agraria ed Ambientale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, via Emilia Parmense 84, 29122, Piacenza, Italy
| | - T Tanaka
- Electricité de France (EDF) R&D, National Hydraulic and Environment Laboratory, 6 quai Watier, 78400 Chatou, France
| | - A Tediosi
- Arche cvba, Liefkensstraat 35d, 9032 Gent (Wondelgem), Belgium
| | | | - F Verdonck
- University Ca' Foscari Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre-Venezia, Italy
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27
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Giubilato E, Radomyski A, Critto A, Ciffroy P, Brochot C, Pizzol L, Marcomini A. Modelling ecological and human exposure to POPs in Venice lagoon. Part I - Application of MERLIN-Expo tool for integrated exposure assessment. Sci Total Environ 2016; 565:961-976. [PMID: 27178754 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.04.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Revised: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Giubilato
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venezia, Italy
| | - Artur Radomyski
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venezia, Italy
| | - Andrea Critto
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venezia, Italy
| | - Philippe Ciffroy
- Electricité de France (EDF) R&D, National Hydraulic and Environment Laboratory, 6 quai Watier, 78400 Chatou, France
| | - Céline Brochot
- Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques (INERIS), Unité Modèles pour l'Ecotoxicologie et la Toxicologie (METO), Parc ALATA BP2, 60550 Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | - Lisa Pizzol
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venezia, Italy
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- University Ca' Foscari of Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Via Torino 155, Mestre, 30172 Venezia, Italy.
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28
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Suciu N, Tediosi A, Ciffroy P, Altenpohl A, Brochot C, Verdonck F, Ferrari F, Giubilato E, Capri E, Fait G. Potential for MERLIN-Expo, an advanced tool for higher tier exposure assessment, within the EU chemical legislative frameworks. Sci Total Environ 2016; 562:474-479. [PMID: 27107646 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.04.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2016] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
MERLIN-Expo merges and integrates advanced exposure assessment methodologies, allowing the building of complex scenarios involving several pollution sources and targets. The assessment of exposure and risks to human health from chemicals is of major concern for policy and ultimately benefits all citizens. The development and operational fusion of the advanced exposure assessment methodologies envisaged in the MERLIN-Expo tool will have a significant impact in the long term on several policies dealing with chemical safety management. There are more than 30 agencies in Europe related to exposure and risk evaluation of chemicals, which have an important role in implementing EU policies, having especially tasks of technical, scientific, operational and/or regulatory nature. The main purpose of the present paper is to introduce MERLIN-Expo and to highlight its potential for being effectively integrated within the group of tools available to assess the risk and exposure of chemicals for EU policy. The main results show that the tool is highly suitable for use in site-specific or local impact assessment, with minor modifications it can also be used for Plant Protection Products (PPPs), biocides and REACH, while major additions would be required for a comprehensive application in the field of consumer and worker exposure assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoleta Suciu
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122 Piacenza, Italy.
| | | | - Philippe Ciffroy
- Electricité de France (EDF) R&D, National Hydraulic and Environment Laboratory, 6 quai Watier, 78400 Chatou, France
| | - Annette Altenpohl
- Österreichisches Normungsinstitut/Austrian Standards Institute, Heinestraße 38, 1020 Wien, Austria
| | - Céline Brochot
- INERIS, Parc ALATA, BP2, 60550 Verneuil en Halatte, France
| | | | | | - Elisa Giubilato
- University Ca Foscari Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, via Torino 155, 30172 Mestre-Venice, Italy
| | - Ettore Capri
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122 Piacenza, Italy
