Occurrence and distribution of endocrine disrupting chemicals and pharmaceuticals in the river Bouregreg (Rabat, Morocco)

A study on the River Bouregreg in Rabat, Morocco, reveals widespread contamination by endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and pharmaceuticals. These pollutants, originating from municipal and industrial wastewater as well as agricultural runoff, were detected at all five sampling sites along the river, with the highest concentrations found near its mouth—up to 368 ng/L for EDCs like bisphenol A and estrone. Pharmaceuticals, including anti-inflammatory/analgesic drugs (detected in 80% of samples), antibiotics, and anti-epileptics, were also prevalent. The research used continuous solid-phase extraction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to analyze 27 compounds, highlighting the river's vulnerability due to reliance on surface water for drinking supply. Principal component analysis linked contamination patterns to water physico-chemical properties, underscoring the need for targeted pollution control in this UNESCO-listed urban landscape.

Chafi, S., Azzouz, A., & Ballesteros, E. (2022). Occurrence and distribution of endocrine disrupting chemicals and pharmaceuticals in the river Bouregreg (Rabat, Morocco). Chemosphere, 287, 132202. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132202