Environmental specimen banking in the Czech Republic: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Environmental specimen banking (ESB) is crucial for real-time environmental and health monitoring.
• Existing international ESB programs provide a framework for developing new initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a pilot study for establishing an environmental specimen bank in the Czech Republic.
• To discuss the selection of biomonitors, analytes, sampling techniques, and sites.
• To ensure harmonization with existing international ESB programs.

Main Methods:

• Selection of appropriate biomonitors and analytes for environmental and health assessment.
• Utilizing validated nuclear and spectroscopic techniques for elemental analysis (up to 30 elements).
• Employing chromatographic techniques for the speciation of metals and analysis of organic pollutants.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated availability of validated analytical methods for a wide range of elements and organic pollutants.
• Proposed a framework for biomonitor selection, sampling strategies, and site selection.
• Highlighted the potential for harmonization with international environmental specimen banking initiatives.

Conclusions:

• The proposed pilot study provides a foundation for a robust environmental specimen banking program in the Czech Republic.
• The study emphasizes the importance of validated analytical techniques and international harmonization for effective environmental and health monitoring.
• Successful implementation of ESB will enhance long-term environmental and health surveillance capabilities.