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Emerging Contaminants

A forward-looking approach

SFEI is a world leader in exploratory environmental research on new chemical concerns. Emerging contaminants are broadly defined as un- or under-regulated substances that can enter the environment and harm people and wildlife. The densely populated and urbanized San Francisco Bay Area provides a unique laboratory for investigations of emerging contaminants from common consumer products.

We use innovative monitoring techniques to identify emerging contaminants in water, sediment, fish, and wildlife in the Bay and beyond. We evaluate the risks to aquatic life, and work to connect contaminants back to their sources through studies of both urban stormwater runoff and treated wastewater discharges.

Photo: Shira Bezalel

Science to protect people and ecosystems

Identifying emerging contaminants early and quick action to prevent their spread is the most effective way to protect water quality, human health, and ecosystems. Our science directly informs statewide efforts to reduce the use of toxic chemicals and develop safer consumer products. 

SFEI data has directly inspired recent state policies on products ranging from cosmetics to vehicle tires, and also informs statewide strategies on monitoring and management. We have also documented the effectiveness of toxic chemical bans in ecosystem recovery.

Key Contaminants of Concern

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