Projects
29: Dynamic substance flow analysis model for selected brominated flame retardants as a basis for decision making on risk reduction measures (FABRO).
Time trends of substance flows from technosphere into the environment.
Temporal changes of material flows from the technosphere to the environment will be determined with a mathematical model for selected flame retardant additives. The results may serve as recommendations for future regulatory and technical measures regarding the use and disposal of these potential endocrine disruptors.
Leo Morf, GEO Partner AG Umweltmanagement, Zürich
e-mail: morf@geopartner.ch
Background
In order to reduce flammability and prevent the eruption of fires large quanties of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are used as additives in combustible materials, e.g. plastics. Many examples of BFRs qualify as persistent bioaccumulative and toxic substances (PBTs). However, substantial evidence exists that types of BFRs are potential endocrine disruptors. Up to date research has mainly focused on aspects of exposure to this group of substances, their occurrence and fate in the environment. In order to elaborate on recommendations for future regulatory and technical measures to reduce the risk for humans and the environment, the occurrence and fate of BFRs during use and disposal activities (anthropogenic metabolism) needs to be understood in greater detail.
Aim
The main objective of the project is to determine the substance transfer from the anthroposphere (technosphere) into the environment (ecosphere) for selected BFRs by applying a time dependent mathematical model that analyses substance flows and the accumulation in the technosphere.
The three main tasks of this project will be:
(a) to understand the temporal behaviour of the anthropogenic metabolism (time trends of flows and accumulation during use and disposal, as well as the release into the technosphere)
(b) to link the results of this project with results from previous research (e.g. temporal trend of levels in sediments) in order to derive causalities
(c) to use the latest available data.
Significance
The project's objective is to supply valuable data for the early recognition of potential future problems relating to selected chemicals with endocrine distruptor potential. This is essential to the process of determining adequate regulatory and technical measures, and for avoiding costly remedial action.
The project's outcomes are also beneficial as they will deliver valuable information for authorities and other stakeholders to take appropriate risk reduction measures against those who are potential candidates for the "Persistent Organic Pollutant Stockholm Convention List", e.g. PentaBDE.