Air concentrations of PCBs and OC pesticides using PUF-disks passive air samplers in Sicily Island, Mediterranean Region

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are ubiquitous on the planet. Because their physicochemical properties they are persistent and toxic and may become highly accumulated in the food chain. The Stockholm Convention on POPs which is coordinated through the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) is intended to reduce or eliminate the use, discharges and emissions of these compounds to improve the health of the environment. To assist member countries in assessing the “effectiveness” of their reduction efforts, UNEP Chemicals published a guidance document for the global monitoring of POPs. Of the media that are recommended for monitoring, the atmosphere is especially important because it re…