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CECs and You: What Is There To Do?

As a conclusion to this blog series on contaminants of emerging concern, I want to apply everything I’ve discussed so far and apply its relevancy to you who’s been following this thread. This world is yours too and you can help make it better for us now and those who come after. 

Be More Environmentally Aware

Almost all of the products we use on a daily basis contain a multitude of chemicals, some of which have been recognized as CECs. A lot of these chemicals and their residuals/degradations are also washed away into wastewater plants and sewers after use. By recognizing which products being utilized contain CECs, you as a consumer can do your part to reduce anthropogenic and facilitated pollution in the shared waterways. A list of recognized emerging contaminants to aid in your research can be found on websites from sources such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency. (1)

Join the Conversation

Now that you’re more informed about the issue of emerging contaminants in waters and the environment, join the ongoing conversation about it. Grassroots movements and local groups are scattered across the globe to raise awareness, research, and gradual solutions to such problems. Another way to share your perspective is to follow along with publications and news releases relating to this subject and supporting it through various ways such as attending rallies and discussions, contacting political representatives, and finding like-minded individuals to collaborate with. Using various resources and opportunities is a great way to get your foot in the door with such a broad issue. 

The last but not the least detail to add to this blog post is...

Help be the Solution to Water Pollution!

 References 

1.  Emerging Contaminants and Federal Facility Contaminants of Concern. https://www.epa.gov/fedfac/emerging-contaminants-and-federal-facility-contaminants-concern (accessed Oct 21, 2019).

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Rules and Regulations of CECs

So far you know more about CECs, some specific testing strategies, and some agencies that are involved with these chemicals. Now equipped with this newly acquired knowledge, I’m going to dive into specific regulations and laws involving emerging contaminants.

Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR)

Under the authority of the U.S. EPA, this rule is used to test for contaminants that may be in drinking water but aren’t specified under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). (1) The SDWA, amended in 1996, makes guidelines such as “monitoring no more than 30 contaminants every five years, monitoring large systems and a representative sample of small public water systems serving less than or equal to 10,000 people, and storing analytical results in a National Contaminant Occurrence Database (NCOD)”, (1) By following this, a list called the Contaminant Contaminant List is compiled of all recognized CECs that are not regulated under SDWA but are known in public water plants and may require further study. (1)

Section 1112: Emerging contaminant monitoring

The New York State Senate contains a section in Article 11, Title 1 about Emerging Contaminant Monitoring. (2) In this, guidelines discussing topics such as what is an emerging contaminant, regulations regarding which contaminants must be disclosed and why, and strict public water testing regulations are set in the state’s laws. (2) While there are some laws discussing specific regulations regarding certain CECs, there is still room for amendments and justifications in New York’s legislation as further research is conducted with continuing results. 

Drinking Water Contaminants of Emerging Concern Program - Minnesota

As a response to the ongoing conversation about CECs and public health, Minnesota legislation requires the Minnesota Department of Health to assess state drinking water qualities for contaminants not already tested for. (3) The University of Minnesota was selected by MN Legislation to review the adequacy of MDH’s response to these laws. Although they were found to be adequate, more clarification and improvisations were recommended to completely meet these specifications. (3) For the 2019 research and conduction of this review, $1,100,000 were appropriated to screen, rank, and assess risk for various contaminants in the state. (4)

Continuing Legislation and Regulation

As I have mentioned before, it is difficult and complex to establish laws and regulations regarding CECs because of their intense dispersion through waterways, micro size, and steadily insufficient research. Studying such a topic is expensive: time-wise, cost-wise, technology-wise, etc. As modernization develops to reflect these needs and further research is conducted on the vast range on increasing CECs, more adequate regulations will be put in place through local, state, and federal levels. 

Solutions for Water Pollution

Do a quick search through your state’s CEC regulation. Is there sufficient background and rules regarding this topic? Are there things that could be added or further researched to substantiate this section more?

References

1.  Learn About the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule. https://www.epa.gov/dwucmr/learn-about-unregulated-contaminant-monitoring-rule (accessed Oct 21, 2019).

2.  Emerging contaminant monitoring. https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/PBH/1112 (accessed Oct 21, 2019).

