Articles tagged with Chemical Pollution
The Southern California Environmental Health Sciences Center will continue to support research on air pollution, PFAS, and environmental health effects. The new grant will enable the center to expand its research programs and support junior investigators.
A study of 2.7 million marathon performances found that higher air pollution levels were associated with slower finishing times, particularly in recreational runners. Nitrogen dioxide levels were strongly linked to finishing times, with effects six times larger for recreational runners than elite athletes.
Scientists have identified key chemical reactions that occur when ultraviolet light is used to destroy PFAS pollutants in water. The discovery provides a roadmap for developing more effective cleanup technologies. The study found that ultraviolet light and sulfite generate highly reactive electrons that attack PFAS molecules, breaking ...
Researchers found altered gene expression in wharf roach guts after consuming expanded polystyrene, but no significant impact on lifespan. The gut microbiome showed little change, but rare microbes were detected in EPS-fed specimens. This highlights the need to manage EPS waste carefully and prioritize coastal cleanup efforts.
Researchers collected and analyzed wet and dry deposition samples, finding PFAS in forested watersheds, but attributed to breakdown of precursor compounds, not sea spray. The study suggests PFAS are likely transported from industrial centers elsewhere, raising environmental concerns.
Researchers found lead levels were 7 times higher near airports compared to other areas of Portland, with aviation fuel as the dominant source. The study highlights the need for soil testing to address lead exposure risks for children.
New research reveals that shipwrecks from WWI and WWII are leaking toxic chemicals into the North Sea, polluting the local ecosystem. The wrecks, including the German submarine UC-30, contain explosives that are harming starfish, mussels, and other marine life.
A cross-sectional study found that exposure to Agent Orange and open-air burn pits were independently associated with poorer mental and physical health outcomes among US veterans. The study highlights the need for continued support and resources for veterans affected by these toxic exposures.
A recent study reveals that marine microplastics can persist and leach chemicals from plastic additives even after fragmentation. Chemicals such as antioxidants, plasticizers, and flame retardants were detected in both microplastics and larger plastic debris collected around Japan.
A study analyzing Chinese and global soil metagenomes found substantial declines in antimicrobial resistance genes after China implemented its AMR control plan. The research suggests a close association between soil resistomes and antimicrobial use patterns across human and animal sectors.
Researchers recommend global framework for monitoring and managing novel entities, including tailored target values based on hazard potential. A three-step evaluation process assesses production, environmental behavior, and impacts of these substances.
A new study of nearly 1,500 pregnant participants found that following dietary guidelines may reduce exposure to many environmental chemicals from food and everyday products. However, the same dietary pattern does not lower exposure to all chemicals, with higher levels found in certain pesticides on fresh produce.
A newer 'climate-friendly' refrigerant used in car air conditioning systems may already be a significant source of a 'forever chemical' pollutant across Europe. HFO-1234yf is contributing to increasing levels of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in the atmosphere, which can form TFA and has been detected in water, plants, food, and human samp...
Researchers found evidence of early ozone loss dating back to the late 1950s, linked to carbon tetrachloride use, in contrast to CFCs' later role. This discovery reveals that modern monitoring tools could have detected earlier signs of human-induced depletion.
A study found wide variation in contamination by lead and arsenic in soil and ash from California homes burned by the Eaton and Palisades wildfires. Cleanup efforts reduced concentrations of these contaminants, but the study highlights a need for technical review and more effective cleanup methods.
The study found that gestational exposure to 10 classes of priority chemicals was associated with differences in gestational age at birth and lower birth weight-for-gestational age z scores. Reducing exposure to these chemicals could promote healthy deliveries and better child outcomes.
A new detection method for PFAS chemicals in drinking water has been developed by University of Kansas researchers. The fast-flow solid-phase extraction (SPE) approach reduces the time and cost required to analyze ultra-trace amounts, making it feasible for widespread implementation.
A new study by University of East London researchers aims to gather data on microplastic contamination across the Thames, combining new sampling with existing datasets. The findings could inform discussions around wastewater management, river protection, and plastic pollution policy.
A three-year research project aims to identify the molecular pathways linking exposure to pesticides and air pollution to Parkinson's disease development and progression. The study will analyze human stem cells, animal models, and genetic analyses to understand how environmental toxins trigger disease onset.
A $10 million grant from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences will support research on PFAS health effects and translate discoveries into real-world solutions. The study aims to identify links between PFAS exposure and metabolic conditions, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.
