Actual contamination of the Danube and Sava Rivers at Belgrade (2013)

This study was focussed on a comprehensive investigation on the state of pollution of the Danube and Sava Rivers in the region of Belgrade. Different complementary analytical approaches were employed covering both i) organic contaminants in the river water by target analyses of hormones and neonicotinoids as well as non-target screening analyses and ii) heavy metals in the sediments. Finally, some common water quality parameters were analysed. The overall state of pollution is on a moderate level. Bulk parameters did not reveal any unusual observations. Moreover, quantification of preselected organic contaminants did not indicate to elevated pollution. More significant contaminations were registered for chromium, nickel, zinc and partially copper in sediments with values above the target values according to Serbian regulations. Lastly, non-target screening analysis revealed a wider spectrum of organic contaminants comprising pharmaceuticals, technical additives, personal care products and pesticides. The study presented a comprehensive view on the state of pollution of the Sava and Danube Rivers and is the base for setting up further monitoring programs. As a superior outcome, it was illustrated how different chemical analyses can result in different assessments of the river quality. A comparison of target and non-target analyses pointed to potential misinterpretation of the real state of pollution

EXPOSURE TO PARTICULATE MATTER AND HEAVY METALS IN THE POPULATIONS OF CENTRAL ZONES OF BELGRADE

Particulate matter (PM) is hazardous to human health. This paper deals with PM concentrations inambient and indoor air on three locations (two being in the central parts of the city and another onenearindustrial zone of the settlement of Lazarevac, lying in the outskirts of Belgrade). The aim of thepaper is to assess the scope of exposure to particulate matter and heavy metals (Pb, NI, Cr, Cd and As)adhered to them. Concentrations of PM in indoor air in the central zones of the city are lower than thesemeasured in ambient air. We concluded that the air is predominant source of heavy metals andmetalloids in the environment. Since people spend more than 80% of the time indoors, the control andelimination of local sources of pollution may significantly reduce the scope of exposure to individualpollutants