Europe’s clean and contaminated rivers

Not surprisingly, like USA, Europe also has persistent organic chemicals in its rivers. These include pharmaceuticals and personal care products. The cleanest rivers were found in relatively unpopulated areas.

It makes one wonder what will turn up in our own rivers and streams if a similar study were to be done. Unfortunately, no such study was performed so far and if there was, the results were not publicised.

Europe’s clean and contaminated rivers

via ES&T Online News on 2/4/09

A new survey documents levels of persistent organic pollutants among other compounds such as caffeine and drugs in European surface waters.