Dioxins and Dioxin-Like PCBS in Solid Material from the River Elbe, its Tributaries and from the North Sea

A distinct PCDD/F contamination of the German Elbe sediments, originating from the Mulde catchment and in particular from the creek Spittelwasser, affects the River Elbe until the coastal waters of the North Sea. PCDD/F levels in these tributaries and in Elbe sediments downstream their confluence exceed available quality standards in relation to wildlife and human consumption, thus indicating the need for an appropriate management of contaminated sediments and alluvial soils. In addition the former magnesium production sites in the region of Bitterfeld-Wolfen need to be further investigated to assess the risk of further releases and to project adequate safeguarding measures. PCBs in the Elbe sediments instead are more abundant in the Czech Republic, again exceeding the available quality standards. In contrast to the PCDD/Fs, the spatial distribution of PCBs in the sediments is more uniform. From the data presented in this study no particular sources could be evidenced. More detailed surveys are needed to evaluate the potential for remediation measures along the Czech stretch.JRC.DDG.H.5-Rural, water and ecosystem resource