Occurrence of phthalate esters in sediments in Qiantang River, China and inference with urbanization and river flow regime

► Concentrations of PAEs in the sediments were positively correlated with organic matter in Qiantang River. ► Urbanization increased the discharge of PAEs because of usage of plastic materials. ► River flow regime modified by dams significantly affected the distribution of PAEs. ► A phthalate ester exceeded a recommend environmental risk limit.