Unraveling the levels of emerging contaminants along the eastern Mediterranean Sea

Unraveling the levels of emerging contaminants along the eastern Mediterranean Sea

Abstract The Eastern Mediterranean Sea, rich in environmental and cultural heritage, faces increasing threats from emerging contaminants like toxic metals and phthalates. This study evaluates their occurrence across 40 Lebanese Mediterranean coastal hotspots using advanced techniques such as Inducti...

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Main Authors: Fatima Haydous, Bilal Nehmeh, Joseph Rebehmed, Josephine Al-Alam, Christopher Saab, Sara Sabbagh, Ali Hamieh, Ali Yassin, Mahmoud Wazne, Elias Akoury
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Nature Portfolio 2025-02-01
Series:Scientific Reports
Subjects:
Toxic metals
Phthalates
Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Wastewater
Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry
Mediterranean Sea
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-89027-8
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Summary:Abstract The Eastern Mediterranean Sea, rich in environmental and cultural heritage, faces increasing threats from emerging contaminants like toxic metals and phthalates. This study evaluates their occurrence across 40 Lebanese Mediterranean coastal hotspots using advanced techniques such as Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (XRF) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS). Widespread contamination was detected in both water and sediments near landfills, sewage discharges, and industrial areas. Metal concentrations varied, with chromium (Cr) reaching 20.3 µg/L, arsenic (As) 12.1 µg/L, and lead (Pb) 30.6 µg/L, indicating pollution from urban and industrial activities. Manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) were within safe limits, while selenium (Se) and arsenic posed ecological risks. Among 13 phthalates, diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) was the most prevalent, ranging from 15.57 to 72.88 µg/L. Sediments showed elevated calcium, strontium, and barium levels, exceeding safety thresholds. Statistical analysis revealed correlations between contaminants and spatial variability driven by industrial, agricultural, and urban activities. These findings highlight the need for proper regulations and routine monitoring to protect marine ecosystems and public health.
ISSN:2045-2322

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