2. Distribution and fate of anthropogenic pollutants in the land-sea continuum
A significant part of our work involves collaboration with Pierre Fabre Dermo Cosmetique, which is interested in assessing the fate and biodegradability of various compounds present in its products, especially organic UV filters that are essential components of many personal care formulations, including sunscreens. Simultaneously, our group focuses on enhancing analytical techniques for detecting organic UV filters in the environment and assessing their biodegradability.
Furthermore, we investigate the role of natural organic matter (NOM) in aquatic ecosystems and its influence on the dispersion of anthropogenic pollutants, including metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Our goal is to gain a better understanding of how NOM interacts with these contaminants and affects their environmental mobility.
Some examples of recent publications from our unit on this topic include:
- Fagervold SK, Lebaron P (2022) Evaluation of the degradation capacity of WWTP sludge enrichment cultures towards several organic UV filters and the isolation of octocrylene-degrading microorganisms. Sci Total Environ 82
- Fagervold SK, Rohee C, Rodrigues AMS, Stien D, Lebaron P (2021) Efficient degradation of the organic UV filter benzophenone-3 by Sphingomonas wittichii strain BP14P isolated from WWTP sludge. Sci Total Environ 758
- Rodrigues AMS, Lebaron P, Downs CA, Stien D (2021) Optimization method for quantification of sunscreen organic ultraviolet filters in coastal sands. J. Sep. Sci.:10