Ecotoxicology of cadmium

Abstract

This report is a condensation of a major work of the Ecotoxicology Section of the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Commission of the European Communities. A comprehensive review of the worldwide pollution by cadmium has been made. The present and future potential for human and animal intoxication by this metal has been critically examined. The report makes a number of recommendations in the Conclusions that call for measures to be taken to reduce the emissions of cadmium because there is a relatively low safety margin in the ecosystems and in food consumed by the general population. Some groups are currently at risk and continuing surveys are necessary in order that proper safety measures may be taken in the near future.