Emerging Contaminants in Botswana aquatic systems

Selwe, Kgato

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/121786 Copy

Description

Title

Emerging Contaminants in Botswana aquatic systems

Author(s)

Selwe, Kgato

Contributor(s)

• Dessent, Caroline
• Sallach, J. Brett

Issue Date

2023-04-19

Keyword(s)

• wastewater treatment plant
• aquatic systems
• PPCP

Geographic Coverage

Botswana

Abstract

The growing production and use of chemicals worldwide and the subsequent increase in environmental exposure of these chemicals has become a major concern for human and ecological health. Wastewater treatment plants effluent waters are typically released into rivers and into the environment, but inefficiencies in the treatment processes allow for the release of many emerging contaminants directly into often fragile aquatic environments. Additionally, many of these compounds undergo transformation during this process, leading to products that are potentially toxic. Modern advancements in analytical techniques now allow for the detection of emerging contaminants at low concentrations. However, little is known about chemical exposure in many parts of the world, including Botswana. Thus, we present the first study on emerging contaminants in Botswana aquatic systems assessing categories such as illicit drugs, pharmaceuticals and personal care products. A sampling campaign was carried out at wastewater treatment plants as well as environmental waters from multiple locations around the country. Samples were preconcentrated using solid-phase extraction prior to high resolution mass spectrometric analysis using a Thermo Fusion Tri-brid mass spectrometer. Non-target analysis and suspect screening techniques were employed to characterize the chemical pollutants and identify drivers of pollution in various regions throughout the country.

Has Part

https://youtu.be/MMfkREnojk0

Series/Report Name or Number

2023 Emerging Contaminants in the Environment Conference

Type of Resource

• text
• moving image

Language

eng

Owning Collections