First worldwide UNEP interlaboratory study on persistent organic pollutants (POPs), with data on polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides

The first worldwide interlaboratory study on persistent organic pollutants (POPs) under the Stockholm Convention was organized, with a participation of 103 laboratories from Asia, Europe, the Americas, Africa and Australia, of which the majority submitted data on polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs). The participating laboratories were requested to analyze different matrices (i.e. two test solutions, and test materials for fish, sediment, fly ash and human milk). All results were statistically evaluated according to the procedures used in the European Union-based QUASIMEME proficiency-testing scheme.

► An interlaboratory study on POPs led to comparable results throughout the world.
► Laboratories from developed countries did better than those of developing countries.
► Better performance is needed to qualify for joining global monitoring programs.
► Long-term capacity building on POPs analysis is needed in developing countries.