3.  Review of the Minnesota Department of Health Contaminants of Emerging Concern Program Process for Selecting Chemicals. https://www.wrc.umn.edu/review-minnesota-department-health-contaminants-emerging-concern-program-process-selecting-chemicals (accessed Oct 21, 2019).

4.  Nyquist, K. Drinking Water Contaminants of Emerging Concern Program. https://www.legacy.mn.gov/projects/drinking-water-contaminants-emerging-concern-program (accessed Oct 21, 2019).

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CECs/Water Pollution Agencies

In the topic of contaminants and water pollution, meticulous testing, regulating, and law articulating has occurred to get to where we are today. This post is dedicated to listing important agencies working in this topic of science and policy. 

United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA, EPA)

Possibly the most recognized in this field of work, the EPA is the federal organization responsible for environmental regulation and protection. (1) The EPA’s mission includes objectives such as: “Americans have clean air, land and water”; “All parts of society--communities, individuals, businesses, and state, local and tribal governments--have access to accurate information sufficient to effectively participate in managing human health and environmental risks”; and “Contaminated lands and toxic sites are cleaned up by potentially responsible parties and revitalized”. (1) To keep up with objectives such as these, efforts like dispersing grants, conducting relevant studies, and establishing adequate regulations on lands, pertaining practices, and relating people to the specific matter. (1)

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)

On the more local level is the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. MPCA “monitors environmental quality, offers technical and financial assistance, and enforces environmental regulations” by meeting federal standards while organizing for what’s best for the state. (2) Community coordination, learning from mistakes/past historical practices, and collaborating ideas while using applicable data are some of the values and techniques that MPCA derives from. (2) By not only working with the EPA but also state legislature, local governments, and other local environmental groups, MPCA is better able to suit the specific environmental needs of the state of Minnesota. 

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

To bring CEC awareness and prevention to the global scale, the UN Environment Programme tackles bigger pictures issues like emerging contaminants. According to the mission statement on the respective website, this organization aims to “provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.”. (3) This is achieved through structured governance in specific sectors, research conducted across the world, different specifications and disciplines divided up among distinguished researchers and institutes globally, and using innumerable perspectives to see through big picture environmental issues. As a branch of the United Nations, UNEP has distinguished authority and rulings in cases of environmental issues and policies such as CECs and their respective deliberations. 

Environmental Initiatives

One last group to identify in this blog post is an environmental group native to the Twin Cities area: Environmental Initiatives. As listed on their website, Environmental Initiatives “is a nonprofit organization that works with business, nonprofit and government leaders to develop collaborative solutions to Minnesota’s environmental problems.”. (4) To do this, techniques such as founding meeting grounds for influential leaders in the area to discuss environmental issues, following grassroots movements to begin needed research on specific areas, and taking action on necessary projects facilitate their establishment in the Twin Cities area and beyond in the environmental science and policy field of work. (4)

Solutions for Water Pollution

After reading this post, research environmental agencies and groups in your area. Find what kind of projects and roles they have been involve in. If possible, attend a meeting or community event to find out how to be involved with their agency. 

References 

1.  Our Mission and What We Do. https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/our-mission-and-what-we-do (accessed Oct 21, 2019).

2.  About the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. https://www.pca.state.mn.us/about (accessed Oct 21, 2019).

3. About UN Environment. https://www.unenvironment.org/about-un-environment (accessed Oct 21, 2019).

4.  Who We Are. https://environmental-initiative.org/who-we-are/ (accessed Oct 21, 2019).

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Testing for Emerging Contaminants

To learn more about contaminants of emerging concern, testing is required. In this post, I will divulge more about some of the testing methods and how more has been found about CECs.

