Contaminants of emerging concern in water and sediment of the Venice Lagoon, Italy

A first-of-its-kind study reveals widespread contamination of the Venice Lagoon by 20 emerging contaminants, including neonicotinoid insecticides (detected in 73–92% of water samples), UV filters, and pharmaceuticals like diclofenac. Sediment analysis highlighted persistent antioxidants and antibiotics, suggesting tributary rivers and treated wastewater as key emission sources. While no clear seasonal or spatial trends emerged, the findings underscore the need for targeted monitoring to prioritize contaminants and refine future conservation strategies for this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pizzini, S., Giubilato, E., Morabito, E., Barbaro, E., Bonetto, A., Calgaro, L., Feltracco, M., Semenzin, E., Vecchiato, M., Zangrando, R., Gambaro, A., & Marcomini, A. (2024). Contaminants of emerging concern in water and sediment of the Venice Lagoon, Italy. Environmental Research, 249, 118401. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2024.118401