Issue 7, 2008

Inputs of chemicals from recreational activities into the Norwegian coastal zone

Abstract

Wastewater treatment works effluent is often considered to be one of the most important point sources of a wide range of anthropogenic contaminants to aquatic systems, however, this paper discusses other potential sources. With the aim of establishing the important sources of UV filters, insect repellent and biocides to the aquatic environment, samples were collected from sites with direct (bathing areas and marinas) and indirect (sites receiving wastewater effluent) human influences. Sunscreens containing UV filters are used in large volumes during the summer months and often applied shortly before a person enters the water for swimming activities. The results presented here demonstrate that washing directly from the skin is an important point source of 4 UV filters to the Oslofjord. The insect repellent, diethyl toluamide, was also measured and it was concluded that washing from the skin was not such an important point source into the fjord. Concentrations of the biocide Irgarol 1051 were also measured and were elevated in the small boat marina and surrounding enclosed area. This work demonstrates that mans recreational water-based activities are a diffuse source of some contaminants into coastal and fjord environments and this study provides an initial assessment of the levels being released.

Graphical abstract: Inputs of chemicals from recreational activities into the Norwegian coastal zone

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
11 Apr 2008
Accepted
02 Jun 2008
First published
17 Jun 2008

J. Environ. Monit., 2008,10, 894-898

Inputs of chemicals from recreational activities into the Norwegian coastal zone

K. H. Langford and K. V. Thomas, J. Environ. Monit., 2008, 10, 894 DOI: 10.1039/B806198J

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