Human health risk from stormwater pollution

Abstract

Urban stormwater contains a diversity of pollutants and some can be toxic to human health such as heavy metals (HMs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). HMs and PAHs are primarily generated from traffic and land use related activities. They can pose potential risks to human health through stormwater reuse for recreational and potable purposes. In order to ensure safety in stormwater reuse, risk minimization is essential. Accurate and efficient assessment of the risk posed by HMs and PAHs in urban stormwater can provide a robust foundation for stormwater risk management in the context of stormwater reuse.