Abstract
Background : Dioxins are produced during incomplete combustion of chlorine compounds in several industrial processes. They are suspected to play a role in the development of hormone-related cancers such as breast cancer. Aims : The Geo3N project aims to analyse the relation between environmental dioxin exposure from multiple sources and breast cancer in the French E3N cohort. A pilot study is conducted in the Rhône-Alpes Region (France). To estimate dioxin exposure through a geographic information system (GIS), a first step aims to make an inventory of dioxin emissions from 1990 to 2008. Methods : Inventory of relevant sources and dioxin emissions through public and institutional information sources were performed. We used the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Toolkit for Identification and Quantification of Dioxin and Furan Releases to assess relevant sources known to release dioxins and estimate annual dioxin emissions. Results : Based on the Toolkit, more than 200 relevant industries and activities in the Rhône-Alpes Region were included and detailed information on key parameters gathered (exact location, activity periods and levels, process characteristics and technologies). For some sources and periods, reliable data were lacking or nonexistent, in particular for closed sites and no measured releases were available prior to 1997 for larger plants. Based on the default UNEP emission factors, we estimated dioxin emissions for the 200 sources identified in the Rhône-Alpes Region and compared them when available, with dioxin release data. Source characteristics and emission estimates were reviewed by a panel of 8 experts. We will present and discuss results of applying the UNEP Tollkit to France to estimate dioxin releases from multiple sources. Conclusion : Although default emission factors may be prone to uncertainties, the Toolkit provides a standardized methodology, to estimate dioxin emissions. Combined with a GIS, it will contribute to improve characterization of dioxin exposures in epidemiology study design.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
