http://www.ecotoxcentre.ch Wed, 29 Jul 2015 16:34:07 EST Mon, 20 Apr 2026 21:06:33 EST en Umbraco https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/webinar-quality-monitoring-in-surface-waters-26-2-2026-15-00-16-30-uhr A series of webinars organised by the German Water Chemistry Society highlights the opportunities and possibilities of bioassays for assessing water quality. The Ecotox Centre is hosting this webinar which was already offered in German last October. 17.02.2026 10:11:54 EST b2f10fbc-61ba-43aa-99f7-8ce893c6922e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/webinar-bioassays-for-drinking-water-assessment-on-24-2-2026-14-30-16-00 A series of webinars organised by the German Water Chemistry Society highlights the opportunities and possibilities of bioassays for assessing water quality. The Ecotox Centre is hosting the third webinar on the use of effect-based methods for testing of drinking water. 13.02.2026 12:11:26 EST cd9677f5-76af-49b3-b73c-17a76269cf55 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-in-srf-kassensturz-programme-on-drain-cleaners Cornelia Kienle advised SRF Kassensturz on the evaluation of drain cleaners. These products contain many aggressive substances. 11.02.2026 09:31:23 EST 8824e102-b0cf-4dd5-92e0-80a185aa7b1e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/rare-earths-pollute-zurichs-waters An investigation in the canton of Zurich has shown that certain rare earth elements can enter bodies of water via wastewater treatment plants in concentrations that pose a risk to aquatic organisms. These elements are gadolinium, which comes from contrast agents used in healthcare facilities, as well as lanthanum and cerium, which are used in a number of wastewater treatment plants to remove phosphorus. 10.02.2026 16:38:25 EST fd9c09e9-b652-44a0-b4ae-c5ed9e92fda5 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/podcast-on-pfas-in-drinking-water How do PFAS end up in the environment and in drinking water? And what can be done about it? Ecotox Centre scientist Alexandra Kroll and former cantonal chemist Kurt Seiler explain why limit values are not enough and where we need to start earlier. 09.01.2026 13:59:42 EST 843a6e7e-a11e-4417-9a0a-2a5b745ec6aa https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/safer-receipts-without-bisphenols Researchers at EPFL have developed a new formula for thermal paper that is free of harmful bisphenols. According to toxicological studies conducted by the Ecotox Center, the wood-based substitutes used are significantly less problematic than traditional substances. 08.01.2026 13:44:48 EST 98c3f591-2bd4-4f7f-a49c-fc8522bfb7f6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/webinar-on-antimicrobial-resistances-in-the-environment-20-january-2026-4-p-m The Ecotox Centre invites you to a webinar with Prof. Ed Topp (INRAE) on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, at 4 p.m. on the topic of ‘The environmental relevance of antimicrobial resistances’. 02.12.2025 14:28:46 EST 0fb561fb-2330-4b66-ab5f-5ec04ccb4a06 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/monitoring-concept-for-plant-protection-products-in-swiss-soils The Ecotox Centre is working with the National Soil Monitoring Programme (NABO) / Agroscope and EnviBioSoil on a concept for monitoring pesticide residues in Swiss agricultural soils. The project is part of the federal government's action plan for risk reduction and sustainable use of pesticides. Project manager and soil ecotoxicologist Mathieu Renaud reports on the progress made so far. 13.11.2025 12:04:00 EST 0cba61f1-1b62-4e17-a56a-a13793ef09b0 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/sunscreen-and-bathing-lakes-what-happens-to-uv-filters-in-swiss-lakes-and-experimental-ponds UV filters from sunscreens have been detected in Swiss lakes in concentrations that in some cases exceed the provisional environmental quality criteria. In both lakes and experimental ponds, lipophilic UV filters such as octocrylene tend to accumulate at the water surface. Additional data on behaviour and toxicity in sediments is currently being collected in order to refine the quality criteria. 11.11.2025 08:43:20 EST a8a3e2df-1e14-442c-b483-af69c9f1f7ff https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/pesticide-inputs-into-swiss-streams A comprehensive screening of five Swiss watercourses detected 135 pesticides, many of which exceeded ecotoxicological quality criteria. At four locations, there was a high risk to aquatic organisms over a period of several weeks, mainly due to insecticides. Input via wastewater treatment plants also contributed to pesticide pollution. 07.11.2025 16:45:21 EST 351260cb-1a9c-43af-bc74-b6bbf60ede88 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/sediment-worms-investigate-the-effect-of-wastewater-on-stream-health Sediment worms can be used to assess the impact of pollutants on watercourses. New studies show that treated wastewater contaminates sediments and, in some locations, can also infiltrate groundwater. A significant improvement was achieved by upgrading the facilities under investigation with an additional treatment stage. 05.11.2025 09:34:35 EST bbd4f255-3ac4-438e-aa35-db045283645e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/panel-discussion-gewaesser-in-gefahr-3-11-19-00 On Monday, 3 November at 7 p.m., Cornelia Kienle will take part in the Körber-Foundation's panel discussion "Gewässer in Gefahr" in Hamburg. Online participation is possible via livestream. 31.10.2025 13:20:20 EST 8dde738c-03ea-449f-98ad-9ece280cfd2c https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/updated-pfas-info-sheet The Ecotox Centre has updated its info sheet on PFAS, taking into account relevant developments and regulatory changes. The info sheet provides details on the occurrence of these substances, their toxicity and the legal situation. 14.10.2025 13:00:34 EST 03a29c8e-51ea-47bb-a0b6-a8c8165ea76b https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/webinar-bioassays-for-assessing-surface-water-quality-28-10-2025-14-30-16-00 A new series of webinars organised by the German Water Chemistry Society highlights the opportunities and possibilities of bioassays for assessing water quality. The Ecotox Centre is also contributing to the second webinar on the use of effect-based methods for assessing suface water quality. 03.10.2025 13:34:27 EST 79996886-cc9c-4615-a35e-3990a2f5198c https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/pesticides-in-swiss-streams-much-remains-to-be-done Recent studies shed light on which pesticides are particularly relevant to the pollution of Swiss watercourses and where they come from. 02.10.2025 16:42:30 EST da84e112-2518-46e5-b0ef-b4538d565c71 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/scientists-from-japan-at-the-ecotox-centre Miyu Moriya from the University of Shizuoka and Dr. Arisa Banno from the Research Institute for Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries in Osaka are working on advancing pesticide analysis using passive samplers. 24.09.2025 13:18:37 EST 3912e974-f7ba-4ee0-b2e0-6c0c41e4a28e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-in-srf-schweiz-aktuell-on-the-contamination-of-sediments Rebecca Beauvais talks to SRF about the problem of contaminated sediments and the danger that the pollutants stored there can be remobilised again - for example during flooding or dredging. 05.09.2025 16:09:16 EST 207494d5-fab8-4a4f-9f65-458c14559ca6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/dialogue-day-2025-in-bern During a dialogue day, the Ecotox Centre presented its current projects and exchanged ideas with stakeholders from various fields. 27.08.2025 16:30:50 EST a81c8f96-9ca4-410c-a903-37d3839781e6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-in-rts-a-bon-entendeur-on-tire-residues Every year, more than 10,000 tonnes of tire abrasion are generated in Switzerland, containing potentially problematic substances. Some of these compounds can end up in fruit or vegetables – a new environmental problem that raises important questions for health and ecosystems. 20.08.2025 10:55:21 EST 544e749f-5c6d-4c47-b369-d1a527a54995 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/background-to-the-debate-on-the-feedback-loop-for-pesticides-new-info-sheet A FAQ sheet from the Ecotox Centre provides information on the scientific and regulatory background to the debate on changing the criteria for the feedback loop between water monitoring and the authorisation of plant protection products and biocides. 11.07.2025 15:16:14 EST 851491b4-6cdd-423e-8e4a-cd1f0caeb342 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-at-the-pharm-era-summer-school-in-malta Two weeks ago, the Ecotox Centre had the pleasure of contributing to the Pharm-ERA Doctoral Network Summer School in environmental chemistry, ecotoxicology, and risk assessment in Malta. 04.07.2025 14:11:13 EST 911c26f4-e6b3-4c96-9d67-cdcec609f00e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-dialogue-day-2025 We are pleased to invite you to this year's Ecotox Centre Dialogue Day, which will take place on Tuesday, 26 August 2025, from 9.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. in Bern (bilingual German/French with simultaneous translation). 26.06.2025 09:22:42 EST ec1d2bca-c798-423b-ad5a-26dc5509041d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicological-assessment-of-contaminated-sites A new report from the Ecotox Centre provides an overview of suitable bioassays for the assessment of contaminated sites. 06.06.2025 14:26:14 EST 27f64701-b9cc-4c67-8036-55abba8654f1 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/why-did-the-trout-in-the-ruisseau-des-marais-disappear-a-search-for-clues-using-ecotoxicological-methods The number of brown trout in the Ruisseau des Marais in the canton of Geneva has fallen dramatically. The Ecotox Centre investigated the causes using a variety of ecotoxicological water and sediment tests and biomarkers. 21.05.2025 08:52:01 EST e2eb9d95-8150-4dfd-b7b0-6d39289464ae https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/quality-criteria-at-the-ecotox-centre-new-values-and-substances-new-complete-list Do you need to assess environmental concentrations of chemicals? The Ecotox Centre maintains an extensive database of environmental quality criteria (EQC) and other ecotoxicological threshold values, which we have now expanded to include new information. 