About this research
Sky Caitlyn Halford (Ngati Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, Rangitane o Wairarapa), University of Canterbury
Antidepressant medications are .frequently prescribed medications, with over 600,000 New Zealanders taking an antidepressant in 2019. Antidepressant compounds remain biologically active after passing through the body and are not removed in wastewater treatment. Exposure to antidepressant compounds has negative impacts on other species, including reduced fertility and escape responses, altered mating behaviours, and reduced camouflage. There is little information regarding the extent of antidepressant compounds entering the New Zealand environment through wastewater ejjl.uent and sludge, and the potential negative impacts on New Zealand native species.
This research aims to assess the extent of antidepressant compounds in New Zealand waste streams, and develop processes to reduce these compounds reaching the environment. Firstly, we will analyse three New Zealand wastewater treatment plants and determine which antidepressant compounds are present and at what concentrations. Secondly, we will investigate wastewater treatment options that have the potential to reduce and/or remove the most common antidepressant compounds. The final study will assess the toxicity of compounds follmving treatment to ensure the final products are less toxic and harmfiil than the original compounds.
The results will provide useable solutions for decision makers to mitigate negative effects of antidepressant medications, and support healthy and resilient communities and ecosystems.
Sky Caitlyn Halford (Ngati Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, Rangitane o Wairarapa), University of Canterbury
Antidepressant medications are .frequently prescribed medications, with over 600,000 New Zealanders taking an antidepressant in 2019. Antidepressant compounds remain biologically active after passing through the body and are not removed in wastewater treatment. Exposure to antidepressant compounds has negative impacts on other species, including reduced fertility and escape responses, altered mating behaviours, and reduced camouflage. There is little information regarding the extent of antidepressant compounds entering the New Zealand environment through wastewater ejjl.uent and sludge, and the potential negative impacts on New Zealand native species.
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