Levels of chemical and microbiological pollutants in the vicinity of a waste incineration plant and human health risks: temporal trends |
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Authors: | Vilavert Lolita Nadal Martí Figueras María J Kumar Vikas Domingo José L |
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Institution: | a Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201 Reus, Catalonia, Spain b Microbiology Unit, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201 Reus, Catalonia, Spain c Catchment Science Centre, University of Sheffield, S3 7HQ Sheffield, United Kingdom |
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Abstract: | In 2007, a program was initiated to monitor air levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and bioaerosols in the vicinity of a municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI) (Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain). To investigate the temporal trends of chemical and microbiological pollutants, four 6-monthly campaigns were performed. Air samples were collected at different distances and directions from the facility, as well as in reference sites. In general terms, the concentrations of microbiological agents were very similar to those found in urban zones worldwide. The seasonal evaluation of the results showed higher levels of gram-negative bacteria in winter, contrasting with the increase of the airborne amount of total bacteria in summer. On the other hand, the concentrations of VOCs (mean range: 7.6-18.2 μgm−3) were typical of suburban zones. The current exposure to those compounds should not mean additional health risks for the population living nearby. |
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Keywords: | Municipal solid waste incinerator Volatile organic compounds Bioaerosols Temporal trends Tarragona (Catalonia Spain) |
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