20.05.2025 14:28:29 EST 3c72fd33-07f0-4b33-b916-b8bcabc73da0 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/earthworms-avoid-tire-abrasion Tire abrasion gets from the road into the adjacent soil and can affect the soil organisms living there. A new study shows that earthworms avoid soil that is heavily contaminated with tire particles. However, the particles had no negative effects on the survival and reproduction of the animals. 16.05.2025 13:02:21 EST 51f3a0fa-3240-438c-9b99-a8c87bec1fd3 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/early-detection-for-wastewater-treatment-plants A combination of biological and chemical online monitoring was tested as an early warning system at a municipal wastewater treatment plant. The system is able to detect peak loads of micropollutants in treated wastewater and to recognise toxic pollutants in real time. It can therefore help to improve wastewater management. 15.05.2025 13:23:34 EST 0d9ca733-2d4c-4344-b013-039735c28c52 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-at-epfl-interview-with-christof-holliger Christof Holliger, Professor of Environmental Biotechnology at EPFL, has been closely involved with the Ecotox Centre since it was founded in 2008, initially as part of the direction and the strategic steering committee and later as the representative of EPFL on the host institute council. He retired at the end of February 2025. Here he looks back. 14.05.2025 15:53:01 EST 17192257-4a59-4ba4-8966-baee2bcd364e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/assessing-the-water-quality-in-lake-geneva Bioassays are also an important complement to chemical analysis in lakes when it comes to determining water quality. The use of numerous bioassays in Lake Geneva shows that fish embryo tests are particularly sensitive. Reporter tests have also provided valuable information on water pollution. 13.05.2025 14:55:06 EST c55f7c73-06b1-40cb-85bf-45b78904193a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/replacement-of-peat-in-artificial-soils-and-sediments Last Tuesday, the Ecotox Centre hosted the kick-off meeting for the OECD project RePEAT, which seeks alternatives to peat as a source of organic matter in artificial soils and sediments. 12.05.2025 12:52:21 EST 96ae34c3-97f8-47fe-8f46-d3add7d36bc7 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/standardisation-for-sediment-test-with-gammarids Chemicals that can accumulate in sediments must be tested for their toxicity to sediment organisms as part of the authorisation process. The Ecotox Centre is collaborating on the OECD standardisation of the sediment toxicity test with the amphipod Gammarus sp. which is endemic to European rivers. 28.03.2025 15:17:00 EST 6cabe1f7-1804-48ee-8bd0-49d16341c024 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicity-of-munitions-contaminated-soil In areas used for military purposes, the soil can be contaminated with munitions and explosives, resulting in contaminated sites with potential impacts on the environment. 20.03.2025 15:40:39 EST b2d6f5e1-ad6c-4d0b-9096-badac3babc3a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-in-srf-rundschau-on-the-ecotoxicity-of-a-controversial-pesticide The Ecotox Centre derives ecotoxicologically based limit values for plant protection products on behalf of the federal government, but only some of these values are subsequently anchored in the Water Protection Ordinance and are therefore legally binding. 06.02.2025 11:36:16 EST c1e4960c-1f81-49c4-b30c-fd78b79131f0 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-in-srf-kassensturz-on-oven-cleaners Marion Junghans supported SRF Kassensturz in the evaluation of oven sprays. 05.02.2025 08:59:16 EST f9720157-ff34-4228-a056-542a1d4826f4 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/successful-dissertation We congratulate Ali Kizgin on the successful defence of his dissertation. Over the past four years, Ali has been researching at the Ecotox Centre a key challenge in wastewater management - namely the early detection of pollution events using online biomonitoring. 31.01.2025 12:21:14 EST 0ef00663-4d8d-49f8-8170-a7ec6bbd7952 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/webinar-bioassays-for-wastewater-assessment-on-18-2-2025-14-30-16-00 A new series of webinars organised by the German Water Chemistry Society highlights the opportunities and possibilities of bioassays for assessing water quality. The Ecotox Centre is hosting the first webinar on the use of effect-based methods for wastewater testing. 20.12.2024 11:51:50 EST 5b088945-32e9-4ab2-a06a-1e52189a973f https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/bioindicators-and-soil-reference-values-for-plant-protection-products The Ecotox Centre is working on a comprehensive concept for monitoring pesticide residues in agricultural soils. As part of the project, we have developed a method for deriving ecotoxicological soil reference values - and have already applied it to two active substances - and have also compiled a toolbox with bioindicators for monitoring the effects of plant protection products. 04.12.2024 11:23:39 EST 833fa893-6618-486a-bded-004ddf7f773d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/sediment-quality-in-swiss-streams-application-of-the-new-assessment-strategy The Ecotox Centre has assessed the sediment quality in 18 streams in Switzerland on the basis of 20 prioritised pollutants. In each stream, at least one substance occurred in concentrations above the sediment quality criteria. This was the first time that the new assessment strategy was applied on a large scale. 20.11.2024 14:03:28 EST 06a1db78-f2da-4702-9854-089a92ed9801 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/how-can-the-positive-effects-of-the-wwtp-upgrade-be-measured Numerous biotests and biomarkers are used to assess the impact of the upgrade of the Falkenstein WWTP on the water quality of the Dünnern. The quality of communities and the occurrence of antibiotic resistance are also taken into account. The measurements prior to the upgrade show clear differences between the water quality upstream and downstream of the WWTP outflow. Significant improvements are expected as a result of the upgrade. 19.11.2024 11:19:05 EST 52ee6b5b-d26d-4489-a7de-4a8a01cfb157 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/training-course-for-tire-industry Last week, we welcomed around 20 representatives of leading tire manufacturers for a two-day training course on ecotoxicology. 18.11.2024 08:31:21 EST 1e54db0c-1894-4b65-9e2d-182dab06b5b2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/toxic-effects-of-tire-abrasion Tire particles contain substances that have potentially estrogenic, genotoxic and bacteriotoxic effects and can be released into the environment. Using an innovative method, the researchers were able to show which substances contribute to these effects. 15.11.2024 09:51:22 EST 69bdc3c0-5ced-4480-bc42-317ecc2dcc76 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/sun-creams-and-bathing-lakes In a new project, we are investigating the significance of UV filters from sun creams for the health of Swiss bathing lakes. We have already carried out bathing tests in test ponds to track the path of the substances from the skin into the water and sediment. 05.11.2024 16:31:10 EST 02a28f09-1046-47a7-91b2-8bf06c721047 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/climate-change-and-pesticides Ecotox Centre alumnus Micha Wehrli has just published his Master's thesis on the influence of heat stress on the risk assessment of pesticides, which shows that adjustments are needed here - congratulations Micha! 29.10.2024 15:18:21 EST 9c5c2f88-0d52-4b05-b3bb-057d749e4a69 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/info-sheet-on-washing-and-cleaning-agents Washing and cleaning agents are regularly used in every household and thus end up in waste water and ultimately in sewage treatment plants. But which of the substances they contain are dangerous for the environment? And how can we protect it as well as possible - despite the use of detergents and cleaning agents? A new info sheet gives more details. 15.10.2024 10:17:03 EST d6b9e47c-c597-4fbc-9b35-d7e1b84a0e85 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/international-workshop-on-sampling-frequency On 19-20 September 2024, the Ecotox Centre organised a workshop of the EU Working Group Chemicals on the topic of sampling frequency. The aim of this working group is to develop a guideline on the sampling frequency for priority substances whose entry into the environment can fluctuate greatly over time. 08.10.2024 11:59:48 EST 0d9e2f00-3194-43f3-a7a9-4bbce84afe94 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/pfas-in-sediments-near-a-fire-training-area-in-lausanne Both bioassays and risk assessment indicate a significant risk for the sediment organisms. 04.10.2024 11:26:50 EST ff45e11e-21f8-4e77-8cca-5032283f5e42 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/exciting-discussions-at-the-open-day Last Saturday, we presented our bioassays and bioindicators for analysing surface waters at the Eawag and Empa Open Day. 17.09.2024 12:16:07 EST c0867746-79cb-458d-9e83-873119711061 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/awards-for-elsa-schmidt-and-maylis-wangermez Both Ecotox Centre alumnae were honoured for their presentations at the 2024 meeting of the French Société d'Écotoxicologie Fondamentale et Appliquée SEFA. 27.08.2024 15:37:57 EST 6fb19f16-e6ea-42a2-bb4b-174e13d6fab3 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/conference-on-tire-emissions-on-4-6-december-2024-in-munich The Ecotox Centre invites you to an international conference on tire emissions, co-chaired by our director Benoit Ferrari. The conference will focus on research into tire emissions and the promotion of solutions to reduce the environmental impact of tires. 