Exploring persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the Danube River: An analysis of Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS) using NORMAN Database

Abstract Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are environmental contaminants that have been widely detected in various matrices, including air, water, sediment, and biota, across the globe, but their sources and fate remain poorly understood. This review aims to explore the occurrence of PBDEs and PFAS in the Danube River. The study employs the NORMAN database repository as a source of data pertaining to persistent organic pollutants (POPs). This study compares and evaluates the occurrence patterns of PBDEs and PFAS in various countries along the Danube River basin. The spatial results demonstrate a decreasing trend for PBDEs in surface water and biota, while a significant increase for PFAS is observed. The distributions of PBDE congeners in biota samples mirrored the compositional profiles in the water, which were dominated by BDE-47 and/or BDE-99, while BDE-209 predominated in sediments. In regards to PFAS, PFOA and PFOS are prevalent in surface water. In conclusion, the occurrence of PBDEs and PFAS in Europe is of significant concern, and regulatory policies have been implemented to control their use and release into the environment. The results of this study can be used to assess the health and environmental risks posed by POPs in the Black Sea and can aid in the formulation of future public health policies.