The effect of human leisure on water pollution

By Nina Notman2023-09-29T08:01:00

People enjoying a sunny day in a river in a valley

Source: © Wayne Broussard/Shutterstock

From cocaine to antihistamines, the surprising mix of chemicals detected after a day out at the river

Use the story and the accompanying summary slide to provide real-world context for 14–16 learners when studying water or analysis using instrumental techniques. Find out how human activities, such as tubing and swimming, significantly impact river chemistry. A US research group has studied contaminants present in the water at Clear Creek in Colorado and found organic contaminants including cocaine and pharmaceuticals such as antihistamines and anti-seizure medications after a busy public holiday.

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