A recent study by the University of York revealed alarming levels of pharmaceutical contamination in rivers within England’s National Parks, including the Yorkshire Dales.
The research highlighted that out of 54 locations tested, 52 sites were found to contain traces of pharmaceuticals, including antidepressants and antibiotics.
This discovery is particularly concerning, as some of these pharmaceuticals were detected at dangerous levels for freshwater organisms and humans who come into contact with the water.
Concerns and Impacts of Pharmaceutical Contamination
Although the overall levels of pharmaceutical pollution in National Parks were generally lower than those found in urban rivers across the UK, certain areas exhibited “alarming exceptions.” Notably, rivers in the Peak District showed pharmaceutical concentrations higher than those recorded in major cities such as London. The University of York researchers raised concerns about the concentration of antibiotics in these rivers, which were found to be at levels that could promote antimicrobial resistance. This poses a significant health risk for individuals engaging in wild swimming, canoeing, and other water sports in these natural environments.
Professor Alistair Boxall, one of the leading researchers from the University of York, emphasised the importance of safeguarding these unique environments. “Our National Parks are true hotspots for biodiversity and essential for our physical and mental health. We need to act swiftly to protect these irreplaceable environments and ensure the health of wildlife and visitors alike,” he stated.
Factors Contributing to High Levels of Pharmaceutical Pollution
The study identified several factors contributing to these rivers’ unexpectedly high levels of pharmaceutical pollution, including limited water dilution, connectivity to sewage treatment systems, and seasonal population increases. Combined in often remote and fragile locations, these factors make National Parks particularly vulnerable to this type of pollution. Professor Boxall called for urgent collaboration among authorities to address this pressing issue.
In the study, rivers in the Peak District were found to be the most polluted, with 29 active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) detected. In contrast, the Yorkshire Dales had the fewest APIs, with only seven detected. Commonly found substances included the antihistamines cetirizine and fexofenadine, as well as metformin, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes.
Chlorine Dioxide (ClO2) Technology for Wastewater Treatment
The findings of this study underscore the need for effective wastewater treatment solutions to reduce pharmaceutical contaminants in water bodies. One promising approach involves using Chlorine Dioxide (ClO2) technology, as developed by Scotmas. ClO2 is a powerful oxidising agent that has shown significant potential in degrading a variety of pharmaceuticals in wastewater.
Efficacy of ClO2 in Degrading Pharmaceutical Contaminants
A Swedish laboratory-scale study demonstrated the efficacy of ClO2 in breaking down APIs during effluent treatment. The study involved the treatment of biologically treated effluents from two wastewater treatment works, one with extended nitrogen removal and one without. The effluents were spiked with 56 different APIs and then treated with varying concentrations of ClO2, ranging from 0.5 to 20 ppm.
The results showed that while 30% of the APIs resisted degradation even at the highest ClO2 dose, a significant portion of the pharmaceuticals was effectively reduced. Specifically, more than 90% of certain APIs were degraded at the lowest dose of ClO2. Additionally, the study found that low Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) effluents saw over 50% oxidation of APIs at a 5 ppm ClO2 dose. A significant increase in API oxidation was observed with an 8 ppm ClO2 treatment for high COD effluents.
Role of Scotmas ClO2 Technology in Mitigating Pharmaceutical Pollution
These findings indicate that ClO2 technology, such as that offered by Scotmas, can play a crucial role in reducing the pharmaceutical load in wastewater and protecting the environment and public health. As the University of York research highlights, the need for effective wastewater treatment has never been more critical, particularly in sensitive and ecologically important areas like National Parks.
Contact our team on +44 (0)1573 226901 or email us at enquiries@scotmas.com to learn more about how our Chlorine Dioxide technology can help improve the quality of our waterways and prevent environmental damage from pollutants.
