Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), including pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), are increasingly being detected at low levels in surface waters. There is concern that these compounds may have an impact on aquatic life. It is important for EPA to be able to evaluate the potential impact of PPCPs on aquatic life and have an approach for determining protective levels for aquatic organisms. For this reason, EPA developed a white paper detailing the technical issues and recommendations to serve as a basis for modifying the 1985 Guidelines with respect to CECs.

Resource. EPA White Paper on Aquatic Life Criteria for Contaminants of Emerging Concern: General Challenges and Recommendations (Draft: June 3, 2008)

Return to Supplemental Module: Aquatic Life Criteria