Abstract
This paper details how activity-based passive sampling methods (PSMs), which provide information on bioavailability in terms of freely dissolved contaminant concentrations (Cfree), can be used to better inform risk management decision making at multiple points in the process of assessing and managing contaminated sediment sites. PSMs can increase certainty in site investigation and management, because Cfree is a better predictor of bioavailability than total bulk sediment concentration (Ctotal) for 4 key endpoints included in conceptual site models (benthic organism toxicity, bioaccumulation, sediment flux, and water column exposures). The use of passive sampling devices (PSDs) presents challenges with respect to representative sampling for estimating average concentrations and other metrics relevant for exposure and risk assessment. These challenges can be addressed by designing studies that account for sources of variation associated with PSMs and considering appropriate spatial scales to meet study objectives. Possible applications of PSMs include: quantifying spatial and temporal trends in bioavailable contaminants, identifying and evaluating contaminant source contributions, calibrating site-specific models, and, improving weight-of-evidence based decision frameworks. PSM data can be used to assist in delineating sediment management zones based on likelihood of exposure effects, monitor remedy effectiveness, and, evaluate risk reduction after sediment treatment, disposal, or beneficial reuse after management actions. Examples are provided illustrating why PSMs and freely dissolved contaminant concentrations (Cfree) should be incorporated into contaminated sediment investigations and study designs to better focus on and understand contaminant bioavailability, more accurately estimate exposure to sediment-associated contaminants, and better inform risk management decisions. Research and communication needs for encouraging broader use are discussed. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2014;10:224–236. © 2014 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
Highlights
BackgroundConsiderable interest has been expressed in advancing the use of passive sampling methods (PSMs) and measurements of freely dissolved concentrations (Cfree) to increase awarenessPSMs for Sediment Risk Assessment and Management—Integr Environ Assess Manag 10, 2014 among the regulatory and regulated communities, as reflected in recent documents from the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA 2012a, 2012b, 2012c)
The present paper describes how site investigations and risk assessments can use PSMs to collect information on Cfree in sediment porewater to improve risk management decision‐making at contaminated sediment sites
The focus of this paper is on applications of PSMs for organic contaminants, similar applications should be possible for inorganic contaminants, once the application of PSMs to inorganic contaminants is further developed (Peijnenburg et al this issue)
Summary
BackgroundConsiderable interest has been expressed in advancing the use of passive sampling methods (PSMs) and measurements of freely dissolved concentrations (Cfree) to increase awarenessPSMs for Sediment Risk Assessment and Management—Integr Environ Assess Manag 10, 2014 among the regulatory and regulated communities, as reflected in recent documents from the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA 2012a, 2012b, 2012c). Cfree information provides more certainty for contaminated sediment assessment and risk management than bulk chemical analyses.
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