PBDE contamination in Newfoundland: exploring the interconnections between environmental pathways, sociobehavioral insights, and public health impacts

Abstract

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widely used flame retardants that pose serious environmental and public health risks, especially for coastal communities dependent on marine resources. This thesis provides an integrated assessment of PBDE contamination in Newfoundland, examining emissions from a coastal legacy landfill in comparison to a modern landfill, and investigating the pathways into the marine ecosystem and the resulting impacts on human health. The study contributes to understanding PBDE contamination by offering a comprehensive assessment of environmental pathways, socio-behavioral factors, and public health impacts, with a particular focus on the influence of sociodemographic factors on seafood consumption patterns and risk perception. Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping characterized the spatial distribution of landfills and potential contaminant pathways, revealing potential routes for PBDEs to enter the marine environment. Elevated PBDE levels were identified in certain marine species, highlighting the ongoing presence of these chemicals. To assess bioaccumulation potential, trophic magnification models were utilized, indicating the potential for PBDEs to concentrate in higher levels of the food web. Community surveys revealed a disconnect between public awareness of pollutants and sustainable waste management practices, with sociodemographic factors, including age, education, and income level, significantly influencing both awareness and behavior. This study specifically examines the influence of these sociodemographic factors on seafood consumption patterns and risk perception. Furthermore, dietary exposure assessments, utilizing hazard quotients based on seafood consumption data, highlighted potential health risks for vulnerable populations, with estimated exposures exceeding established safety thresholds. This interdisciplinary approach not only addresses regional challenges but also offers a globally relevant framework for mitigating persistent organic pollutants in similar settings. By bridging environmental monitoring, behavioral insights, and health risk assessments, the research provides actionable solutions for policymakers and public health practitioners worldwide. These findings underscore the need for integrated mitigation strategies in coastal regions to minimize PBDE contamination and protect public health. This research provides a transferable framework, advocating for sustainable landfill management practices, targeted community-level interventions to promote proper waste disposal and reduce reliance on contaminated seafood, and robust public health monitoring to assess and mitigate risks.