Pharmaceuticals, pesticides and illegal drugs are among a “cocktail of chemicals” found off the south coast, a study has found. Scientists have been investigating the water quality between Chichester and Langstone harbours near Portsmouth and have found more than 50 compounds in 228 samples across 22 sites.
They found pesticides – including simazine, propamocarb, imidacloprid, and clothianidin – and recreational drugs such as cocaine. Tests also revealed E.coli levels 760 times the safe limit set by the European Bathing Water Directive.
Sewage discharges and farming pollution are believed to be responsible for the chemical presence. Samples were taken by a group of residents called the Clean Harbours Partnership (CHP), who are concerned about pollution, and analysed by researchers at the University of Portsmouth and Brunel University London as part of Project Spotlight.