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Lei K, Giubilato E, Critto A, Pan H, Lin C. Contamination and human health risk of lead in soils around lead/zinc smelting areas in China. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2016; 23:13128-13136. [PMID: 27000119 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-6473-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Pb/Zn smelting, an important economic activity in China, has led to heavy environmental pollution. This research reviewed studies on soil Pb contamination at Pb/Zn smelting sites in China published during the period of 2000 to 2015 to clarify the total levels, spatial changes, and health risks for Pb contamination in soils at local and national scales. The results show that Pb contents in surface soils at 58 Pb/Zn smelting sites in China ranged from 7 to 312,452 mg kg(-1) with an arithmetic average, geometric average, and median of 1982, 404, and 428 mg kg(-1), respectively (n = 1011). Surface soil Pb content at these smelting sites decreased from an average of 2466 to 659 mg kg(-1), then to 463 mg kg(-1) as the distance from the smelters increased from <1000 to 1000∼2000 m, and then to >2000 m. With respect to variation with depth, the average soil Pb content at these sites gradually decreased from 986 mg kg(-1) at 0- to 20-cm depth to 144 mg kg(-1) at 80- to 100-cm depth. Approximately 78 % of the soil samples (n = 1011) at the 58 Pb/Zn smelting sites were classified as having high Pb pollution levels. Approximately 34.2 and 7.7 % of the soil samples (n = 1011) at the 58 Pb/Zn smelting sites might pose adverse health effects and high chronic risks to children, respectively. The Pb/Zn smelting sites in the southwest and southeast provinces of China, as well as Liaoning province, were most contaminated and thus should receive priority for remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Lei
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, People's Republic of China
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Calle Larga S. Marta 2137, Venice, 30123, Italy
| | - Andrea Critto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Calle Larga S. Marta 2137, Venice, 30123, Italy
| | - Huiyun Pan
- Institute of Resources and Environment, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, Henan, 454000, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunye Lin
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, People's Republic of China.
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Pizzol L, Zabeo A, Klusáček P, Giubilato E, Critto A, Frantál B, Martinát S, Kunc J, Osman R, Bartke S. Timbre Brownfield Prioritization Tool to support effective brownfield regeneration. J Environ Manage 2016; 166:178-192. [PMID: 26496848 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2015.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/20/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade, the regeneration of derelict or underused sites, fully or partly located in urban areas (or so called "brownfields"), has become more common, since free developable land (or so called "greenfields") has more and more become a scare and, hence, more expensive resource, especially in densely populated areas. Although the regeneration of brownfield sites can offer development potentials, the complexity of these sites requires considerable efforts to successfully complete their revitalization projects and the proper selection of promising sites is a pre-requisite to efficiently allocate the limited financial resources. The identification and analysis of success factors for brownfield sites regeneration can support investors and decision makers in selecting those sites which are the most advantageous for successful regeneration. The objective of this paper is to present the Timbre Brownfield Prioritization Tool (TBPT), developed as a web-based solution to assist stakeholders responsible for wider territories or clusters of brownfield sites (portfolios) to identify which brownfield sites should be preferably considered for redevelopment or further investigation. The prioritization approach is based on a set of success factors properly identified through a systematic stakeholder engagement procedure. Within the TBPT these success factors are integrated by means of a Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) methodology, which includes stakeholders' requalification objectives and perspectives related to the brownfield regeneration process and takes into account the three pillars of sustainability (economic, social and environmental dimensions). The tool has been applied to the South Moravia case study (Czech Republic), considering two different requalification objectives identified by local stakeholders, namely the selection of suitable locations for the development of a shopping centre and a solar power plant, respectively. The application of the TBPT to the case study showed that it is flexible and easy to adapt to different local contexts, allowing the assessors to introduce locally relevant parameters identified according to their expertise and considering the availability of local data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Pizzol
- University Ca' Foscari Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Venice, Italy
| | - Alex Zabeo
- University Ca' Foscari Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Venice, Italy
| | - Petr Klusáček
- Institute of Geonics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- University Ca' Foscari Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Critto
- University Ca' Foscari Venice, Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Venice, Italy.
