Introduction of Innovative Sampling Media for Biomonitoring of Environmental Loads of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
DOI: 10.62178/sst.003.002
Abstract
Combustion-related industry activity inevitably results in emissions of toxic substances, such as dioxins, PFAS, PAH, also called persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals, with a key focus on to what degree this is accompanied by unacceptable pollution in the surrounding environments. Measurements of the environmental load of these and other industrial emissions are today limited in terms of relevant time frame, frequency and target POPs. A comprehensive systematic monitoring is critically needed to support endangered surrounding environments and the health of local populations. Here we present selected studies from the last decade developing a science-backed basis for improving monitoring of industrial emission deposition loads of hazardous POP substances with a special focus on the use of both conventional as well as innovative sampling media: soil, water, sediments, sheep’s wool, eggshells of wildlife birds, mosses (Bryophytes), pine needles (Picea abies; Pinus sylvestris), evergreen tree leaves (Olea europaea; Quercus ilex), liver (from dead wildlife animals), even mother’s milk. In this article we highlight some of the challenges involved in using this wide array of sampling media for biomonitoring with respect to representativity, reproducibility (practical monitoring), and relationship to the often highly advanced analytical methods employed. An important result of the work carried out by ToxicoWatch (TW) is that local communities become involved and are actively participating in the practical realisation of relevant research and monitoring projects. With this approach, local communities feel listened to and experience in practice that action is taken to focus their serious concerns through citizen-participation in scientific research and communication between polluting agents, governments, and other relevant organisations. In this way ToxicoWatch acts as a bridge between local communities, industry, and government.
Published in Issue 3 · April 2025
Citing this article
Arkenbout, A., Bouman, K. J. & Esbensen, K. H. (2025). Introduction of Innovative Sampling Media for Biomonitoring of Environmental Loads of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). Sampling Science & Technology, April 2025(3), 2-25. https://doi.org/10.62178/sst.003.002
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