Emerging Contaminants

There are more than 85,000 chemicals commercially available in the United States, with new chemicals and technologies introduced each year. The number of substances released to the environment, improved analytical methods, and a growing body of information on adverse effects has increased interest by scientists, the public, and regulators in substances and toxic effects not historically monitored or assessed. These emerging contaminants are substances that have been detected in humans or other living organisms, have been found to be toxic in some way, or are persistent in the environment. Therefore, the substance may have the potential to cause adverse effects on human health or the environment. Examples include phthalates, perfluorooctanoic acids, brominated flame retardants, nanoparticles, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. A number of efforts are underway within the Delaware River Basin to identify, understand, and prioritize these emerging contaminants.

Emerging Contaminants of Concern in the Delaware River Basin: Vulnerability Assessment Preliminary Report (Feb. 2007; 322 KB*)

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