December 16, 2024 — The NOAA Sea Grant program has recently announced the launch of new projects designed to address growing environmental and community health concerns related to contaminants of emerging concern (CECs). These contaminants, which include a wide range of substances that may be present in the environment but have not yet been thoroughly studied or regulated, pose significant risks to coastal and marine ecosystems as well as public health. With the funding of these projects, Sea Grant is taking a proactive step to mitigate these risks, especially in vulnerable communities that rely heavily on the health of their surrounding natural resources.
What Are Contaminants of Emerging Concern?
Contaminants of emerging concern are chemicals or pollutants that are not well understood, are often not regulated, and may have unknown environmental impacts. Some of the most concerning CECs include pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and industrial chemicals that have been detected in waterways and marine environments. While research on CECs is still in its early stages, there is growing evidence that these substances can accumulate in aquatic species and harm ecosystems, human health, and the economy, particularly in regions that rely on seafood harvesting and recreational water activities.
New Sea Grant Projects Focused on Community Impact
The new projects funded by NOAA’s Sea Grant program address these concerns in coastal communities. The initiative will focus on enhancing the understanding of how CECs affect water quality, wildlife, and human health, particularly in areas where communities depend on clean water and marine resources for their livelihoods.