Initial Water Sample Collections

At predetermined sites (in this specific study, wastewater treatment plants were being studied), water was collected in clean bottles for a one-time sample. (1) Bottles contained dechlorination chemicals and preservatives to analyze the emerging contaminant concentration against regulated levels. (1)

Method 1: USGS Direct Injection

In this method, the term “direct injection” is used because the water sample is directly injected into a chromatograph then a spectrometer. (2) A chromatograph is an instrument that is used to separate mixtures, like contaminants from a water sample. (3) Once the mixture is separated a spectrometer, an instrument used to measure spectra or light properties of different physical objects. (4) By using this technique, the atomic properties of various pharmaceuticals were found and differentiated, therefore identifying them in the water samples. (2) This method of sampling was used to test for 110 of the 174 contaminants; the contaminants specifically tested for were pharmaceuticals and personal care products. (1)

Method 2:  Purge-and-Trap for Aqueous Samples

The Purge-and-Trap methodology includes either keeping a certain temperature heating an aqueous solution then putting an inert gas through it to release the contaminants into a separate chamber where they are next transferred to a chromatographic chamber. (5) This method is used for aqueous solutions. This method is also validated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), meaning the method has been peer reviewed and deemed sufficient to be published for general use. (6)

Method 3: Test Strips

A testing method available for more of the average consumer for use in field testing, test strips involve using a signified test strip then dipping it into a water sample container or directly into the source then measuring a specific contaminant’s concentration by comparing the strip’s new color to a chart of specified concentrations correlated to its respective color. (7) This test very much resembles a pH test, just with a variable. A downside to this method is it isn’t as accurate as a lab method would be, but it gives a general idea about a specific water’s quality. 

Method 4: Color Disk Kits

Another field test kit that isn’t as accurate but is still reputable is the color disk kit test. To conduct this, the user puts some of a water sample in a tube then adds either a powder or liquid reagent to the sample. After this, the tube is placed in a box that lists specific concentrations and their respective color. These values are used to match the sample’s concentration. (7) This test requires some wait time but still gives a good idea about water quality in a given area. 

Method 5: Handheld Field Instruments

One more test method that can be conducted with little experience in water testing is by using specific handheld instruments. Although these tools are more intricate, delicate, and less user friendly, it is still a viable method that yields more accurate results than a test strip or color disk kit. To complete this test, a handheld device such as digital meters, colorimeters, and photometers are utilized with a given water sample. (7) These devices also require batteries and calibration along with being more costly, all of which make them less accessible.

Testing... 1,2,3,... Testing

Although I listed only 5 methods for testing water contamination, there are many more for different kinds of water testing and testing other substances. The U.S. EPA has a page dedicated to sharing their validated testing methods and studied conducted using such methods. (6) As more work is done in fields such as toxicology and environmental analysis, new methods are being constructed and tested. The field continues to grow as new questions arise. 

Solutions for Water Pollution

Home testing kits are available online and in stores to see what your local water quality is. Sometimes free water quality tests are offered through local, state, and federal operations. If possible, test your water quality. If it meets water standards, how was this possible. If it is below expectations, how can you improve the quality? 

References

1.  Batt, A. L.; Furlong, E. T.; Mash, H. E.; Glassmeyer, S. T.; Kolpin, D. W. The Importance of Quality Control in Validating Concentrations of Contaminants of Emerging Concern in Source and Treated Drinking Water Samples. Science of The Total Environment 2017, 579, 1618–1628.

2.  Furlong, E. T.; Noriega, M. C.; Kanagy, C. J.; Kanagy, L. K.; Coffey, L. J.; Burkhardt, M. R. Determination of Human-Use Pharmaceuticals in Filtered Water by Direct Aqueous Injection: High-Performance Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Techniques and Methods 2014.

3.  Chromatograph. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chromatograph (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

4.  Spectrometer. https://chem.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Analytical_Chemistry/Supplemental_Modules_(Analytical_Chemistry)/Instrumental_Analysis/Spectrometer (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

5. Purge-and-Trap Method for Aqueous Solutions.  A methodology of the purge-and-trap technique for examining contaminants in aqueous solutions. USEPA

6.  Validated Test Methods Recommended for Waste Testing. https://www.epa.gov/hw-sw846/validated-test-methods-recommended-waste-testing (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

7.  How to test water quality? Chemical tests for limited budgets. https://blogs.worldbank.org/water/how-test-water-quality-chemical-tests-limited-budgets (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

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CECs in the Worldview

In the posts leading up to this one, I’ve been discussing what are contaminants of emerging concern, what they are, specific examples, and important aspects of these chemicals. Today, I’ll be explaining some specific examples that have been studied so far. 

