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Global distribution of persistent organochlorine compounds
1School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington 47405, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|September 29, 1995
Summary
Organochlorine compounds contaminate tree bark globally, with high levels found in both developing and industrialized nations. Volatile compounds travel long distances, while less volatile ones remain near their original use sites.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Global Contaminant Monitoring
Background:
- Organochlorine compounds are persistent pollutants with potential health risks.
- Understanding their global distribution is crucial for environmental risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the worldwide distribution of 22 organochlorine compounds.
- To identify factors influencing contaminant levels in tree bark.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of over 200 tree bark samples from 90 global sites.
- Quantification of 22 specific organochlorine compounds.
Main Results:
- High organochlorine concentrations detected in both developing and industrialized countries.
- Latitude-dependent distribution observed for volatile compounds (e.g., hexachlorobenzene), indicating global distillation.
- Less volatile compounds (e.g., endosulfan) showed regional persistence.
Conclusions:
- Organochlorine contamination is a widespread global issue.
- Compound volatility significantly impacts long-range transport and regional distribution patterns.