| | - Bohumil Frantál
- Institute of Geonics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Standa Martinát
- Institute of Geonics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Josef Kunc
- Institute of Geonics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Robert Osman
- Institute of Geonics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Stephan Bartke
- UFZ - Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research, Department of Economics, Leipzig, Germany
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Semenzin E, Lanzellotto E, Hristozov D, Critto A, Zabeo A, Giubilato E, Marcomini A. Species sensitivity weighted distribution for ecological risk assessment of engineered nanomaterials: the n-TiO2 case study. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015; 34:2644-2659. [PMID: 26058704 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Revised: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2015] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Societal concerns about the environmental risks of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) have recently increased, but nano-ecological risk assessments are constrained by significant gaps in basic information on long-term effects and exposures, for example. An approach to the ecological risk assessment of ENMs is proposed that can operate in the context of high uncertainty. This approach further develops species sensitivity weighted distribution (SSWD) by including 3 weighting criteria (species relevance, trophic level abundance, and nanotoxicity data quality) to address nano-specific needs (n-SSWD). The application of n-SSWD is illustrated for nanoscale titanium dioxide (n-TiO2 ), which is available in different crystal forms; it was selected because of its widespread use in consumer products (e.g., cosmetics) and the ample availability of data from ecotoxicological studies in the literature (including endpoints for algae, invertebrates, bacteria, and vertebrates in freshwater, saltwater, and terrestrial compartments). The n-SSWD application resulted in estimation of environmental quality criteria (hazard concentration affecting 5% and 50% of the species) and ecological risk (potentially affected fraction of species), which were then compared with similar results obtained by applying the traditional species sensitivity distribution (SSD) approach to the same dataset. The n-SSWDs were also built for specific trophic levels (e.g., primary producers) and taxonomic groups (e.g., algae), which helped to identify the most sensitive organisms. These results showd that n-SSWD is a valuable risk tool, although further testing is suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - Elisa Lanzellotto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - Danail Hristozov
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Critto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - Alex Zabeo
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics, and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Venice, Italy
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32
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Fan J, Semenzin E, Meng W, Giubilato E, Zhang Y, Critto A, Zabeo A, Zhou Y, Ding S, Wan J, He M, Lin C. Ecological status classification of the Taizi River Basin, China: a comparison of integrated risk assessment approaches. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2015; 22:14738-14754. [PMID: 25989855 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4629-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Integrated risk assessment approaches allow to achieve a sound evaluation of ecological status of river basins and to gain knowledge about the likely causes of impairment, useful for informing and supporting the decision-making process. In this paper, the integrated risk assessment (IRA) methodology developed in the EU MODELKEY project (and implemented in the MODELKEY Decision Support System) is applied to the Taizi River (China), in order to assess its Ecological and Chemical Status according to EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) requirements. The available dataset is derived by an extensive survey carried out in 2009 and 2010 across the Taizi River catchment, including the monitoring of physico-chemical (i.e. DO, EC, NH3-_N, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand in 5 days (BOD5) and TP), chemical (i.e. polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and metals), biological (i.e. macroinvertebrates, fish, and algae), and hydromorphological parameters (i.e. water quantity, channel change and morphology diversity). The results show a negative trend in the ecological status from the highland to the lowland of the Taizi River Basin. Organic pollution from agriculture and domestic sources (i.e. COD and BOD5), unstable hydrological regime (i.e. water quantity shortage) and chemical pollutants from industry (i.e. PAHs and metals) are found to be the main stressors impacting the ecological status of the Taizi River Basin. The comparison between the results of the IRA methodology and those of a previous study (Leigh et al. 2012) indicates that the selection of indicators and integrating methodologies can have a relevant impact on the classification of the ecological status. The IRA methodology, which integrates information from five lines of evidence (i.e., biology, physico-chemistry, chemistry, ecotoxicology and hydromorphology) required by WFD, allows to better identify the biological communities that are potentially at risk and the stressors that are most likely responsible for the observed alterations. This knowledge can be beneficial for a more effective restoration and management of the river basin ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juntao Fan
- College of Water Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
- Laboratory of Riverine Ecological Conservation and Technology, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Elena Semenzin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - Wei Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
- Laboratory of Riverine Ecological Conservation and Technology, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - Yuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China.
- Laboratory of Riverine Ecological Conservation and Technology, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China.
| | - Andrea Critto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, Venice, Italy.