Emerging Contaminants in Minnesota Waters

Starting at my local perspective, Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, is not excluded from contamination. To be more specific, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), conducted a study in 2013 to reinforce 2008 results of chemical monitoring in the lakes and rivers. (1) This study was a follow-up to the same study conducted in 2008 that found the presence of unregulated contaminants by using plastic water bottles rinsed in the sampling surface water then filled and shipped in ice to analyze the water for contamination. (1) In both studies, the same 11 lakes with residential and sewered, unsewered, and non-residential environments were tested and four wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) up and down streams were added in the 2013 study. 

The results concluded that in the lakes, “A total of 27 pharmaceuticals, disinfectants, or other contaminants were found. As in other studies, DEET was the most frequently detected chemical, appearing in 91% of the water samples at a maximum concentration of 103 parts per trillion (ppt). Cotinine (a metabolite of nicotine) and iopamidol (an x-ray contrasting agent) were both detected in 73% of the lakes at maximum concentrations of 42 and 510 ppt, respectively.” (1) In the streams, “A total of 56 PPCPs and other chemicals were detected in water samples collected downstream of the four WWTPs included in this study. Sixteen of these chemicals were found in every surface water sample that was collected downstream of the facilities, including antidepressants, antibiotics, and several pharmaceuticals used to treat hypertension. In upstream water, 33 were detected, with metformin, BPA, and cotinine found at all four upstream locations.” (1)

From these results, it is shown how much more is in our waters than we think. For example, the waters up and down stream from the researched WWTPs all were found to be microbially contaminated from plastics and pharmaceuticals. These conclusions lead to further studies on the effects of this level of contamination and how to deliberate on establishing more effective decontamination methods. 

https://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/threats-facing-minnesota-lakes

Studying the Correlation Between CECs and New Zealand’s Waters

The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) in New Zealand along with native Maori people from the region conducted a study on concentrations of emerging contaminants in the kai (food) of the region gathered from coastal areas and local waters. (2) By interviewing and noting behaviors on native peoples in the area and utilizing methyl mercury to track contaminant bioaccumulation in the food web over the period of three years, scientists were able to make reasonable conclusions. (2) The results were that the native people surveyed ate more purchased fish than locally harvested but still had higher concentrations of mercury and selenium (naturally-occurring contaminants) than those of non-native New Zealanders. It was also found that contaminants tend to accumulate in fatty fish with more lipids such as eels. Eels are a part of the diet of the native people studied so concerns of bioaccumulation were amplified. (2)

Before this study, the tribes in the area were unaware of contaminants existing in the waters and that the food sources are susceptible to this sort of contamination through the water. As a result, a new emphasis was established about informing tribes about contaminants of emerging concern and how to deal with such issues. (2)

https://media.newzealand.com/en/story-ideas/kai-indigenous-maori-food-ingredients/

Millions of Americans Facing Drinking Water Contamination

In a recent study, drinking water for more than six million Americans is contaminated with fluorinated chemical levels higher than the rated EPA regulations. (3) By using EPA data from required water monitoring of public water works, about six million out of the 52 something million Americans that get their water from small public water supplies. These recognized contaminants, PFOA and PFOS, more broadly known as PFASs, have been studied to cause obesity, specific cancers, immune issues, and thyroid issues. (3) An interesting point to this aspect of the study was how firefighting chemicals wash away in mass quantities after exercises at fields such as airports. These runoffs may end up in the water and contaminate water supplies. As more is researched about the effects of such chemicals, more practices such as firefighting drills will need to be evaluated to reduce water pollution in more urban areas. (3)

http://www.arffresource.com/2018/05/25/the-risk-assessment-for-arff-personal-protection-ensemblesthe-risk-assessment-for-arff-personal-protection-ensembles/#gref

Solutions for Water Pollution

Wastewater treatment plants have been more closely studied as being holding pools for CECs. Using this as an example, can you think of anything else that is unintentionally a pool for CECs? 

