Spatial variability and temporal changes of POPs in European background air

Concentration data on POPs in air is necessary to assess the effectiveness of international regulations aiming reduce emissions persistent organic pollutants (POPs) into environment. European background are continuously monitored using active- and passive sampling techniques at a limited number atmospheric monitoring stations. As result low spatial resolution such continuous monitoring, there understanding main sources controlling burdens across Europe. The key objectives this study were measure temporal variability concentrations with high (n = 101) 33 countries within Europe, use observations models concert if measured mainly governed by secondary or continuing primary emissions. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) was not only POP detected highest (median: 67 pg/m3), but also that had significantly increased over last decade. HCB positively correlated latitude. For other targeted POPs, observed southern part declining trend observed. Spatial differences changes example, γ-HCH (hexachlorocyclohexane) largest decrease south while α-HCH declined most central-east High occurrence degradation products organochlorine pesticides isomeric ratios indicated past usage. Model predictions PCB-153 (2,2’,4,4’,5,5’-hexachlorobiphenyl) Global EMEP Multi-media Modelling System suggest more important than burdens, relative importance influential Europe compared northern Our highlights major advantages combining mechanistic modelling approaches provide insights primary- emission Such knowledge considered vital for policy makers potential further reduction strategies legacy POPs.