Aquatic ecological risks posed by tributyltin in united states surface waters: Pre‐1989 to 1996 data

Abstract

Acute and chronic risks to aquatic life from exposure to tributyltin (TBT) in surface waters were assessed probabilistically using more than 9 years of monitoring data. More than 50 sites around the United States were sampled, representing six saltwater regions and one freshwater (Lake Erie). Ambient TBT concentrations were compared to acute and chronic effect thresholds to estimate risks for each year (1986‐1988 and 1992‐1996), site type, and region. Site types comprised commercial harbors, shipyards, marinas, and fish/shellfish habitats proximate to these commercial areas. Tributyltin concentrations in surface waters have declined in all regions and site types since passage of the Organotin Antifouling Paint Control Act in 1988. No risks of acute toxicity have been suggested since 1994. Chronic risks have remained highest in marinas compared to other site types but have declined from a risk involving 25% of the species prior to 1989 to one involving 6% of the species in 1996. Risks associated with commercial harbors and shipyards have been similar (4‐6%) since 1994. Chronic risks have been ≤1% in fish and shellfish habitats sampled <1 to 2 km from TBT sources. Risks in Galveston Bay, over all years (1‐19%), have been greater than in the other regions (≤9%).

Efficiency of sediment quality guidelines for predicting toxicity: The case of the St. Lawrence river

“…However, in this area, high concentrations of organotin contaminants, such as tributyltin (TBT), were observed by Pelletier (2008). Because organotins have been historically considered as a problem in marine environments (Cardwell et al 1999), their impacts on freshwater ecosystems should not be overlooked. Organotins are persistent in sediments, and benthic invertebrates may be directly exposed to them as they ingest and burrow into sediments (Bartlett et al 2004).…”

Environmental management aspects for TBT antifouling wastes from the shipyards

“…Several studies reported that after the restrictions on the use of TBT on vessels <25 m long were imposed, the concentrations of the compound were reduced, especially in enclosed waterways and estuaries dominated by such ships (Becker-van Slooten and Tarradelas, 1995;Cardwell et al, 1999;Cleary, 1991;Maguire, 2000;Ruiz et al, 1996). Little or no reduction in TBT concentrations was observed in sediments, even several years after TBT regulations were enacted (Becker-van Slooten and Tarradelas, 1995;Maguire, 2000).…”

Frontiers in Green Chemistry: meeting the grand challenges for sustainability in R&D and manufacturing

“…It is extremely toxic to aquatic life and is an endocrine-disrupting chemical that can disrupt reproduction in aquatic organisms and does not degrade easily in water. Because of these concerns regulatory controls are now severely restricting or eliminating the use of TBT and its use as an antifoulant is now banned in Europe [6]. TBT compounds used for other biocidal purposes (e.g.…”