References

1.  Ferrey, M. Chemistry of modern life ends up in our waters. https://www.pca.state.mn.us/featured/chemistry-modern-life-ends-our-waters (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

2.  Risk assessment of contaminants in traditional food sources. https://niwa.co.nz/freshwater-and-estuaries/research-projects/risk-assessment-of-contaminants-in-traditional-food-sources (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

3.  Study identifies sources of drinking water contamination for millions of Americans. https://silentspring.org/news/study-identifies-sources-drinking-water-contamination-millions-americans (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

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Endocrine Disrupting Compounds and You

In previous posts I’ve briefly explained or given specific examples of endocrine disruptors/endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDC). This post is dedicated to further explaining these chemicals and their impact as contaminants of emerging concern.  

So What Are EDCs?

According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), endocrine disruptors are defined as “naturally occurring compounds or man-made substances that may mimic or interfere with the function of hormones in the body”. (1) These chemicals can alter chemical pathways, hormone signaling, organ functions and other functions by affecting the endocrine system. (1) The endocrine system is responsible for hormone control, physiological balance, and homeostasis.  

What Does This Mean For Environmental Health?

Studies have proven that the presence of EDCs can and have alter the reproductive systems of various organisms and therefore can change a population. (2) This effect can translate to the environment by changing behaviors in organisms which can change the health of the environment overall. This imbalance can negatively the overall homeostasis of the area and throw many things off-balance. 

Another hypothesis that derives from endocrine disruptors is carcinogenicity. (3) According to AltTox.org, UNECE states “The term carcinogen denotes a chemical substance or a mixture of chemical substances which induce cancer or increase its incidence” (3). With this definition, carcinogenicity is when the possibility of cancer and tumors increases when these specific chemicals are present. Having carcinogens present in the environment that are not naturally occurring and/or are in higher concentrations that acceptable can cause drastic alterations to living organisms, such as changing DNA formations, and the environment around them. For example, a work called the Report on Carcinogens released by the National Toxicology program every few years denotes known substances in the environment that are then recognized as carcinogens. (5) 62 carcinogens were listed in the most recent report with over 500 substances total having been noted as carcinogenic since the report’s first publication in 1980. (5,6) As more compounds and contaminants of emerging concern are being released into the environment, endocrine disruptors such as carcinogens are also being put into these areas. 

What’s Next with EDCs?

We’re learning more about the detrimental effects of these inputs of various chemicals as time continues and more research is being conducted. The important thing to note is that the study of EDCs as a whole is a relatively new topic in the field of science. In fact, the term ‘Endocrine Disruptor’ wasn’t used until the 1990s while the idea of EDCs was first introduced about 50-60 years before that. (7). The main focus as of now is to identify EDCs in the environment, find how they’re enveloping in specific areas, the effects they cause to the environment and humans, and how to get rid of them properly and safely. 

Solutions for Water Pollution

In the next post, I will discuss example cases and studies of CECs in the environment and their impacts. Can you think of any examples where contamination has occurred and how the issue was resolved?

References

1.  Endocrine Disruptors. Endocrine Disruptors, 2010.

2.  Patisaul, H. Long-Term Effects of Environmental Endocrine Disruptors on Reproductive Physiology and Behavior. Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience 2009, 3.

3.  Kavlock, R. J.; Daston, G. P.; Derosa, C.; Fenner-Crisp, P.; Gray, L. E.; Kaattari, S.; Lucier, G.; Luster, M.; Mac, M. J.; Maczka, C.; Miller, R.; Moore, J.; Rolland, R.; Scott, G.; Sheehan, D. M.; Sinks, T.; Tilson, H. A. Research Needs for the Risk Assessment of Health and Environmental Effects of Endocrine Disruptors: A Report of the U.S. EPA-Sponsored Workshop. Environmental Health Perspectives 1996, 104, 715.

4.  Carcinogenicity. http://alttox.org/mapp/toxicity-endpoints-tests/carcinogenicity/ (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

5.  Environmental Carcinogens and Cancer Risk. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/carcinogens (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

6.  History of the Report on Carcinogens. https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/whatwestudy/assessments/cancer/history/index.html (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

7.  The History of EDCs. https://www.endocrine.org/topics/edc/what-edcs-are/history-of-edcs/edc-timeline (accessed Oct 20, 2019).

