Water as a new matrix for global assessment of hydrophilic POPs

With the addition of perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), chlordecone, hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) isomers and endosulfan to the Stockholm Convention, the chemicals addressed no longer comprise solely hydrophobic organics. Water has become a widely-used environmental matrix for monitoring persistent organic pollutants (POPs), particularly for the chlorinated pesticides, despite challenges related to collecting samples and determining trace levels.We review sampling and analytical considerations for water sampling of less hydrophobic or hydrophilic POPs to identify and to recommend the best approaches, particularly for assessment of spatial and temporal trends on a global scale.“Active” and “passive” methods are available for sampling water for hydrophilic POPs, but no single approach can be recommended. We recommend a performance-based approach, in which sampling and quantitative analysis are needed so that future global trends of hydrophilic POPs can be monitored.

► Water is an environmental matrix for monitoring POPs, particularly PFOS and HCHs. ► We review sampling and analytical considerations for hydrophilic POPs in water. ► We aim to identify the best approaches, particularly for assessment of global trends. ► Performance-based sampling and a quantitative analytical approach are needed.