A human study found that prenatal and childhood exposure to persistent environmental chemicals may influence sperm chromosomal integrity decades later. Higher levels of PCBs and PFASs were associated with extra chromosomes in adulthood, increasing the risk of miscarriages and congenital birth defects.
Researchers discover hydrogen radicals play central role in PFAS degradation under high-energy UV light, breaking down molecules into smaller, less persistent compounds. This breakthrough provides a clearer understanding of the underlying mechanism and challenges previous assumptions.
The UFZ research team has developed a two-stage electrochemical purification process to efficiently degrade short-chain PFAS in water. This process uses electro-adsorption and electro-oxidation to concentrate and break down PFBA, resulting in easy separation of the fluoride by-product.
A study by the University of California, Davis, and State University of New York at Buffalo found that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were detected in over 90% of penguin leg bands in remote Patagonia. The non-invasive sampling method revealed a shift from legacy PFAS to newer replacement chemicals in the environment.
A global analysis of over 2,300 seawater samples reveals human-made chemicals make up a significant portion of organic matter in coastal oceans. Industrial chemicals, including plastics and consumer products, dominate the anthropogenic chemical signal, persisting even 20 kilometers offshore.
Scientists have developed a new catalyst that uses sunlight to break down polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of water-repellent chemicals linked to increased cancer risk. The technology could be scaled up for detection or removal from the environment and human body.
A study published in the Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology found that exposure to oleamide, a chemical additive in plastics, caused immediate changes in octopus prey choice and interactions with predators. The effects persisted for at least three days, suggesting a lasting impact on marine behavior and ecosystem dynamics.
A new treatment developed by EMBRAPA uses modulated UV-C light to combat anthracnose in guavas. The technique increases the fruit's natural resistance to microorganisms, preserving quality and shelf life.
A new study reveals that CFC replacement chemicals and anaesthetics are behind a third of a million tonnes of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) being deposited from the atmosphere across the Earth's surface between 2000 and 2022. TFA production is expected to continue growing, posing environmental concerns.
A new study by University of California San Diego researchers found that fossil fuel plastics can amplify harmful algae blooms by killing off zooplankton, leading to an increase in algal concentrations. In contrast, biodegradable plastics had a smaller impact on zooplankton and algal communities.
A new study found that higher levels of PFAS in the blood are linked to an increased risk of early onset of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in adolescents. MASLD affects up to 40% of children with obesity and increases long-term risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and liver cancer.
A global study reveals correlation between PFAS contamination in edible marine fish and human health risks. Consumers may be exposed to elevated levels of toxic compounds through imported fish, increasing food-safety risks despite low environmental pollution.
Chonnam National University scientists use an engineered enzyme to convert formaldehyde into L-glyceraldehyde, a valuable chiral C3 compound. The novel approach demonstrates how enzyme engineering can turn pollution into useful building blocks for medicine and industry.
A study published in Environmental Endocrinology found that teens with higher blood levels of PFAS before bariatric surgery had smaller improvements in blood sugar over five years. This could lead to the metabolic benefits of the surgery fading within a decade.
A new study highlights five ways microplastics can trigger inflammation and damage in the brain, including immune cell activity and oxidative stress. Microplastics weaken the blood–brain barrier, causing immune cells to attack them and leading to further damage.
Researchers found that sea salt particles interact with urban pollution, chemically reacting to form toxic compounds. After the COVID-19 lockdown, reduced pollution allowed more naturally occurring sea salt components to persist, offering potential implications for human health and climate.
A recent study by UCR found that increasing ethanol content in California gasoline from 10% to 15% significantly reduces emissions of carbon monoxide, total hydrocarbons, and non-methane hydrocarbons. Particulate emissions also drop significantly with the E15 blend.
A large-scale laboratory screening identified 168 chemicals toxic to human-made gut bacteria. Washing fruit and veggies before consumption may help avoid exposure to these pollutants. Researchers developed a machine learning model to predict chemical harm, emphasizing the need for safer industrial practices.
A new policy brief argues that current EU regulations fail to account for the risks of chemical mixtures, which can exceed safe levels even below individual substance limits. Scientists propose integrating a Mixture Allocation Factor into the REACH Regulation to regulate mixtures and improve protection of human health and the environment.
Researchers analyzed 70 plastic children's products sold in Brazil and found high levels of toxic substances, with barium levels up to 15 times higher than permitted. The study highlights the need for stricter enforcement measures to protect children's health.
