Occurrence, sources and environmental risk assessment of organic micropollutants in coastal sediments from the Atacama Region (Chile)

Abstract

Nowadays, there is still a scientific knowledge gap regarding occurrence and distribution of organic contaminants in remote areas. In this study, we have monitored for the first time the presence of a wide range of persistent and emerging organic pollutants in the Atacama Desert coastal region (Chile), a key area in the Humboldt Current System. Nonylphenols (NPs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pesticides, UV filters, synthetic fragrances, and organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) were determined in sediments along the >500 km length Atacama coastline. NPs, well-known endocrine disruptors, were the predominant pollutants in the area (up to 333.5 ng g−1 dw). We identified inputs of different classes of contaminants from anthropogenic activities such as mining, agriculture, direct effluent discharges, harbors, energy plants, recreational activities, and tourism occurring along the coastline. Environmental risk assessment through calculation of hazard quotients (HQs) showed a high ecological risk level for NPs in the three provinces of Atacama (HQ >1). In the case of PAHs, (pyrene, benz(a)anthracene, chrysene, acenaphthene, naphthalene and benzo(a)pyrene) HQ >1 was showed in Copiapó province. Furthermore, estradiol equivalent concentrations (EEQ) were determined to estimate estrogenicity of the environmental sediment samples. The maximum EEQ value was for NPs in H1 (Carrizal Bajo wetland), province of Huasco, where the highest concentration of NPs was found. The sampling point H1 is a particular location because it is the exit of a wetland and a tourist point used as a beach. The potential risks of anthropogenic chemical substances impacting remote regions such as the one studied here highlight the need of expand monitoring efforts worldwide for a better assessment of the global pollution status.