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Cosmetics and the Big Cover-Up

When you think of makeup, you think of innumerable color palettes, beautiful artistry, and materials galore. One thing that isn’t brought up or thought about is what is in makeup. Within this infinite supply of cosmetics is an increasingly dangerous detail: the ingredients in many of these materials containing contaminants of emerging concern.

What Is a Cosmetic?

According to the FDA website, “ The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) defines cosmetics by their intended use, as "articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed on, introduced into, or otherwise applied to the human body...for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance" [FD&C Act, sec. 201(i)]. “. (1) With this definition, the range of what a cosmetic is ranges from perfume to skin care to hair products to makeup. This broad variety spans a lot of different functions and different chemical formulations with some materials not well understood about their impacts on health. (2)

What Has Been Studied So Far?

In a study conducted in the United Kingdom of over 120 potential CECs that are found in cosmetics, ten were found to be potential sources based on criteria such as how often they are found in the market and the concentration they can be found in products.(3) Further research is being conducted to see the effects of the larger concentrations of these chemicals in the environment. 

Another example is the effects of surfactants in terrestrial and aquatic environments. A surfactant (surface-active agent) is a chemical that increases a substance’s liquid properties by decreasing its surface tensions. (4) They are often found in cosmetics, cleaning products, pharmaceuticals, food, and more. (5) As the most common and more unwanted pollutant, surfactants are becoming increasingly studied and researched. (5) These products are often used on external surfaces then the residual surfactant and its degradations end up in wastewater treatments through draining or disposing. Once in wastewater, surfactants accumulate in larger concentrations and wash away into soil, sludge, groundwater, surface water, and many other aspects of the natural environment. (5,6) When added to aquatic environments, surfactants remnants have been found to increase local toxicity, reduce oxygen quantity and its regeneration rate, increase the amount of foam in waterways, and input endocrine disrupting compounds that may be detrimental to human health to the water supply. (5) Although the effects of these chemicals are becoming more heavily researched as their consumption increases, the results studied so far are already alarming and sparking interest in new material research while considering more cost-effective treatment plant modernization. (5,6).

The effects of parabens to environmental and human health is yet another growing concern as cosmetic use increases daily. Parabens are used in cosmetics and other products as artificial preservatives that also aid in keeping off harmful bacteria and mold growth to lengthen shelf life. (7) Parabens have been noted as existing for decades now and around 90% are removed in water treatment. The parabens that end up in water supplies have also been found in fish tissue, aquatic mammals, birds, and even polar bears but no specific detrimental effects have been found as of yet. Along with marine wildlife, paraben occurrences have been found in humans as well and recently was researched as having a role in breast cancer causation but this idea is being disputed. Parabens have been studied as endocrine disruptors in experimented fish and caused abnormalities such as altered reproductive systems (8). The two theses between human endocrine disruption and the fish reproductive disruptions is still experimented but the idea of parabens’ negative externalities on human health is becoming more accepted. 

http://doctoreport.com/beauty-cosmetics/cosmetic-products-may-ruining-environment

What’s the Solution?

So far, new innovations in wastewater treatment plants are being explored to expand on how much contaminants are removed before being released from a plant. The problem with this is the current solutions are not very efficient while being very costly. (5) The aspect of cosmetic ingredients increasingly contaminating our waters is a recent area of study that isn’t well understood yet. Until more is understood and founded to produce solutions from, the main point is to be aware of what you’re consuming and how you’re disposing of it. 

Solutions For Water Pollution

Chemicals such as methylparaben and sodium butylparaben are examples of parabens like previously discussed that may have negative affects on human health. Using the information given, can you think of anything that could prevent parabens from entering our waters or how to reduce their input in your life? 

References

1.  Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?). https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap#Definecosmetic (accessed Oct 19, 2019).

2. Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Parabens in Cosmetics. https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/parabens-cosmetics (accessed Oct 19, 2019).

3. Dhanirama, D.; Gronow, J.; Voulvoulis, N. Cosmetics as a Potential Source of Environmental Contamination in the UK. Environmental Technology 2012, 33 (14), 1597–1608.

4.  The Editors of Encyclopedia Britannica. Surfactant. https://www.britannica.com/science/surfactant (accessed Oct 19, 2019).

