PCDDs, PCDFs, PCDTs, PCBs and some other organochlorine compounds in pine needles exposed to pulp and paper mill emissions and effects of waste combustion on the concentrations

Abstract

Concentrations of semivolatile chlorinated organic compounds α-HCH, lindane, HCB, DDT, DDE, DDD, chlordanes and PCBs, and low-volatility compounds PCDDs, PCDFs and PCDTs in pine needles in a recipient area of the emissions from a pulp and paper mill where also waste combustion was done were measured. Mostly, the concentrations were found to be near the background levels. Elevated concentrations of HCB, some PCB congeners and some HxCDF isomers in samples from two sampling points were observed. Some other possible point sources of these compounds are situated in the vicinity of the pulp and paper mill.. Also the community of Pietarsaari is one possible source of the slightly elevated concentrations.