22.08.2024 15:17:32 EST 4dc31eb8-f026-46fd-b19e-716f1559a9ea https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-webinar-with-ellen-fritsche-17-september-2024-1600-1700 The Ecotox Centre invites you to a webinar with Prof. Ellen Fritsche (Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology) on Tuesday, 17 September 2024 at 4 pm on "One Health Concept – for the health of humans, animals and the environment". 16.08.2024 11:12:46 EST 1de756e6-90f6-4ed0-87bd-34eef8a2f208 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/update-of-eu-water-pollutant-list-takes-next-step The EU has proposed to tighten the standards on water pollutants by updating the list of priority pollutants and environmental quality standards (EQS) in surface water and groundwater. Last week, the European council agreed its negotiating mandate on the directive, which allows the presidency to start talks with the European Parliament on the final text. 28.06.2024 09:33:45 EST b48c7afb-c662-498c-87e5-b83b9d306065 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/stream-walk-with-the-ecotox-centre On Tuesday, a group of urban nature lovers delved into the layers of environmental pollution with the team from the Ecotox Centre in Lausanne. 27.06.2024 11:30:45 EST 7d2ea83e-1f22-41f2-aab7-a4d935d82032 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/uv-filters-in-lake-geschinen The Ecotox Centre has detected residues of sunscreen products in a popular bathing lake in Valais. The concentrations increased during bathing and were in the same order of magnitude as the provisional quality criteria for some substances. An in-depth investigation of the situation in Switzerland is planned. 23.05.2024 11:13:53 EST c0d8698a-8766-43db-a3b6-069637cd73b9 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/in-conversation-with-the-father-of-the-ecotox-centre Rik Eggen, former Deputy Director of Eawag, played a leading role in the founding of the Ecotox Centre in 2008 and was closely involved in its development until his retirement at the end of 2023, first as part of the Directorate and later as a representative of Eawag on the Host Institute Board. Here he looks back on his time with the Ecotox Centre. 22.05.2024 09:41:00 EST 72e57f70-2284-43e6-8a02-332c1bd8738c https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/how-to-consider-mixture-toxicity-new-approaches-for-authorization-and-monitoring Mixtures of chemicals in the environment pose major challenges for authorities, research and industry, as their risk is difficult to assess. The Ecotox Centre is helping to develop practical concepts in this area. 21.05.2024 13:15:33 EST 18e093e6-e0f9-4c35-b426-76dffcbc7fb2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/news-faces-at-the-ecotox-centre Luca Gelshorn, Brianne Holmes, Océane Lafargue and Louveline Lépeule have recently joined our team at the Ecotox Centre. 17.05.2024 15:24:04 EST 608b99ed-c912-45d4-80a2-45b3ad51c9a0 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/genetic-oligochaete-index-passes-another-milestone Oligochaete communities in the field can provide information on sediment quality, but not all animals can be identified under the microscope. Researchers at the Ecotox Centre have developed a genetic identification method that has just been included as an expert report in the modular stepwise procedure. 16.05.2024 14:54:55 EST 0ddecdb5-6f97-40e5-a9b2-b3aa31edcfce https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/revision-of-the-plant-protection-products-ordinance-ecotox-centre-says-yes-but The Ecotox Centre and Eawag welcome a total revision of the Plant Protection Products Ordinance (PPPO). However, the two institutes are calling for improvements on important points, such as the adoption of EU authorisations or the precautionary principle. The ordinance must ensure that other regulations such as the Water Protection or the Environmental Protection Act are not undermined. 03.04.2024 11:05:19 EST 890db449-eccb-49e3-8867-a61ef5ec5861 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-study-leads-to-postulate-in-zurich-cantonal-council A recent study by the Ecotox Centre has shown that nature reserves are also contaminated with pesticides. A postulate based on this study has now been submitted to the Zurich Cantonal Council. 02.04.2024 09:37:20 EST a8486e86-eb52-4c7d-b30e-f5c3a8e81d70 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/pfas-course-attracts-interest To provide comprehensive information about PFAS and their toxicity to the environment and humans, the Ecotox Centre has organised a course last week, which was attended by more than 80 participants. 18.03.2024 14:37:39 EST 8c199f1e-bfda-41c8-b919-2d226393aefa https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/info-sheet-on-sunscreens-in-surface-waters Sunscreens protect us against skin cancer, but can also be harmful to organisms in lakes. A new Ecotox Centre info sheet provides information about the various UV filters and gives recommendations for more eco-friendly sun protection. 16.02.2024 10:29:41 EST 46c3ed93-9fd8-470b-9055-c42c48dcbb90 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/quality-criteria-data-sheets-available-on-website The Ecotox Centre has derived environmental quality criteria for more than 100 substances. We have now made the associated data sheets available on our website so that the process leading to these values can be understood. 13.02.2024 09:33:28 EST 3d896cf5-0b2f-4ac5-bf4a-757c6b3ec636 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/threshold-values-for-anticoagulants-in-the-liver-of-birds-of-prey With these values, the Ecotox Centre wants to find out whether further measures are necessary to better protect birds of prey from rodent poisons. 25.01.2024 13:57:36 EST 1728e83b-1886-4125-a5b6-7f4eb0082cc6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/european-eqs-experts-meet-at-the-ecotox-centre The quality criteria experts from numerous European countries met at the Ecotox Centre for their first face-to-face meeting since the coronavirus pandemic. 30.11.2023 13:31:19 EST 4025904b-e6d2-454f-87be-6c8e1d19ca2c https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/biotopes-of-national-importance-are-also-contaminated-with-plant-protection-products The investigation of nine amphibian spawning grounds and three fens has shown that these biotopes of national importance are contaminated with numerous plant protection products. Insecticides from the pyrethroid group in particular exceeded the legal limits and chronic quality criteria, in some cases many fold. 23.11.2023 13:21:52 EST d9f3477e-000c-4a75-b0ca-4d4dde258226 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/database-with-quality-criteria-and-other-ecotoxicological-threshold-values The Ecotox Centre maintains a database of environmental quality criteria (EQC) and other ecotoxicological threshold values, which currently contains over 2000 entries on almost 600 substances. 22.11.2023 10:55:01 EST 1efb0a8f-3451-418b-9dd7-91e2cafa6635 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/assessment-of-the-water-quality-of-the-vuachere-in-lausanne Numerous micropollutants have been detected in the Vuachère, some of which originate from the discharge of untreated wastewater. These substances, such as the pharmaceutical ibuprofen, the herbicide diuron and the insecticides diazinon, fipronil, chlorpyriphos and fenpropathrin, pose ecotoxicological risks. 17.11.2023 10:22:15 EST e1c1e4d3-d4f6-427c-b255-ff7bda917127 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/bait-lamina-assay-helps-measuring-soil-fertility The bait lamina assay is suitable for investigating how plant protection products influence the feeding activity of soil organisms and the decomposition of organic matter. This decomposition is important for soil fertility. 10.11.2023 14:27:13 EST 40980583-6639-4d8f-8b63-c8f86f306273 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-webinar-on-the-new-eu-soil-directive-14-november-2023-1600-1700 The Ecotox Centre invites you to a webinar with Dr Annegret Biegler-Engler (Federal Environment Agency Germany) on Tuesday, 14 November 2023 at 4pm on "The EU Directive on Soil Monitoring and Resilience". 16.10.2023 13:28:54 EST fb79ea3e-30fd-4736-81aa-12d76add17c8 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/eva-lauber-and-fabian-balk-reinforce-risk-assessment We are looking forward to collaborate with our new colleagues. 08.09.2023 10:28:04 EST 503c29ce-eb98-4b3c-ada9-54d6ef4941a6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/dialogue-day-2023-in-solothurn At the Dialogue Day, around 60 participants learned more about current projects in applied ecotoxicology, exchanged ideas and expressed their needs. 06.09.2023 13:55:04 EST 97cc6f9e-ab5c-4e85-a640-fa7b0a209ce1 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-at-theaterspektakel On Thursday, 24 August at 5 p.m., Cornelia Kienle from the Oekotoxzentrum will enter into dialogue with artists to question the traditional hierarchies in forms of knowledge and thinking. 22.08.2023 12:41:47 EST a89b6dff-5ffe-4610-ab3b-8d0daf92102a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-oecd-guidelines-for-bioassay-with-chironomids The OECD has just published new guidelines for the assessment of sediments using chironomid larvae. The Ecotox Centre contributed to the guideline development. 25.07.2023 14:26:38 EST 0f4ef1c5-c293-4d68-bc37-30f3f43aad73 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/eu-proposes-new-law-for-soil-protection On 5 July 2023, the EU proposed a new law to improve soil protection in Europe and ensure that soils are used sustainably. However, the law falls short of original expectations. 20.07.2023 10:50:57 EST 2bf4b979-6414-49a3-b61c-acd378eadd21 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/workshop-on-risk-communication-on-pfas For a workshop on risk communication on PFAS, the Ecotox Centre has brought together experts from administration, associations, organisations and media to exchange views on this topic and to learn about possible pitfalls. The SCAHT was also involved in organising the event. 22.06.2023 16:55:51 EST 46f7298d-4fb2-43e5-bc1e-086fd95a173e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/roundtable-on-microplastics-at-the-french-embassy At the invitation of the French Embassy, the Ecotox Centre has co-organised a round table on microplastic pollution in the Alpine region. 