Impact of ultraviolet filters and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon from recreational activities on water reservoirs in southeast Queensland Australia.

Summary

Across 14 lakes over 3 years, 15 PAHs and six UV filters were detected; chrysene (97%) and octyl salicylate (34%) were most prevalent. PAHs were significantly higher in petrol-powered boating lakes in summer, while UV filters were higher where swimming was allowed, with evidence of illegal swimming at non-permitted sites. Although concentrations were below freshwater guidelines, bioaccumulation and mixture toxicity warrant mitigation.

Key Findings

• Detected 15 PAHs and six UV filters across 14 lakes; chrysene (97%) and octyl salicylate (34%) were most prevalent.
• PAH levels were significantly higher in petrol-powered boating lakes, especially in summer (p=0.005–0.05).
• UV filters were higher in lakes allowing swimming; elevated levels at non-permitted lakes suggested illegal swimming.
• All individual compounds were below freshwater guidelines, but bioaccumulation and mixture toxicity raise concern.

Clinical Implications

Dermatology and public health guidance can emphasize low-persistence UV filters and promote behaviors and policies (e.g., designated swimming areas, boating controls) that reduce environmental load without compromising photoprotection.

Limitations

• Observational design limits causal inference; multiple confounders (lake size, hydrology) may influence levels
• No direct assessment of organismal toxicity or bioaccumulation in biota

Future Directions

Quantify bioaccumulation and mixture toxicity in aquatic organisms, model source contributions, and evaluate policy impacts of low-persistence UV filters and recreation management.