Researchers at Binghamton University are testing the long-term stability and environmental effects of perovskite solar cells, a more environmentally friendly option, to prevent lead leakage and pollution. The study aims to improve the durability and recyclability of solar panels, enabling widespread adoption of renewable energy sources.
Researchers identified a significant association between perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA) exposure and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in adolescents. The study used advanced models to reveal PFHpA's role in disrupting biological pathways, leading to liver damage and inflammation.
A recent study found that 97% of scientists agree chemicals can impact wildlife behavior, yet only 30% of industry respondents support behavioral tests in chemical safety assessments. The researchers advocate for consistent testing methods and better cooperation between sectors to address the risks.
Researchers at Rice University have developed an eco-friendly technology to rapidly capture and destroy toxic PFAS in water, outperforming traditional methods. The new approach uses a layered double hydroxide material that can adsorb PFAS with record-breaking efficiency and be reused multiple times.
Researchers identify pesticide toxicity as a major concern, while PFAS accumulation poses long-term environmental risks. The study advocates for reducing the number of chemicals produced and used to ensure regulatory control over their impact on humans and the environment.
The Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC) Fund has launched its second call for project proposals, offering $300,000 to $800,000 grants to strengthen chemical laws and promote safer alternatives in developing countries. The fund supports medium-scale projects that build regulatory and technical capacity, foster cross-sector collaboration...
A study in Communications Earth & Environment found that WWII munitions in the Baltic Sea support a higher abundance of marine life than surrounding sediment. The hard metal casings on the munitions provide a suitable surface for organisms to inhabit, outweighing the disadvantages of chemical exposure.
Researchers found that four common PFAS triggered fat buildup and cancer-related changes, with effects differing by sex. Liver cells from male and female donors responded differently to PFAS exposure.
Research by Concordia University finds that individuals ingest tens of thousands of microplastic particles per year from single-use plastic water bottles, which can cause chronic health issues. The study highlights the need for education on the risks of daily plastic bottle use.
As Arctic permafrost thaws, geochemical reactions unleash metals like cadmium, harming fish and disrupting ecosystems. The Salmon River's transformation poses indirect threats to Indigenous communities and other species.
Researchers have found that Black Mambas accumulate heavy metals such as lead and mercury in their scales. This allows them to serve as a natural indicator of environmental pollution levels. By analyzing scale clippings from these snakes, scientists can accurately measure spatial patterns of pollution without harming the snakes.
A new study found that adolescents with higher blood levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) prior to bariatric surgery regained more weight and had greater increases in waist circumference up to five years after surgery. Researchers believe PFAS exposure disrupts endocrine and metabolic processes, leading to weight regain.
A new project at FAU aims to advance water quality monitoring in Lake Okeechobee by understanding how common contaminants break down after being released into freshwater environments. The team will deploy passive sampling devices and use cutting-edge chemical analysis to predict which contaminants are forming dangerous byproducts.
Researchers have identified 21 new PFAS chemicals in Sydney's tap water, exceeding previous estimates. The findings highlight the need for broader monitoring and underscore the persistence of 'forever chemicals' in human systems.
An international research team has proposed a comprehensive global framework for regulating tire additives, which are a significant source of environmental contamination. The framework aims to address the impacts of these chemicals on ecosystems and human health worldwide.
Researchers created a dual-functional metal-organic framework that both adsorbs and detects perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in real-time, making it a versatile solution for water treatment and environmental monitoring. The material's ability to fluoresce in the presence of PFOA enables efficient quantification and remediation.
A new study finds that cleaner air in East Asia, particularly China, has contributed to the recent acceleration in global warming. The region's aerosol reductions account for most of the observed warming since 2010, even after accounting for natural fluctuation events.
A new study reveals that pollutants can trigger nonlinear, unpredictable impacts on biodiversity across land, freshwater, and marine ecosystems. The proposed framework integrates real-time monitoring with predictive modeling to detect early warning signs of ecological tipping points.
A new study published in Nature provides a comprehensive overview of all chemicals that can be present in plastics, their properties, uses, and hazards. The study identified 4,200 plastic chemicals as of concern due to health and environmental hazards.
A team of researchers has developed a drone-based system to detect dicamba damage in soybean canopies, allowing for early detection and reporting of crop damage at the field scale. The system uses remote sensing technology to identify subtle canopy damage caused by dicamba vapor drift.