13.06.2023 10:57:05 EST 12278ea6-04cd-4668-a2b1-7f649c53e5c9 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-dialogue-day-on-31-august-2023-in-solothurn The increasing number of chemicals in waters, sediments and soils makes it ever more important to assess their risk and understand their consequences for ecosystem quality. On our dialogue day, we inform you about our projects and offer discussion platforms on current topics. 31.05.2023 14:10:54 EST f2ea57dd-3df4-4a61-8db1-df57191247f1 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/setac-glb-meeting-in-muttenz-11-13-9-2023 The Ecotox Centre invites you to the annual meeting of the SETAC GLB, which will take place in Muttenz from 11-13 September 2023. 25.05.2023 10:13:53 EST 0758af7b-209d-4c6e-a494-9c1bb0a54604 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/biotests-and-biomarkers-to-assess-water-and-sediment-quality The Ecotox Centre used numerous bioassays and biomarkers to investigate the water quality at 17 sites. The ecotoxicological risks were determined on the basis of the bioassays and compared with the risks determined on the basis of chemical measurements. Based on the results, the Centre proposes suitable methods for routine use. 17.05.2023 16:15:34 EST 6d61721d-b8a1-4a9e-994e-46aeb0b5b4a7 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/assessment-of-water-quality-with-a-bioassay-battery A comprehensive study on the assessment of water quality in Switzerland shows that chemical measurements and bioassays complement each other. While risks to fish were detected more sensitively with bioassays, chemical analysis was the more sensitive method for risks to invertebrates from pyrethroid insecticides. The Ecotox Centre proposes a bioassay battery for routine testing. 17.05.2023 15:54:59 EST f42be8ae-3aac-4c9f-a85f-09255e8799cf https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/assessment-of-sediment-quality-with-a-bioassay-battery The Ecotox Centre proposes a battery of three bioassays to determine the quality of sediments and to complement chemical analysis. The test with ostracods reacts particularly sensitively and is suitable as a screening method for biological effects. 17.05.2023 15:39:08 EST 205dd49f-f1c6-465c-9a07-7999a97d8729 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/assessment-of-water-quality-with-biomarkers-in-brown-trout Biomarkers detect effects of pollutants on wildlife early and sensitively and complement chemical measurements. Further studies on the natural variability of the method are needed. 17.05.2023 15:22:09 EST 0e0645ba-4df7-44b0-a124-d11f8e4274d3 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-gets-to-the-bottom-of-the-fish-decline-in-the-suze The fish population and the number of small animals in the Suze have declined sharply. In order to estimate the pollution of the Suze, the Ecotox Centre examines water and sediment using various bioassays. 10.05.2023 11:25:59 EST 9ee6e923-95b8-457d-9c22-b4ca843a894f https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-webinar-with-thomas-backhaus-24-may-2023-1600-1700 The Ecotox Centre would like to invite you to a webinar with Prof. Thomas Backhaus (University of Göteborg, Sweden) on "Regulatory risk assessment of substance mixtures with the Mixture Assessment Factor" on 24 May 2023 at 16:00. 20.04.2023 10:58:36 EST ed92caff-64c5-454c-b1d0-6212cd0f2d53 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-report-on-determining-ecotoxicological-reference-values-for-soils Monitoring of PPP residues in soils is currently being developed within the framework of the Federal Action Plan on Plant Protection Products. The Ecotox Centre provides an overview of possible methods for determining risk-based reference values for PPPs in soils. 07.02.2023 14:43:12 EST 86ca7e06-4e8a-4ad0-92b2-9453d7797977 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/the-ecotox-centre-visits-the-canton-of-vaud With tailor-made courses, the Ecotox Centre passes on its expertise to cantons that request it - as was the case last week with the canton of Vaud. 24.01.2023 14:40:54 EST 80b2eb55-62dc-4054-9e4b-0d773fe93ca1 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/federal-council-adopts-revised-water-protection-ordinance On 16 December 2022, the Federal Council approved the revised Water Protection Ordinance defining the criteria for when the authorisation of a pesticide must be reviewed. In this way, drinking water and surface waters will be better protected from pesticides. 20.12.2022 16:10:45 EST 4e2ac7e4-7da2-4b92-8d4b-b59965b721c7 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/protecting-surface-waters-and-groundwater-from-new-pollutants The European Commission has proposed to increase the number of water pollutants that have to be strictly controlled in water bodies and groundwater. Numerous pesticides, including glyphosate, pyrethroids and neonicotinoids, some pharmaceuticals and hormones as well as PFAS are to be added to the list. 06.12.2022 13:22:12 EST ae6c06d3-1178-4cf2-a3f5-a3debb3a7ff2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/how-bioavailable-are-pollutants-in-tire-abrasion Tire abrasion contains numerous organic pollutants. A new study has investigated the bioavailability of these substances to aquatic organisms. 25.11.2022 10:07:36 EST fe8c0173-15b2-4840-a91d-d627e98a38af https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/rodenticides-in-swiss-wildlife Birds of prey and foxes in Switzerland are contaminated with highly toxic rodenticides: This is shown by first measurements of the Ecotox Centre. The active substances used to control the pests are difficult to degrade and accumulate in the food chain. 18.11.2022 12:12:17 EST 26f418e3-1353-4b1a-87de-c5909e3d4684 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/tire-wear-particles-toxic-for-fish Experiments with gill cells and intestinal cells of rainbow trout show that the concentrations of tire wear particles found in the environment are not acutely toxic to fish. However, the chronic toxicity should be further investigated, as should the mechanism of action of the toxic oxidation product 6PPD-quinone. 18.11.2022 10:14:17 EST 58c4006e-49d1-4ef1-a2a5-8a0fdb3a9d09 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/video-sunscreen-in-the-lake-a-problem The Ecotox Centre is currently investigating UV filters in Lake Geschiner: learn more in the video. 17.11.2022 15:45:15 EST 0d4ffe01-4a44-4fd9-904c-77b6cdb053fa https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/chironomids-measure-suspended-matter-quality-in-lake-geneva The combination of bioassays and biomarkers of chironomids is a good method to measure suspended sediment quality. An application in Lake Geneva has shown that the suspended matter quality changes throughout the year. The particles can affect the health of chironomid larvae. 16.11.2022 11:10:16 EST 214acc3e-4893-4f4b-9cd7-65b28d527b49 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-webinar-with-stephane-pesce-and-laure-mamy-13-december-2022-1600-1700 The Ecotox Centre would like to invite you to a webinar with Dr. Stéphane Pesce and Dr. Laure Mamy (INRAE) on "Effects of plant protection products on biodiversity and ecosystem functions and services" on 13 December 2022 at 16:00. 10.11.2022 15:36:09 EST 132874ea-f241-4d62-be9b-19ca3cc6a130 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-eu-guidelines-on-sediment-management Finally, guidelines have been published on how to manage sediments under the Water Framework Directive. The quantity and quality of sediment often has an important influence on the status of surface waters. The experts propose an approach for an integrated management of sediments that takes into account the needs of all users. 09.11.2022 14:35:10 EST e3c50b18-19f3-4827-ae0d-8f02408b1e33 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/bioindicators-and-mixture-toxicity-for-plant-protection-products Selected bioindicators are to monitor the influence of PPPs on ecological functions and soil fertility for the Plant Protection Products Action Plan. In addition, mixtures of substances are to be assessed. 31.10.2022 14:36:32 EST c3ad9229-a752-44fd-bf7b-84c421fc2894 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/women-in-regulatory-toxicology-article-collection-published There is a lack of women doing research in STEM subjects. To showcase role models, the contributions of 19 women are published collectively, who propose scientific methods and approaches to improve chemical management and assessment. 19.10.2022 12:17:34 EST f0c9f54c-0d66-409e-a40f-8899bf4259c5 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/danina-schmidt-wins-setac-glb-young-scientist-award Ecotox Centre alumna Danina Schmidt has been awarded the SETAC GLB Young Scientist Award for her master thesis on real-time monitoring of wastewater in wastewater treatment plants using biomonitors. Congratulations! 14.09.2022 11:23:23 EST 737d8710-30dd-4bb6-89d0-c4af28ba1e29 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/contribution-to-biodiversity-conference On 27 August, bioassay specialist Cornelia Kienle has given a presentation on micropollutants and their effects on aquatic organisms at a conference on biodiversity organised by ARGE Hochrhein. 01.09.2022 11:08:44 EST 5de209a0-8a7b-46e8-9ce2-c02cd8f7ec1d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-in-srf-kassensturz Marion Junghans has supported the programme Kassensturz of Swiss television SRF in the evaluation of ecological detergents. 24.08.2022 10:01:06 EST 335dc225-0780-4308-b188-9dc71911ee86 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/mas-toxicology-in-geneva-from-september-2022 This part-time course is addressed at recently graduated students who are already in employment. 05.07.2022 13:26:37 EST 08db301d-827d-439b-a99b-a707b9789431 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/forecast-reliability-within-the-authorisation-of-plant-protection-products In a new project, the Ecotox Centre is investigating the need for action in the authorisation procedure for plant protection products and their monitoring. 