Distribution of pollutants in the Odra river system - Part III. Organic pollutants in bottom sediments

Within the framework of the International Odra Project, the organic pollution level, i.e. with pesticides, volatile organic compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, chlorobenzenes, in Odra river sediment was studied by a scientific team from Gdansk University of Technology. From August 1997 to May 2000 seven sample collections were conducted, among others one immediately after the flood in 1997 (for sampling sites see map in Part I). The results of multi-annual investigations indicate that Odra river sediments are not polluted with pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and volatile organic compounds. The main problem, particularly in the upper course of the Odra river, is caused by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in sediments.