Organic contaminants in the aquatic environment I. Sources and occurrence

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Literature pertaining to the sources and occurrence of organic compounds in raw, potable and waste waters is reviewed. The introduction of organic micropollutants into the hydrological cycle is considered in terms of both point and non-point source discharges and the individual industrial and domestic sources of particular classes of organic chemicals are assessed. The occurrence in waters and waste waters of a wide variety of organic contaminants has been evaluated with regard to their concentrations in particular aqueous samples and frequency of occurrence. Although specific sources are known to be responsible for the addition of certain organic compounds to water and waste water, the occurrence of particular compounds cannot always be related to a particular source. In addition, it is evident that the reported occurrence of many organic contaminants has been limited by the capabilities of presently available analytical techniques. With the number of organic chemicals in use increasing, the potential for continued contamination of water resources exists. The implications for water quality and the possible effects generated by the introduction of organic compounds into the hydrological cycle on water re-use operations are discussed.