Description :
|
The mechanical–biological treatment (MBT) of municipal solid waste (MSW) has a number of
advantages in comparison to other MSW management possibilities. However, adverse health
effects related to this practice are not well known yet, as a varied typology of microbiological
and chemical agents may be generated and released. In 2010, we initiated an environmental
monitoring program to control air levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and microbiological
pollutants near an MBT plant in Montcada i Reixac (Catalonia, Spain). In order to assess any
temporal and seasonal trends, four 6-monthly campaigns were performed. Important fluctuations
were observed in the levels of different biological indicators (total and Gram-negative bacteria,
fungi grown at 25 °C and 37 °C, and more specifically, Aspergillus fumigatus). Although overall
bioaerosols concentrations were rather low, a certain increase in the mean values of bacteria
and fungi was observed in summer. In contrast, higher concentrations of VOCs were found in winter,
with the only exception of formaldehyde. Interestingly, although this compound was not detected in
one of the sampling campaigns, current airborne levels of formaldehyde were higher than those
previously reported in urban areas across Europe. Furthermore, the non-carcinogenic risks
(Hazard Quotient), particularly in winter, as well as the cancer risks associated with the
inhalation of VOCs, exceeded the threshold values (1 and 10−5, respectively), reaffirming the need
of continuing with the monitoring program, with special emphasis on formaldehyde, a carcinogenic/mutagenic
substance.
|