A review on the occurrence of organophosphate flame retardants in the aquatic environment in China and implications for risk assessment

Organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs), used extensively as substitutes for polybrominated diphenyl ethers, are ubiquitous environmental contaminants. OPFR pollution in aquatic environments, the main sink of pollutants, has been studied extensively over the past decade. Here, we review the current knowledge on the consumption and applications of OPFRs, and on their ecotoxicity in aquatic environments worldwide. We also synthesize the available evidence on the occurrence of OPFRs in aquatic environments in China (wastewater treatment plant influent and effluent surface water, sediment, aquatic biota, and drinking water). Across China, the measured concentrations of OPFRs differ by more than three orders of magnitude. Risk assessments based on these measurements indicate a low level of ecological risk from OPFRs in most aquatic environments in China, and a low risk to human health from drinking water and aquatic products. Finally, we identify gaps in the current knowledge and directions for further research on OPFRs in aquatic environments. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This review summarizes the current knowledge on organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) in aquatic environments, with a focus on their consumption, applications, ecotoxicity, and occurrence in China. Risk assessments based on measured concentrations show low ecological risk in most aquatic environments in China and a low risk to human health from drinking water and aquatic products. Gaps in knowledge and future research directions on OPFRs in aquatic environments are also identified.