Runoff from building materials affect the surrounding environment
How does runoff from different building materials affect aquatic organisms? This was the subject of a new study from Luleå University of Technology. For the first time, the actual effects of runoff on the aquatic organisms were investigated.
"Exterior building materials are known as one of the largest contributors of pollutants to stormwater which, in turn, is often transported untreated to nearby lakes and streams," explains Alexandra Müller, Associate Senior Lecturer in Urban Water Engineering at Luleå University of Technology.
The researchers analyzed runoff from seven commonly used materials: sheets of copper, zinc, galvanized steel and stainless steel; bitumen-based roofing felt and PVC roofing membrane from two different manufacturers. Toxicological tests were carried out on three different test organisms: a type of green algae, a crustacean and zebrafish eggs.
"Several studies have investigated the quality of runoff from different types of building materials with respect to several different pollutant groups, but testing the actual effects that this runoff can have on aquatic organisms is new and there is limited knowledge about this," says Alexandra Müller.
Affected all organisms
The results showed that all three test organisms were negatively affected by the runoff, which can harm aquatic organisms if it reaches lakes or rivers. The study observed toxic effects on the three test organisms, with copper sheet runoff proving particularly toxic.
"Effects in lakes and water bodies are difficult to predict and they depend, among other things, on dilution effects when runoff from buildings mixes with other stormwater and in receiving waters. But avoiding the release of harmful substances, or treating water close to the source, is often the most effective way to prevent negative impacts in lakes and rivers," explains Alexandra Müller.
How can this new research make a difference?
"This knowledge can form the basis for upstream work and minimizing negative effects in our surface waters caused by the leached substances. This type of study can help to support the choice of environmentally sustainable building materials in new construction and renovation of existing buildings – perhaps in the future through regulations or guidance."
Updated: