Polybrominated diphenyl ethers in soils of the modern Yellow River Delta, China: Occurrence, distribution and inventory

► Levels and patterns of PBDEs in the modern Yellow River Delta (mYRD) were determined. ► Spatial distribution of PBDEs in the soils from the mYRD was assessed. ► Organic matter controlled the PBDE distribution in the soil. ► Soil in this area might be a source of BDE209 for the Bohai Sea.