Characterization and Exposure Assessment of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5) and Dioxins Produced by Garbage Burning

Abstract

Introduction: Garbage burning is an issue that affects two billion people worldwide, contributing to air pollution. Few studies have characterized and quantified the PAHs, VOCs, PM 2.5, and dioxins present in the smoke component in a communal setting. This dissertation aims to characterize the pollutants emitted by garbage burning and to estimate the risk of cancer for those who practice it or are exposed to the smoke produced by burning garbage in rural areas. Methods: Air samples from the smoke component produced by different garbage types were measured in a chamber for PM 2.5 PAHs, dioxins, and VOCs. Cancer risk at multiple distances from the source was estimated using a Gaussian plume model. Ambient air samples were collected as part of the San Carlos Apache Tribe Stop Burning Project. Backyard burning measurements of concentrations of PM 2.5 PAHs, dioxins, and VOCs were measured for the length of the burn. The contribution of garbage-type dioxins and PAH species was assessed via partial least squares regression. Results: The burning of plastics, cardboard, adult diapers and paper increases the likelihood of developing cancer over a lifetime due to the inhalation of PM 2.5 up to 20 meters away from the burning source in rural areas. Using PLSR, I identified the burning of plastics as the main contributor to the presence of 1,2,3,7,8 pentachlorodibenzofuran, 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran 1,2,3,4,7,8 hexachlorodibenzofuran, and 1,2,3,6,7,8 hexachlorodibenzofuran. The PAHs associated with plastic burning is of 1-methylnaphthalene, acenaphthylene, phenanthrene, and anthracene. These compounds increase the risk of cancer over a lifetime. Conclusion: I have addressed a gap in the literature regarding the use of real-time monitors and the pollutants produced by garbage burning at the source. Communal garbage burning studies are limited and represent a challenge for environmental health professionals due to many factors that affect the outcome and cannot be easily measured by a sampler. Garbage burning is an issue with sociopolitical ramifications that cannot be addressed by science alone.