University of York reveal pharmaceuticals are polluting England's National Parks
New research has found widespread contamination
New research from the University of York and the Rivers Trust has revealed widespread contamination of rivers in 10 National Parks across England.
The study detected antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antimicrobials, anti-inflammatory substances, lipid regulators and diabetes treatments in river water at 52 out of 54 locations .
Some were found to be at levels of concern for the health of freshwater habitats and for humans who come into contact with the water.
Professor Alistair Boxall, from the University of York’s Department of Environment and Geography said:
“Given the unique ecological value of these protected areas, our research highlights that the presence of these pharmaceuticals is concerning. Our National Parks are true hotspots for biodiversity and essential for our physical health and mental well-being - so we need to act swiftly to protect these irreplaceable environments and ensure the health of wildlife and visitors alike.”
The pollution levels were generally lower in the national parks than in rivers in UK cities, but some rivers in the Peak District and on Exmoor were found to have concentrations of pharmaceuticals higher than seen in major cities such as London.
The results also raise concerns for the health of humans enjoying the space for wild swimming, canoeing and other water sports.
According to the study, pharmaceutical substances are most often released to the natural environment after a person has used the medicine (through their urine), but could end up there due to improper disposal of unused medicines or the use of medicines in animals.
Professor Boxall is now asking the government, local authorities and the water industry to work together to improve monitoring in national parks, for further investment in treatment technologies to protect rivers in the National Parks, and a further exploration of the potential impact of pharmaceuticals on the health of park ecosystems.