01.07.2022 10:31:35 EST eb89acb3-8d54-4512-a4b9-e55278be0667 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-laboratory-manager-in-lausanne On 1 May 2022, Emmanuelle Rohrbach took over the management of the Ecotox Centre Laboratory in Lausanne. Welcome, Emmanuelle! 30.06.2022 10:53:36 EST 6e1ca3ae-5120-47e0-990a-d3d74d58b77e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-at-eawags-info-day-15-september-2022 This year's Info Day on the topic of "Dynamics of Water" focuses on the monitoring of surface waters. Benoît Ferrari will present the newly developed concept for sediment quality assessment. 24.06.2022 09:23:15 EST a57c41ac-5e38-4cb6-8b7e-090b9cbd26ad https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/updated-version-of-sediment-report The expert report on a strategy for assessing sediment quality in Switzerland has been updated. 14.06.2022 11:03:16 EST 0ba2f46c-fe4f-42be-b63c-26cb2ee231a6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/additional-quality-criteria-available The Ecotox Centre has derived a large number of quality criteria and published them on its website. It now provides quality criteria for additional substances that have either been determined by other organisations or for which no complete data research has been carried out. 03.06.2022 15:46:54 EST fa5c3923-6eec-469d-96ed-7bb8731cc98f https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/pollutant-monitoring-in-swiss-sediments The Ecotox Centre has developed a strategy for assessing sediment quality. In the strategy the measured concentrations of individual substances of concern are compared with newly developed sediment quality criteria. The method has been applied to Swiss sediments giving an initial idea of their current state. 25.05.2022 10:19:33 EST 0f90f4bf-487a-4f47-867d-2f219836ce3d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/sediment-quality-criteria-new-on-website Sediment quality criteria (SQC) can be used for sediment quality assessment by comparing environmental concentrations of the target substances with the corresponding quality criteria. The Ecotox Centre has developed SQC for 20 prioritised substances or substance classes. 24.05.2022 14:06:58 EST f33bea46-4f7d-4d14-9eeb-1763e5378dc0 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-faces-at-the-ecotox-centre-2 We welcome our new colleagues Sibylle Maletz und Gianna Ferrari. 23.05.2022 09:22:10 EST d2c26a01-c44f-48ca-ae55-92f1ce01bd83 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/sensitive-bioassays-on-hptlc-plates The Ecotox Centre has advanced an innovative method to sensitively determine the toxicity of unknown mixtures and unmask the responsible substances. This is not only interesting for food safety, but also for environmental analysis. 19.05.2022 09:19:41 EST c6dedfb6-83ec-4640-91f9-9f5dcf9f8948 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-large-scale-project-on-the-risk-assessment-of-chemicals Together with partners from Switzerland and the EU, the Ecotox Centre compares the prospective and retrospective risk assessment of pesticides and further develops assessment approaches and concepts. Further activities concern the assessment of substance mixtures and the monitoring of endocrine disruptors and perfluorinated chemicals in the environment. 13.05.2022 14:31:16 EST 52d666d6-77c3-48fb-863e-bc5bc5688e3f https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/elevated-ecotoxicological-risks-through-pyrethroid-and-organophosphate-insecticides Pyrethroid and organophosphate insecticides were detected in small streams at all 17 sampling sites that were investigated during the 2019 NAWA monitoring campaign. Although the measured concentrations were mostly low, they pose a significant risk to aquatic organisms. 14.04.2022 16:19:01 EST 6aaa6522-40f5-44c7-83a0-ebad1eaed0c7 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/biomarkers-in-chironomids-for-the-detection-of-sediment-quality By measuring gene expression, effects can be detected that do not directly lead to death , but can trigger an effect-specific stress response and thus cause long-term damage to the organism. 06.04.2022 08:32:56 EST a35bf9e8-151a-4b07-a9ff-24fbea9b3e96 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/video-sampling-and-assessment-of-sediment-quality Sediments play an important role in surface water protection. Watch a video to see how a sediment sample is taken and processed. 16.02.2022 13:58:01 EST 161692a7-f0b8-45b8-8c97-9c980208be9a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-webinar-with-dr-jos-brils-january-18-1600-1700 The Ecotox Centre would like to invite you to a webinar with Dr Jos Brils (Deltares, NL) on "Sediment management from a WFD perspective". 14.01.2022 11:01:03 EST 233cdef0-818e-4591-b8a6-d9394b38d211 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/expert-report-strategy-for-assessing-sediment-quality-in-switzerland Sediments play a crucial role for surface water quality. However, until now there has been no uniform method for the cantons to monitor sediment quality. On behalf of the Federal Office for the Environment, experts from the Ecotox Centre have drawn up a proposal on how sediments in Switzerland should be sampled, processed and assessed. 17.12.2021 12:33:24 EST add6b339-759a-4874-8bfd-2333ee9e0d21 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/tire-wear-as-a-source-of-pollutants Although large quantities of tire wear are released into the environment, we still know little about the toxicity of those small particles. The particles contain not only rubber, but also numerous metals and organic substances. Researchers from the Ecotox Centre, EPFL and Eawag are currently investigating whether these substances are bioavailable and what toxic effects they may have. 23.11.2021 13:38:26 EST 79eeb73a-4726-423c-bbbd-94b0d0e4b313 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-proposals-for-quality-standards Quality standards are proposed for the first time for the pesticides fenpropimorph, fipronil and permethrin and the drug erythromycin. 19.11.2021 14:31:27 EST df82b6fb-01f8-4012-836b-79cd6919e4c2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/project-on-rodent-poisons Anticoagulants are highly toxic chemical substances that are used to control harmful rodents such as mice and rats. In a new project the Ecotox Centre aims to assess the environmental contamination with anticoagulants in Switzerland. 16.11.2021 15:03:55 EST 2db814d6-0d48-4909-a81e-022b55134d66 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/how-to-determine-ecotoxicological-reference-values-for-soils The risks associated with plant protection products in Switzerland are to be reduced by half in the next decade. An important tool for this is the determination of effect-based screening values for plant protection products in soils. But which methods are available for this purpose? What points need to be taken into account? The Ecotox Center takes stock of the situation. 11.11.2021 15:53:22 EST 44609adb-fc7c-4713-a206-b202bb4eaf7b https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/women-in-regulatory-toxicology A special volume focuses on gender equality in the field of regulatory toxicology. 05.11.2021 10:57:25 EST 2829a076-33df-4784-ac69-3dec57c08043 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-as-partner-in-eu-working-groups The Ecotox Centre uses its expert knowledge for water protection in Europe by participating in various important EU working groups. For example, it supports Switzerland's technical cooperation with the EU in the field of ecotoxicology. 02.11.2021 13:43:38 EST b0a20e9b-2af9-43b4-aaff-944de5735f65 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/video-on-world-standards-day The Ecotox Centre participates in the standardisation work of the Swiss Association for Standardisation. In this way, it contributes to the sustainable development goals of the United Nations. 21.10.2021 12:32:13 EST 93c73496-9bd0-4d5f-9824-b12a8a555410 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/inge-werner-farewell-from-the-ecotox-centre Inge Werner led the Ecotox Centre for nine years, and in that time established and cemented its success. She resigned from the leadership role in 2019 as part of her staged road to retirement. At the end of August she will be retiring fully and returning to her home of choice in California. She talks here about her passion for ecotoxicology as well as the difficult rules in Swiss laundry rooms! 30.08.2021 16:04:03 EST ab9fe3e3-9d2a-4686-8cee-a9e6a581a764 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-now-in-flux On 12 July, the Ecotox Centre in Dübendorf has moved to the newly constructed FLUX building, where it can now be found on the E floor. 22.07.2021 10:21:27 EST dc04bf22-7fe8-4583-a166-878644fea025 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-soil-ecotoxicologist-at-the-ecotox-centre In June, Mathieu Renaud has started as new scientist in soil ecotoxicology at the Ecotox Centre in Lausanne. 15.07.2021 11:00:08 EST 50008253-513d-4746-bcc2-0cb47136c1b5 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/benoit-ferrari-new-director-at-the-ecotox-centre-with-etienne-vermeirssen-as-deputy-director On July 1, Benoit Ferrari will permanently take over as director of the Ecotox Centre, which he has already led ad interim for the past two years. He will be supported by Etienne Vermeirssen, group leader of Aquatic Ecotoxicology, as deputy director. 30.06.2021 12:31:56 EST dbf706a1-0660-4e72-90fb-805c79bbbc8d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/role-of-estrogens-from-agriculture Agriculture can also contribute to the presence of estrogens in the environment through their discharge by farm animals. These discharges seem to be less of a problem than feared. 25.05.2021 10:53:38 EST 40da4d52-af5a-46b9-b478-40cd5e5b63f8 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/online-biomonitoring-of-treated-wastewater Treated wastewater can be continuously monitored using online monitoring with organisms. This method enables wastewater treatment plant operators and discharging industrial plants to react quickly to acute contamination. 