April 9, 2002

MEDIA ADVISORY
Statement on USGS Study

The US Geological Survey study¹ released March 13, 2002 indicates that the trace levels of nonylphenol, octylphenol and their ethoxylates generally found in rivers and streams receiving human, industrial or agricultural wastewater are in line with the findings of numerous previous studies in the US.

The results are consistent with studies showing that nonylphenol, octylphenol and their ethoxylates are effectively eliminated from wastewater in properly functioning sewage treatment facilities and that residual amounts continue to biodegrade in receiving waters.

The concentration of nonylphenol exceeded the draft EPA Water Quality Criteria in only 4 of the 85 USGS samples, all of which were taken from rivers that were highly polluted, indicating undiluted effluent streams and/or a need for improved local wastewater treatment.

The Alkylphenol & Ethoxylates Research Council has reviewed extensive research and monitoring studies on the environmental fate of these compounds, conducted research in coordination with the US Environmental Protection Agency and is developing an NPE Environmental Management Program to promote the continued responsible handling and disposal of these compounds.

Further information on alkylphenols and the NPE Environmental Management Program is available from the Council and its web site (www.aperc.org).

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1. D.W. Kolpin and others, Pharmaceuticals, Hormones, and Other Organic Wastewater Contaminants in U.S. Streams, 1999-2000: A National Reconnaissance, Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 36, pages 1202-1211, 2002.

                                                                                                                             

 

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