Global aquatic passive sampling (AQUA-GAPS): Using passive samplers to monitor POPs in the waters of the world

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

2-1-2010

Abstract

In summary, we believe there are major benefits in starting global aquatic passive sampling (AQUA-GAPS) and propose the phased development of an AQUA-GAPS network of stations. The program could be started by initiating monitoring with PE samplers at accessible and relatively well studied key locations e.g., the Great Lakes, U.S. east coast, Baltic, North Seas, Mediterranean, or South China Seas. Investigators with access to ship time and buoys would be invited to participate to locate samplers and if capable, also analyze them. Although analyzing samples in a central lab would be desirable (akin to GAPS), we believe multiple laboratories could be involved provided existence of an interlaboratory quality assurance and training program. The list of POPs to be analyzed would be those readily detected by low-resolution GC-MS and for which analytical standards are readily available (e.g., legacy chlorinated pesticides, lindane, endosulfan, selected PCB congeners, chlorobenzenes, tetra- and pentaBDEs). The program would also encourage deployment of different passive devices for comparison with PE samplers. Some of the SC's regional and subregional centers for POPs located near deployment sites might want to be involved for their roles of capacity building and technology transfer.Wethus seek volunteer investigators to help conduct the initial monitoring phase including the associated costs for passive sampler deployment and analysis. With such cooperation, we can foresee improved monitoring of the global aquatic environment to enhance its and our long-term health. © 2010 American Chemical Society.

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

Environmental Science and Technology

Volume

44

Issue

3

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