Two CSIRO researchers test for contaminants in a wetland area using water sampling instruments.
Contaminant chemistry and ecotoxicology: detecting emerging contaminants in environmental samples
Our research enables improved assessment of the risks posed by contaminants in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
- 7 March 2011 | Updated 14 October 2011
Overview
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Aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems are under threat worldwide from contaminants released through human activities such as mining, agriculture and urban and industrial development.
This has led to increasing community expectation that we protect our valuable ecosystem resources through the sound management and regulation of contaminant issues.
CSIRO’s Contaminant Chemistry and Ecotoxicology program is the largest contaminants research group in Australia and provides expert advice and leadership on contaminant issues to national and international government agencies.
Our research characterises the fate, transport and bioavailability of contaminants in landscapes and water bodies, and measures and predicts their ecotoxicological effects on biota in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
When required, we mobilise our capability in response to national emergencies and urgent government needs such as:
- characterising the threat of acid sulfate soils in the Lower Murray
- characterising major chemical spills for industry
- providing expert advice to formal Inquiries.
Several national and international drivers provide impetus to our research.
Internationally these include:
- initiatives such as the European Union’s REACH program and the Global Harmonisation System for chemicals
- UNEP’s Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM)
- the Stockholm treaty on persistent organic pollutants.
Similarly, national drivers include:
- revisions to the National Environmental Protection Measures for soil
- the National Water Quality Management Strategy
- development of Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling (EPHC)
- the revision of Australia and New Zealand’s Water and Sediment Quality Guidelines.
Read more about CSIRO Land and Water.