19.05.2021 14:13:05 EST 976b7a34-dc50-4d0a-ba2a-2d8eafb1b7f1 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/assessment-of-the-environmental-impact-of-building-products A new assessment method has been developed to encourage sustainable building and water protection at the source. 18.05.2021 12:51:06 EST 1822f6c7-f609-4222-bef6-8373094fe5c7 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/microplastics-in-the-environment Plastic particles are everywhere - in water, in soil and also in food. But too little is known about the effects of the particles on ecosystems and humans. Therefore, the risk assessment of the substances remains difficult. The Ecotox Center informed about the current state of knowledge in an online course in January. 12.05.2021 12:09:08 EST 076b546c-cc4d-4956-8f50-736096933923 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/chironomids-measure-suspended-matter-quality The Ecotox Centre is working on a system to assess environmental quality based on biomarkers in chironomids. 10.05.2021 13:04:46 EST 594b5d16-6b37-4bb4-bc21-be8defb25d29 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/pfas-in-swiss-sediments Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl compounds (PFAS) are very stable in the environment and are therefore detected almost everywhere. A new study investigates the occurrence of PFAS in Swiss sediments. 29.04.2021 11:53:14 EST 65de01a3-5685-460d-b7f1-c3a624e58e30 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-projects-to-assess-water-quality The Ecotox Centre has launched several new projects to improve the assessment of water quality. 28.04.2021 15:03:36 EST 83a538fa-b785-4f16-90e1-6a6c8e8f7e80 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/early-warning-systems-with-potential-video Online biomonitoring systems offer the possibility of real-time monitoring of wastewater with organisms and enable wastewater treatment plants to react immediately to acute pollution. 22.03.2021 08:24:11 EST 382b3362-3f9d-4e7f-8db4-eae5cc0449d1 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/microplastics-in-the-environment-public-panel-discussion-26121-at-1900-in-german All are invited. 14.01.2021 15:49:42 EST 4e7a5267-79d3-4793-b41b-c5629f69ea49 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/strategy-for-assessing-sediment-quality-in-switzerland After 6 years, the assessment concept for sediment quality in Switzerland is in the home straight. In addition to a harmonised method for sampling and sample preparation, a list of substances for regular sediment monitoring has been developed, as well as sediment quality criteria and an evaluation system. 24.11.2020 11:54:04 EST 9bc9ba8b-5e95-4764-8edc-302cf0c6f0e3 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/less-pesticides-for-streams-in-thurgau In the canton of Thurgau, experts from the offices are working with farmers to reduce the pollution of watercourses with pesticides. Bioassays with water and sediment samples show that the ecotoxicological status of streams is currently significantly impaired. 20.11.2020 15:14:49 EST 7e11dfce-4849-4de4-af8a-20b2c62f9e63 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/biomonitoring-for-plant-production-products-in-switzerland A monitoring concept for residues in Swiss agricultural soils is currently being developed as part of the action plan for the reduction of risks and sustainable use of plant protection products. The most important steps are the development of ecotoxicological guidance values for soils and the selection of suitable biological indicators. 17.11.2020 11:03:29 EST 4cc06123-03ea-4d13-a611-79bdf3f7b188 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/genetic-barcodes-for-sediment-assessment The sediment quality in lakes and rivers can be assessed by studying the composition of oligochaete communities present in situ. The use of high-throughput sequencing allows the reliable identification of oligochaetes and makes this bioindication method accessible. 13.11.2020 11:34:01 EST 97c58a98-af94-43c2-a48f-190b624fa041 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/all-results-of-the-synaqua-project-are-now-available-online In the Interreg project SYNAQUA researchers from Switzerland and France have established genetic methods for the biomonitoring of surface waters. All results of the project are now available online. 13.11.2020 13:24:06 EST 8b7a2c7b-afc7-4e68-9a4f-25635966a576 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicological-effects-of-polyacrylamides-and-polyacrylates-in-agriculture Polyacrylamides and polyacrylates can be used as soil conditioners. But since most chemical regulations do not apply to polymers, little is known about their ecotoxicological effects. A report summarises the current state of knowledge. 27.10.2020 14:13:39 EST a9291aa2-d9fd-4c7b-b709-3b942917b89f https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-faces-at-the-ecotox-centre-1 We welcome our new colleagues Alena Tierbach and Carolin Riegraf. 02.09.2020 17:35:01 EST 1730b3d3-4d45-406a-8cf4-e7a4115f3a68 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/info-sheet-on-pfas-in-the-environment Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) are very stable and accumulate worldwide in the environment and in organisms. A new info sheet gives information on their occurrence, their toxicity and the regulatory context. 09.07.2020 16:15:46 EST 474b7d70-0993-4c33-89d7-39009f634bb1 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicity-of-tire-wear-particles Every year, several thousand tonnes of tire wear particles, consisting of a complex mixture of rubber particles and road material, are released into the environment and are contaminated with numerous pollutants. In a new project, the Ecotox Centre is working to improve our understanding of the bioavailability and toxicity of tire wear particles. 18.05.2020 08:08:36 EST 16208dd5-b59a-42df-9438-22cf25826218 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/detection-of-pollutants-in-food-packaging Food packaging contains complex mixtures of chemicals. A new method can sensitively measure their toxicity and help to find out which substances are responsible for the toxicity. 18.05.2020 09:51:45 EST 79100625-7346-4755-b7e2-686fa7b1312e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/tktd-modelling-for-dummies A milestone has been reached by processing one of the TKTD models for the use of practitioners without modelling experience. With the GUTs model, the mortality can be predicted for a given concentration curve of a chemical. 15.05.2020 10:57:04 EST bcc2043f-78ed-479c-811c-a614613a9aa7 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/invertebrate-and-microbial-communities-in-contaminated-river-sediments The river sediments of Ardières and Tillet are both polluted with complex substance mixtures. The effect of the contamination with PCB on the oligochaete communities was clearly visible. The effect of the contamination on microbial communities was harder to assess because microbes are influenced by a multitude of environmental factors. 14.05.2020 14:19:20 EST 837f4636-f1c3-4f12-be23-f9f40f8ff9f8 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/guest-from-japan Dr. Kazushi Noro from the Research Institute of Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries in Osaka, Japan, spent five weeks at the Ecotox centre in February and March 2020. 14.05.2020 14:38:02 EST b1e81c05-c951-4701-8b68-f9ba54549997 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/assessment-of-sediment-quality-in-artificial-canals-in-valais Ecotoxicological bioassays and the assessment of invertebrate benthic communities complement physico-chemical analyses when assessing sediment quality. The sediment quality in three artificial channels in the Valais was severely affected. 11.05.2020 12:04:17 EST 6673ad6f-36e6-4583-bfa3-c00c9ec44ccd https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/fungicidal-azoles-cause-concern In Switzerland, these substances are detected in most samples from water, sediment, soil and organisms. However, a lack of toxicity data for many azoles makes it difficult to assess the risk they pose. 08.05.2020 14:15:04 EST d40d8801-b76b-42f6-8d75-a96bee7651c9 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/effect-based-limits-come-into-force With the amendment to the Water Protection Ordinance of 1 April 2020, an important goal was achieved: For 19 pesticides and three pharmaceuticals, the quality criteria developed by the Ecotox Centre now apply as limit values for surface waters. 23.04.2020 14:52:41 EST 1503c258-1173-494f-8f7e-0a41aa6c0cbe https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/covid-19-information Due to the current situation regarding the coronavirus / COVID-19, all Ecotox Centre offices and labs are closed starting 17 March 2020. Employees work from home and can be contacted via e-mail. 17.03.2020 12:16:26 EST 3f4e8244-290f-4a72-aa94-f74176cd9667 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicology-will-continue-to-gain-in-importance-in-conversation-with-inge-werner The longtime former head of the Ecotox Centre, Inge Werner, handed over management to Benoit Ferrari on 1 September. Here she reflects on the past and future of practical ecotoxicology in Switzerland. 22.11.2019 13:30:54 EST eba94b9d-9008-46a9-ac4b-324d28e66ce3 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/few-estrogens-in-europes-rivers Studies with biotests have shown it: Most European watercourses do not contain estrogenic substances in critical concentrations. Switzerland has also participated in the huge monitoring project initiated by the Ecotox Centre. All Swiss samples were harmless. 22.11.2019 13:59:05 EST 2aecb0ac-5c3e-446e-8f3d-59cdf0ad39be https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicological-effects-of-pesticides-in-stream-sediments Pesticides in sediments cause adverse effects on benthic organisms. This was shown by a monitoring study conducted by the Ecotox Centre and Eawag on five streams in agricultural areas. Crustaceans were particularly affected. Concentrations of several insecticides, including chlorpyrifos and the pyrethroid cypermethrin, exceeded effect thresholds, indicating impaired sediment quality. 