Evaluating Wastewater Treatment Efficiency in Antarctica through Passive Sampling Techniques

Emerging contaminants (ECs) have been increasingly reported in Antarctic ecosystems despite the continent’s geographic isolation. Their presence is mainly associated with long-range transport, as well as localized human activities linked to scientific stations and tourism [1]. Historical waste management practices at Antarctic bases, such as open burning and direct disposal into marine environments, have contributed to legacy contamination, although more recent protocols have introduced wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) aimed at reducing environmental discharge [2]. Nevertheless, the efficiency of these systems remains highly variable under extreme polar operating conditions [3]. This study presents a combined targeted and suspect screening investigation of ECs in wastewater effluents from the South Korean Jang Bogo Station (JBS), using Polar Organic Chemical Integrative Samplers (POCIS) as passive sampling devices. Samples were collected during two austral summer campaigns (2022-2023 and 2023-2024) and analysed; a total of 14 compounds were detected and quantified through target analysis. The artificial sweetener sucralose was found to exhibit the highest concentrations, followed by pharmaceuticals such as metformin, atenolol and ibuprofen. Suspect screening identified 27-35 additional compounds, depending on the sampling period, with pharmaceuticals accounting for approximately 78% of the detected compounds, followed by personal care products. This study provides one of the first comprehensive assessments of ECs in Antarctic wastewater effluents using passive sampling and advanced analytical techniques. By integrating target and suspect screening approaches, this research contributes to a broader understanding of contaminant fate and exposure pathways in extreme environments. References [1] Bargagli R, Rota E. Environ Sci Adv. 3:543-560 (2024). [2] Aronson RB et al. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1223:82-107 (2011). [3] MacKeown H et al. Sci Total Environ. 925:171755 (2024).