Levels and ecological risk of selected organic pollutants in the high-altitude alpine cryosphere - The Adamello-Brenta Natural Park (Italy) as a case study

It is known that pesticides and other organic pollutants are transported from lowlands alpine valleys to high summits, where they stored in glaciers until melting occurs between July September. In this study, we aimed map glacial contamination by measuring the concentrations of currently used pesticides, synthetic fragrances, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) non-glacial meltwater six sites Italian Alps located within protected Adamello-Brenta Natural Park. We subsequently characterised ecological risk these contaminants aquatic fauna. Chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifos-methyl, terbuthylazine, galaxolide, tonalide, PAHs were detected September 2019 2020 across all sites. Risk characterisation indicated posed a low ecosystem at most sites, medium was associated only with fluoranthene pyrene Mandrone 2020. Regarding herbicides, calculated biocenosis acceptable under current European guidelines. Only chlorpyrifos an unacceptable invertebrates two sites: Amola (in 2019) 2020). A refinement chlorpyrifos, using species sensitivity distribution, level risk, as consistently below effect level. Chlorpyrifos not potential threat Alpine ecosystems; therefore, it advised continue monitoring equally potentially dangerous compounds could reach high-altitude environments through medium-range atmospheric transport. To preserve social value Park, natural capital priority. context, results study assume strategic importance supporting development future environmental conservation initiatives water management policies.