Integrated Monitoring of Particle-Associated Transport of Persistent Organic Pollutants (PAHs as case study) in Contrasting Catchments in Southwest Germany

Strongly sorbing hydrophobic pollutants such as polycylic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are primarily subjected to particle-associated transport and thus are mobilized especially during high flow conditions when soils and sediments undergo erosion and urban runoff is intensified. Whereas soil pollutants reach rivers only slowly by erosion, untreated surface runoff from sealed urban space and stormwater releases are major immediate sources of particle bound pollutants. Chemical loads to rivers in general may increase with increasing population density or urban development of watersheds due to abundance of sources and impervious surface. Given the scope of anthropogenic impact, integrated and cost-effective strategies for containment monitoring in catchments are needed.