Reduce Toxic Contaminants

Research, monitor, assess, and support mitigation efforts on emerging and legacy toxic contaminants to reduce impacts on water and habitat quality in Long Island Sound.

Toxic contaminants can build up in the water and sediment of Long Island Sound and its surrounding bays. These include long-standing “legacy” pollutants like heavy metals, pesticides, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), and PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), as well as “emerging” contaminants such as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and nanomaterials. 

Many legacy contaminants have been reduced through wastewater permitting programs and cleanup efforts across the region. Still, some of these pollutants remain in sediments because they break down very slowly and can build up in the food chain. At the same time, new contaminants are being found more often in surface waters and may affect aquatic life—especially during sensitive stages like development and reproduction. 

This objective aims to improve sediment quality in Long Island Sound by increasing the area of sediment in good condition from 53% (based on 2005 data) to at least 63.6% by 2035. Progress is measured using data from the National Coastal Condition Assessment, which tests sediment for toxic chemicals. Additional studies, including fish tissue analysis and macroinvertebrate assessments, will help paint a more complete picture over time. 

Actions

• Identify existing and emerging contaminants of concern and support mitigation efforts. 
• Continue collection and evaluation of contaminant data. 
• Encourage proactive research and assessment of emerging contaminants.