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Project Code [2013-W-MS-14]

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Project title

Assessment of natural organic matter (NOM) and ptaquiloside in Irish waters

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)

Lead Applicant

Liwen Xiao

Project Abstract

Natural organic matter (NOM) is one of the main sources of environmental pollution to drinking water supplies in Ireland. In addition to aesthetic problems such as colour, taste and odour, NOM serves as precursor for the formation of carcinogen trihalomethanes (THMs). The Irish EPA found that about 12.9 % and 25.3 % of the water treatment plants in public water supplies and Public Group Water Schemes, respectively, failed to meet the THMs parametric value of 100 ?g L-1. In addition to the THMs problems arising from NOM, there is increased recognition and concern about the risk of naturally-accurring organic toxins such as ptaquiloside from braken in raw water. Therefore, in this proposed research: � High risk catchments for public and private water supplies (surface water and groundwater) in relation to NOM and ptaquiloside will be identified across Ireland � Six high risk catchments will be selected for NOM and ptaquiloside monitoring, modelling and risk assessment. � Guidelines to reduce risk of NOM and ptaquiloside in Irish waters will be developed. This project will develop network with the Food and Environmental Research Agency (FERA)� in the UK for ptaquiloside monitoring. In the proposed research, it is expected that: � An Ireland-UK ptaquiloside monitoring network will be established by collaborating with FERA UK. � Final report, 4 masters theses, 4 peer reviewed journal papers and six-monthly newsletters will be prepared/published � Finding will be presented in peer reviewed national and international conferences � Guidelines to reduce the risk of NOM in Irish waters will be prepared � Database about NOM and ptaquiloside will be developed � Two models for the estimation of NOM and ptaquiloside concentrations will be calibrated � Study catchments will be developed as education and research demonstration sites

Grant Approved

�199,216.25

Research Hub

Healthy Environment

Research Theme

Impacts on Aquatic Ecosystems & Human Health (including Drinking Water)

Start Date

01/03/2014

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/09/2016