Tijuana River pollution isn't just in the ocean - it's in the air too

A comprehensive study from UCSD and Scripps Institution of Oceanography reveals that pollutants from the Tijuana River are aerosolized and present in the air. Researchers tracked a chemical produced when the body metabolizes cocaine, observing spikes in its levels in both the ocean and air during Tijuana River flows. The study found that substances like octinoxate, a UV filter in sunscreen, reached levels comparable to those found above wastewater treatment plants. Researchers noted that concentrations were higher in the Tijuana River and Imperial Beach than in La Jolla, reinforcing the connection to the wastewater crisis. Kim Prather highlighted concerns over air quality amid previous disputes with county officials regarding health risks.

Though the study did not draw conclusions on health effects, the potential long-term exposure to these pollutants poses significant risks. Jonathan Slade stressed the importance of incorporating these findings into models to understand exposure levels better. The findings call for further research into the health implications of aerosolized pollutants in coastal regions.