| | - Alex Zabeo
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University Venice, Venice, Italy
| | - Yun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
- Laboratory of Riverine Ecological Conservation and Technology, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Sen Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
- Laboratory of Riverine Ecological Conservation and Technology, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Jun Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
- Laboratory of Riverine Ecological Conservation and Technology, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Mengchang He
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Chunye Lin
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
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Pizzol L, Zabeo A, Critto A, Giubilato E, Marcomini A. Risk-based prioritization methodology for the classification of groundwater pollution sources. Sci Total Environ 2015; 506-507:505-517. [PMID: 25437767 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Water management is one of the EU environmental priorities and it is one of the most serious challenges that today's major cities are facing. The main European regulation for the protection of water resources is represented by the Water Framework Directive (WFD) and the Groundwater Directive (2006/118/EC) which require the identification, risk-based ranking and management of sources of pollution and the identification of those contamination sources that threaten the achievement of groundwater's good quality status. The aim of this paper is to present a new risk-based prioritization methodology to support the determination of a management strategy for the achievement of the good quality status of groundwater. The proposed methodology encompasses the following steps: 1) hazard analysis, 2) pathway analysis, 3) receptor vulnerability analysis and 4) relative risk estimation. Moreover, by integrating GIS functionalities and Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) techniques, it allows to: i) deal with several sources and multiple impacted receptors within the area of concern; ii) identify different receptors' vulnerability levels according to specific groundwater uses; iii) assess the risks posed by all contamination sources in the area; and iv) provide a risk-based ranking of the contamination sources that can threaten the achievement of the groundwater good quality status. The application of the proposed framework to a well-known industrialized area located in the surroundings of Milan (Italy) is illustrated in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework in supporting the identification of intervention priorities. Among the 32 sources analyzed in the case study, three sources received the highest relevance score, due to the medium-high relative risks estimated for Chromium (VI) and Perchloroethylene. The case study application showed that the developed methodology is flexible and easy to adapt to different contexts, thanks to the possibility to introduce specific relevant parameters identified according to expert judgment and data availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Pizzol
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Italy
| | - Alex Zabeo
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Critto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Italy
| | - Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Italy
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Italy.
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Giubilato E, Zabeo A, Critto A, Giove S, Bierkens J, Den Hond E, Marcomini A. A risk-based methodology for ranking environmental chemical stressors at the regional scale. Environ Int 2014; 65:41-53. [PMID: 24440801 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2013.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Revised: 12/04/2013] [Accepted: 12/11/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
A "Risk-based Tool for the Regional Ranking of Environmental Chemical Stressors" has been developed, aimed at supporting decision-makers in the identification of priority environmental contaminants, as well as priority areas, to be further assessed. The tool implements a methodology based on a quantitative Weight-of-Evidence approach, integrating three types of information, identified as "Lines-of-Evidence" (LoE), namely: LoE "Environmental Contamination" (including data on chemical contamination in environmental matrices in the region, thus providing information on potential population exposure), LoE "Intake" (including results from human biomonitoring studies, i.e. concentration of chemicals in human biological matrices, thus providing an integrated estimation of exposure) and LoE "Observed Effects" (including information on the incidence of adverse health outcomes associated with environmental exposure to chemicals). A Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) methodology based on fuzzy logic has been developed to support the integration of information related to these three LoEs for each chemical stressor. The tool allows one to rank chemical stressors at different spatial scales, such as at the regional level as well as within each sub-area (e.g., counties). Moreover, it supports the identification of priority sub-areas within the region, where environmental and health data suggest possible adverse health effects and thus more investigation efforts are needed. To evaluate the performance of this newly developed tool, a case-study in the Flemish region (north of Belgium) has been selected. In the case-study, data on soil contamination by metals and organic contaminants were integrated with data on exposure and effect biomarkers measured in adolescents within the framework of the human biomonitoring study performed by the Flemish Centre of Expertise on Environment and Health in the period 2002-2006. The case-study demonstrated the performance of the tool in integrating qualitative and quantitative data with expert judgement for the identification of priority contaminants and areas. The proposed approach proved to be flexible, allowing for the incorporation of individual decision-maker's preferences, and, at the same time, to be transparent since all assumptions and value attributions are traceable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Giubilato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Calle Larga S. Marta 2137, I-30123 Venice, Italy
| | - Alex Zabeo
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Calle Larga S. Marta 2137, I-30123 Venice, Italy
| | - Andrea Critto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Calle Larga S. Marta 2137, I-30123 Venice, Italy
| | - Silvio Giove
- Department of Economics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Cannaregio 873, I-30121 Venice, Italy
| | - Johan Bierkens
- Environmental Risk and Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, B-2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Elly Den Hond
- Environmental Risk and Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, B-2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, University Ca' Foscari Venice, Calle Larga S. Marta 2137, I-30123 Venice, Italy.
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