Antibiotics in Groundwater and Rivers from Livestock in China
Author Information
Author(s): Zhang Qi, Li Yanan, Kroeze Carolien, van de Schans Milou G.M., Baartman Jantiene, Yang Jing, Li Shiyang, Xu Wen, Wang Mengru, Ma Lin, Zhang Fusuo, Strokal Maryna
Primary Institution: Wageningen University & Research
Hypothesis
How do changes in manure management affect antibiotic pollution in rivers and groundwater in China?
Conclusion
Antibiotic pollution in rivers decreased by 59% from 2010 to 2020, while leaching into groundwater increased by 15%, primarily due to enhanced manure recycling practices.
Supporting Evidence
- Antibiotic inputs to rivers decreased by 59% from 2010 to 2020.
- Leaching of antibiotics into groundwater increased by 15% during the same period.
- Fluoroquinolones contributed approximately 55% to river pollution.
- Sulfonamides accounted for over 90% of antibiotics in groundwater.
- 50-90% of antibiotic losses originated from 40% of the basin areas.
Takeaway
This study looks at how antibiotics from farms affect rivers and groundwater in China. It found that while less antibiotic pollution is going into rivers now, more is seeping into the ground.
Methodology
The MARINA-Antibiotics model was developed to estimate antibiotic flows from livestock into rivers and groundwater across 395 sub-basins in China.
Limitations
The model did not account for sources such as antibiotics in sewage systems or manufacturing, which may lead to underestimations of pollution levels.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website