21.11.2019 13:09:19 EST 7f9378f6-2c81-4e48-99be-b0fd477b5a38 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/video-tutorial-on-the-l-yes A video tutorial shows the preparation and execution of the yeast estrogen screen with lyticase for the detection of estrogenic substances. 19.11.2019 14:28:30 EST d9653c0f-7565-452b-8dc9-36191ba93193 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/how-do-plant-production-products-affect-swiss-fish Pesticides detected in Swiss streams pose a risk to the fish living there. Harmful effects on the fish, particularly through sublethal and indirect effects, are possible in the measured concentrations. 04.11.2019 16:28:32 EST ff4927de-3aaa-4891-bd98-9b28dfb9eab8 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/homing-in-on-pyrethroids The measurement of trace concentrations of pyrethroid and organophosphate insecticides – now possible thanks to a newly developed analytical method – shows that these compounds can pose a greater threat to aquatic organisms than all other pesticides. 04.11.2019 17:21:49 EST 7ba80380-cc66-44aa-96cc-7b9da75bf02b https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-at-epfl-anniversary At the Ecotox Centre's stand visitors learned how springtails and other creepy crawlies measure environmental pollutants. 17.09.2019 15:03:15 EST 40aefda5-84af-464b-9af6-0d2053543f6c https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/benoit-ferrari-takes-over-as-interim-director-of-the-ecotox-centre On 1 September 2019, Benoît Ferrari will take over as interim director of the Ecotox Centre. Benoît Ferrari is an expert on the ecotoxicity of sediments and has been group leader for sediment and soil ecotoxicology at the Ecotox Centre in Lausanne since 2013. The current director, Inge Werner, will remain with the Ecotox Centre on a part-time basis until 2021. 30.08.2019 15:13:32 EST f0ee8ff0-1d84-49e3-99ba-6de22b734407 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/how-toxic-are-cigarette-butts At least one in three cigarettes worldwide is discarded onto the ground after smoking – a new info sheet informs about their ingredients, environmental behaviour and toxicity. 30.08.2019 15:15:14 EST 88dff2ca-fe3f-4152-8650-6449fa0fe8f5 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/successful-edna-day More than 80 participants from France and Switzerland attended the eDNA Day in Geneva on 3 June and learned more about the potential of molecular methods to revolutionise the use of biomarkers. 27.06.2019 12:20:48 EST 4aff9782-ecd0-43c7-a29f-ebea333b8dcb https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/oligochaetes-show-influence-of-wwtp-effluent-on-sediments The biological quality of two Swiss river sediments downstream of wastewater treatment plants is significantly worse than upstream. The Ecotox Centre scientists have been able to show this using oligochaetes . 17.05.2019 08:38:10 EST ad916833-cae0-467a-a69e-e49a29a0d7c2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/bioassays-and-standardisation-for-the-assessment-of-surface-waters A rough evaluation concept is available for the assessment of wastewater-polluted surface waters in Switzerland with the help of bioassays. Progress has also been made in standardising the individual work steps. 14.05.2019 15:42:32 EST 8788ceb3-ba8b-4556-ae47-c84e61a105c7 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/do-eqs-protect-against-the-spread-of-antibiotic-resistance The environmental pollution with antibiotics can lead to more resistance against these substances. However, the generation of antibiotic resistance is not taken into account when deriving environmental quality criteria (EQS). For eight substances, the Ecotox Centre has investigated whether the available EQS also protect against the development of antibiotic resistance in surface waters. 10.05.2019 13:45:31 EST 16e18145-b345-44c5-9b30-626cc2f6a539 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-faces-at-the-ecotox-centre We welcome our new colleagues Anne-Sophie Voisin and Alexandra Kroll! 25.04.2019 12:25:16 EST be6cf68d-9be8-483f-8236-1ea11c98ad27 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/high-risks-due-to-pesticide-mixtures The use of organic pesticides leads to high ecotoxicological risks for plants, invertebrates and vertebrates - this has been confirmed by a comprehensive study in five creeks. The results from biotests and bioindicators confirm the results from chemical analysis. 02.04.2019 15:34:07 EST 935a797f-ba5e-4272-9f18-75f3eed1c7c2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/edna-day-on-june-3-2019-in-geneva Quickly and cost-effectively determine all species in a water or sediment sample and thus assess environmental quality: such is the promise of studies with environmental DNA (eDNA). 07.03.2019 16:12:56 EST 286268fb-8bd7-4f47-bfdb-f41008780208 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/info-sheet-on-mercury Mercury is a highly toxic heavy metal that naturally occurs in the environment, but also is released by humans. A new info sheet provides information on the presence of mercury, its toxicity and the legal situation. 15.01.2019 13:45:41 EST 8a1e1253-fbbe-4ab5-8bf0-4346525df107 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/genetic-monitoring-of-surface-waters-new-video In the Interreg project SYNAQUA project partners from Switzerland and France seek to establish genetic methods for the biomonitoring of surface waters. 18.12.2018 15:27:31 EST ecb9b569-917d-4ad1-83c1-7c3b48387dd7 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/video-tutorial-on-the-combined-algae-assay A video tutorial shows the preparation and execution of the combined algae assay for the detection of herbicides. 11.12.2018 15:53:53 EST 803b7a52-3b27-4837-89cf-04bcb0804fac https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/how-to-detect-endocrine-disruptors-in-a-cantonal-lab AWEL's Water Protection Laboratory is currently setting up a system to control the elimination of micropollutants in Zurich's wastewater treatment plants (WWTP). To this end, the authorities want to obtain an overview of the occurrence of estrogenic compounds . 30.10.2018 14:33:33 EST 0e41732a-c863-4cd3-a07d-3fa412066808 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/soil-ecotoxicology-in-switzerland-where-are-we-and-where-do-we-want-to-go Ecotoxicological tests help to assess soil quality. At a workshop in June, the Ecotoxic Centre brought together important partners to inform about the state of knowledge and to discuss the future of soil ecotoxicology in Switzerland. 26.10.2018 16:12:38 EST 69d60f34-5f03-48d9-9f57-21ece0bb503a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/environmental-monitoring-with-bioassays Bioassays as methods for the assessment of water and sediment quality are gaining more and more acceptance. In June 2018, more than 90 experts from public authorities, the private sector and science accepted the invitation of the Ecotox Centre to a two-day symposium on this topic. 26.10.2018 10:53:56 EST 0d4d4cbc-e81b-4537-a13c-93dc15324d54 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/10-years-committed-to-ecotoxicology The Ecotox Centre has helped to establish ecotoxicological methods to assess environmental quality in Switzerland. The Centre was also involved in the extension of wastewater treatment plants to remove micropollutants and the introduction of effect-based threshold values for pollutants in surface waters. 25.10.2018 16:39:40 EST e3e710b3-7548-43df-a349-aeddb80c11b0 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/10-years-ecotox-centre Yesterday, the Ecotox Centre Eawag-EPFL celebrated its tenth anniversary in the City Hall of Berne. Around 80 guests from politics, administration, science, and practice toasted the successful establishment of the Centre and the milestones achieved over the past 10 years. 24.10.2018 11:22:25 EST 23f9485d-b9f3-4483-b836-64f2edbca9e1 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/two-new-faces-at-the-ecotox-centre In September 2018 we have welcomed two new collaborators at the Ecotoxic Centre: Ali Kizgin and Marcelo Gryczak. 23.10.2018 10:55:42 EST f19d5394-3a91-431b-a4a1-5d00d7f3a3ef https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/sediment-monitoring-in-nawa-spez-2018 The Ecotox Centre investigates at 18 field sites how the analysis of pollutants is influenced by the particle size fraction and how this information can be integrated into risk assessment. In addition, the centre examines the sediment samples with various bioassays to measure their ecotoxicity. 22.10.2018 10:29:56 EST 359a5f72-89bc-4dc5-92b9-89fcb94ad303 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/monitoring-concept-for-plant-protection-products-in-soils As part of the new federal action plan for risk reduction and the sustainable use of plant protection products (PPP), the environmental risks posed by PPP are to be halved by 2027. In order to achieve this goal for Swiss soils, a monitoring concept for PPP residues needs to be developed. 19.10.2018 15:41:41 EST 69d3feb3-3339-4d00-96ab-4d6512779ab3 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/risk-assessment-of-fungi-is-important Freshwater fungi play an important role in freshwater ecosystems and should be considered in the risk assessment of fungicides. 28.09.2018 13:31:42 EST 56198402-0937-4f42-8dc8-38ade181b785 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/miriam-langer-new-professor-at-the-school-of-life-sciences-fhnw On September 1, Ecotox Centre employee Miriam Langer will start as Professor of Applied Ecotoxicology at the University of Applied Sciences FHNW’s new Muttenz Campus. 31.08.2018 10:40:40 EST fb388bda-57d5-4be2-8b9c-273bba067973 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-overview-report-on-endocrine-disruptors The Ecotox Centre has contributed to a report on endocrine disruptors by the International Panel on Chemical Pollution (IPCP). 30.07.2018 10:23:20 EST 0892e905-aa97-49c8-9071-176a6d17e45d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/scientists-identify-most-pressing-issues-posed-by-chemicals-in-the-environment Scientists have identified 22 key research questions surrounding the risks associated with chemicals in the environment across Europe. 