5.  Jardak, K.; Drogui, P.; Daghrir, R. Surfactants in Aquatic and Terrestrial Environment: Occurrence, Behavior, and Treatment Processes. Environmental Science and Pollution Research 2015, 23 (4), 3195–3216.

6.  Arslan-Alaton, I.; Erdinc, E. Effect of Photochemical Treatment on the Biocompatibility of a Commercial Nonionic Surfactant Used in the Textile Industry. Water Research 2006, 40 (18), 3409–3418.

7.  Stoiber, T. What Are Parabens, and Why Don't They Belong in Cosmetics? https://www.ewg.org/californiacosmetics/parabens (accessed Oct 19, 2019).

8.  Juliano, C.; Magrini, G. Cosmetic Ingredients as Emerging Pollutants of Environmental and Health Concern. A Mini-Review. Cosmetics 2017, 4 (2), 11.

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P(harm)aceuticals

As previously stated, pharmaceuticals are known to be CECs. In this blog post, I’ll break down more about what pharmaceuticals are, how they have been recognized as CECs, and solutions being found to prevent further damage. 

What are Pharmaceuticals?

According to Merriam-Webster, a pharmaceutical is “a medicinal drug” (1). Pharmaceuticals can be made from natural or human-produced materials and chemicals. Within each pharmaceutical, there is over 3,000 registered ingredients it can be comprised of and they’re still being developed (2). Pharmaceuticals don’t only include prescription drugs. Some personal care products, cosmetics, therapeutic medicines, pharmaceutical waste, etc. are also included in this definition along with prescription drugs (3). 

How Have Pharmaceuticals Become CECs?

In a study published by the American Chemical Society, there are water analysis tests available for only 150 of the >3,000 pharmaceuticals registered (2). With this information it is hard to make clear decisions and rulings on the environmental impacts of these chemicals. What we do know is that these chemicals are constantly being added to our water systems through flushing, runoff, improper disposal, and other practices initiated by nescience of CECs. Along with improper disposal of CECs, there is also little to no legal regulation of these chemicals which means there’s no legitimate prevention to this kind of water contamination. The only real measures taken are using modern technologies for this kind of water quality analysis and documenting changes while doing research for pollution prevention and new CECs (3). 

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjHwYD4zfzkAhXVFzQIHaQoDloQjB16BAgBEAM&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.watertechonline.com%2Fpharmaceuticals-and-personal-care-products-in-drinking-water-part-two%2F&psig=AOvVaw0BGL0UpQDx5ghTqnwfKeC6&ust=1570072466267576

Is There Prevention/Solutions on the Horizon for Pharmaceuticals?

The major problem with pharmaceuticals isn’t that there is dangerously high concentrations (mainly because of dilution), but what are the effects from prolonged exposure to chemically tainted water? Currently, there are smaller scale studies being done to see what current contamination levels are in waters across the U.S. but there is not much for federal regulations. Municipal plants aren’t required to test or filter for pharmaceutical contaminants, but as concerns and knowledge grows, upgrades may be required to fix these sorts of issues at a city level (4). Moving forwards with research on issues such as source control can also aid in reducing future contaminants along with proper disposal, purchasing home filters, and supporting research and legislation regarding these issues. 

Solutions for Water Pollution 

Go through your medicine cabinets and bathroom closets and look through the ingredients list. How many of the ingredients in your pharmaceuticals that you ingest or wash down the drain do you know? Do they contain any microplastics that you know of?

References

1.  Pharmaceutical. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pharmaceutical (accessed Oct 1, 2019).

2.  Richardson, S. D.; Ternes, T. A. Water Analysis:  Emerging Contaminants and Current Issues. Analytical Chemistry 2005, 77 (12), 3807–3838.

3.  Rivera-Utrilla, J.; Sánchez-Poloa, M.; Ángeles Ferro-García, M.; Prados-Joya, G.; Ocampo-Pérezab, R. Pharmaceuticals as emerging contaminants and their removal from water. A review. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0045653513010436 (accessed Oct 1, 2019).

4.  Pharmaceuticals in the Water Supply. https://www.americanrivers.org/threats-solutions/clean-water/pharmaceuticals-personal-care/ (accessed Oct 1, 2019).

[enviroelissa-blog]

What’s Wrong With CECs?

In my last post, I briefly described emerging contaminants and some general information you need to know about them. Now that you know what they are, you should also know why these micro-chemicals need more awareness and action.  

So... Where Did They Come From?

Because of studies originating in the late 1900′s, the topic of water pollution from CECs is relatively new. Results from research has shown that many contaminants such as prescription drugs, cleaning chemicals and pesticides are being found in low concentrations but in increasing areas of water resources like lakes and groundwater. This is because of human activities such as flushing pharmaceuticals down drains into water systems, insufficient measures to control runoff, increased use of microplastics, etc. (1). It’s important to know that emerging contaminants are not just now emerging. They have been known and/or produced in a region but are now occurring in more quantities but in low concentrations (2).

What’s Wrong With CECs?

A big issue surrounding contaminants of emerging concern is endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs). EDCs are compounds that have been known to affect organisms by changing how their hormones are received internally, therefore affecting aspects like reproduction (3). For example, fish have been examined and found to have decreased fertility and DNA mutations (4). Although some effects of EDCs have been analyzed in fish, not much research has been done on EDCs and their affect in humans. This is alarming not only because of how chemical dissonances could alter our physiology, but also because of not knowing how drastically CECs could affect entire aspects of our health due to being in waters globally. Water is a keystone facet in practically every environment.

Solution for Water Pollution

A good thing to think about is how much plastic you use in your daily life. Plastic production and consumption releases lots of toxins and microscopic chemicals into our environment. By rethinking the materials you utilize, you can change how many CECs are going into our water sources. 

References

1.  Contaminants of emerging concern. https://www.pca.state.mn.us/water/contaminants-emerging-concern (accessed Oct 1, 2019).

2.  Dealing with Emerging Contaminants: Types and Specific. https://cascade-env.com/resources/blogs/archive/dealing-with-emerging-contaminants/ (accessed Oct 1, 2019).

3.  Contaminants of Emerging Concern including Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products. https://www.epa.gov/wqc/contaminants-emerging-concern-including-pharmaceuticals-and-personal-care-products (accessed Oct 1, 2019).

4.  Carnevali, O.; Santangeli, S.; Forner-Piquer, I.; Basili, D.; Maradonna, F. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals in aquatic environment: what are the risks for fish gametes? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29948447 (accessed Oct 1, 2019).

[enviroelissa-blog]

What Are CECs and Why Should You Care?

Everyday, it seems like the headlines and trending topics on our news feeds and social medias are filled with climate change and human effects. In my ten post blog series, I’m going to describe a negative externality cause by humans we all should be more aware of: Contaminants of Emerging Concern.

What is a Contaminant of Emerging Concern?

A Contaminant of Emerging Concern (CEC) or emerging contaminant is a chemical that may have been found in water sources before in much smaller concentrations or maybe not at all that is now negatively affecting water quality in an area (1). Not only is it alarming that new chemicals are found in the water we use but also scientists aren’t sure what kind of effects these contaminants will have on us humans or the environment. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) (2) states that emerging contaminants have been recognized since around the 1960′s and 1970′s and more contaminants continue to arise and become more heavily researched. For examples, lead, arsenic, and pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) have all been recognized and continually researched as CECs (2,3). As my blog series continues, I will go more in depth in specific CECs, research done about them, and plausible solutions to these issues.

Solution for Water Pollution

On each post, I’ll add a question or comment to encourage readers to think about possible solutions or raise awareness about specific issues involving CECs. For this post, think about how many products you use involve washing it down the drain or going back into our water systems. Think of things like body wash, medicines, cleaning supplies, etc. 

References

1.  Emerging Contaminants. https://www.wqa.org/whats-in-your-water/emerging-contaminants (accessed Sep 29, 2019).

2.  Sauvé, S.; Desrosiers, M. A review of what is an emerging contaminant. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3938815/ (accessed Sep 29, 2019).

3. Contaminants of Emerging Concern including Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products. https://www.epa.gov/wqc/contaminants-emerging-concern-including-pharmaceuticals-and-personal-care-products (accessed Sep 29, 2019).