20.07.2018 14:04:11 EST c1979b5e-5738-43a3-bb6e-81b1707d139c https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/successful-symposium-on-bioassays Last week, more than 90 experts from public authorities, the private sector and science accepted the Ecotox Centre’s invitation. 12.06.2018 16:25:57 EST 3f48f0b3-932e-422d-bc54-c247e18ce2d1 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/combining-thin-layer-chromatography-and-bioassays The combination of chemical analysis and bioassays makes it possible to identify toxic substances in complex mixtures. The use of thin-layer chromatography accelerates the analysis and allows for a higher sample throughput. 24.05.2018 15:11:32 EST 7ae3e4da-ddf6-41b8-8da3-48ca45bfa767 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/different-approaches-to-assess-water-quality-with-bioassays For the regulatory assessment of water quality with bioassays, uniform approaches are necessary. These may only use the EQS of the reference substance or include as many EQS of a substance class as possible. 24.05.2018 15:40:15 EST 7e8bb18b-4eff-4f51-9ea9-7aae6c578850 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/chironomids-as-pcb-finders Chironomid larvae were used to monitor the remediation of a site contaminated with PCB, both in the field under field conditions and in the laboratory under controlled conditions. Water quality improved significantly, but part of the contamination remained. 22.05.2018 11:48:33 EST 8013ea31-322a-49fc-a93e-13fe9c20f16f https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/soil-organisms-like-it-hot The bait lamina test is a useful method to determine the soil quality in the field. The Ecotox Centre has examined the influence of soil moisture on the test results in more detail: This facilitates the interpretation of the method and brings the test one step closer to routine application. 22.05.2018 13:01:11 EST 3b122a0f-f717-40e4-bee2-544a325e9234 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/staff-at-the-ecotox-centre We welcome two new employees, Janine Wong and Alan Bergmann. Welcome to the Ecotox Centre! And we wish Sophie Campiche every success in her new activities. 18.05.2018 10:39:52 EST c83bd507-a23b-4e26-b57a-3c251d7f9b35 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/trout-measure-the-influence-of-pollutants Chemicals in surface waters have effects on water organisms. The activation of biomarker genes in trout is a good measure of such effects under field conditions and can be used to assess water quality. 18.05.2018 12:35:12 EST f996a4a3-794b-4730-9e77-d979a325bc5d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/bioassays-for-the-assessment-of-water-quality Within the Modular Stepwise Procedure a concept has been developed for the overall assessment of rivers that are contaminated with waste water using ecotoxicological bioassays. The concept represents a first step towards an integrative assessment of water quality. 05.04.2018 13:30:11 EST f41eba64-e91e-443d-a321-4f6ac974835d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicology-for-zhaw-students In March 2018, the Ecotox Centre has given its annual introduction to ecotoxicology to prospective biotechnologists. 29.03.2018 14:31:42 EST 6d80bdb2-da69-48d8-b1a0-0eb6cc61a0a6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/symposium-environmental-monitoring-with-bioassays-on-56-june-2018 The use of bioassays to assess water quality has many advantages and the acceptance of bioassays has increased in recent years. On the occasion of its 10th anniversary, the Ecotox Centre organises a symposium on the topic. 31.01.2018 16:43:52 EST eca72134-0715-468d-9bcf-09993520ee2b https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/eawag-supports-introduction-of-effect-based-environmental-quality-criteria At the end of November, the Federal Council has sent the new risk-based required limits for biocides, plant protection products and other micro-pollutants within the Water Protection Ordinance in consultation. A new Eawag fact sheet shows why these values are meaningful and necessary. 22.12.2017 14:00:35 EST 3507cc41-ed6f-4ee6-8ed4-8db07ec5fd35 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/estrogens-in-surface-waters-screening-and-risk-assessment-for-europe In the framework of an international project, European water samples were analysed for estrogens using various biological and chemical methods. Bioassays based on cell cultures were shown to be well suited to detect the substances that are to be monitored across Europe. 24.11.2017 16:31:18 EST 13b90d13-6dcd-49e3-9287-bbabc18eed5c https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/immunotoxicity-an-underestimated-ecotoxicological-effect-of-chemicals Numerous substances influence the ability of wild animals to cope with pathogens. However, there are no established bioassays in ecotoxicology to screen environmental samples and chemicals for immunotoxic effects. The Ecotox Centre would like to improve this situation. 24.11.2017 16:02:47 EST adc74d9a-0f36-41b5-9edc-f5ff34a36d02 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/info-sheet-on-pyrethroides Pyrethroids are among the most frequently used pesticides in the world. For this reason, the Ecotox Centre has published a new info sheet on the emissions, mechanism of action, toxicity and risk of the substances. 24.11.2017 15:12:02 EST fc5bd254-4a3e-4b97-be76-9e7df402b413 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/how-long-to-collect-water-samples If the measured concentration of a substance in surface waters exceeds its quality criterion, the water quality is assessed as poor. But over which time period should the water sample be collected and the concentration be averaged? 23.11.2017 15:42:32 EST 4c525419-ef92-4d8c-9811-e214c4097d02 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/progress-in-the-assessment-of-sediment-quality Together with eight cantons, the Ecotox Centre has conducted extensive field testing to investigate the comparability of different methods for sampling and sample preparation of sediments. 21.11.2017 15:18:19 EST 409b1786-0216-4203-9c8d-f0934cef617a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/a-focus-on-communities-in-freshwater-sediments In April 2017, the first French-Swiss conference on communities in freshwater sediments was held in Villié-Morgon (F). A new publication summarizes the findings from the workshop. 31.10.2017 10:28:01 EST f3c47fae-7ffa-4c72-b778-baac7a835a3e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/video-tutorials-on-springtail-and-earthworm-assays New video tutorials show the preparation and execution of the reproduction test with springtails and the avoidance test with earthworms. 26.09.2017 13:03:29 EST 0931f16b-8b36-4e6f-9724-675a1f5b5efe https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecosystem-stress-caused-by-micropollutants Micropollutants enter rivers and streams in effluents discharged from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). As well as having adverse impacts on individual species, these substances appear to alter aquatic ecosystem functions, such as litter decomposition. 01.06.2017 14:17:01 EST 0fe91a9c-1276-4fd2-a8b7-228da7d3ea83 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicological-risks-in-small-streams-are-high A comprehensive monitoring study in small Swiss streams shows that these are often heavily contaminated with plant protection products. The ecotoxicological risk due to the pollutant mixtures was high at four of the five examined sites and the water quality therefore considered to be bad. Due to the long-term exposure, there were no time for recovery for the water organisms. 30.05.2017 14:54:55 EST 53b28b47-0734-4021-a047-92380e9a904a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/priorisation-of-pollutants-for-sediment-monitoring-in-switzerland The Ecotox Centre has prioritised organic pollutants for sediment monitoring. The resulting list provides a basis for the sediment module of the Modular Stepwise Procedure. 30.05.2017 14:02:29 EST 5b080cde-5914-441e-86e9-dc185b26da01 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/do-stormwater-overflows-in-lake-geneva-contribute-to-sediment-pollution Trough the discharge of untreated rainwater, surface waters can be contaminated with heavy metals and organic pollutants. A combination of chemical and biological studies has shown that these substances in Lake Geneva reach the sediments and lead to a shift towards more resistant species. 23.05.2017 14:40:43 EST 10096b4c-6759-4eeb-ae14-f2140ab8d95a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/a-new-system-for-the-biomonitoring-of-surface-waters Biotests with whole organisms that can be used in the field provide a direct link between environmental pollution and biological effects. The Ecotox Centre has developed a new system with chironomids that measures the contamination of suspended matter. 23.05.2017 14:24:24 EST 08ea9d89-c4b6-4cf5-9162-4e8d893f4bc8 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/aquatic-fungi-a-neglected-class Aquatic fungi degrade organic material and thereby play a key role in the food web of freshwater ecosystems. However, the organisms are not considered in the risk assessment of fungicides. This should change, the ecotoxic center feels. 23.05.2017 13:19:47 EST 9900bfc3-79e5-4d23-a2b6-519dab390329 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-project-combines-thin-layer-chromatography-and-bioassays Water and food may contain mixtures of chemicals whose toxicity is difficult to assess with conventional analysis. Effect-based methods coupled with thin-layer chromatography and LC-MS/MS are a promising new method that could help. 19.05.2017 13:27:16 EST 6354194a-f61c-48b3-b539-61661281c02d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/visitors-at-the-ecotox-centre In the last months, we have been able to welcome two visitors to the Ecotox Centre in Lausanne: Dr. Leire Méndez-Fernández of the University of the Basque Country in Spain and Stéphane Pesce of the National Research Institute of Science and Technology for Environment and Agriculture (irstea) in France. 18.05.2017 15:18:19 EST dc3ae9fa-ba78-4529-8eb9-88f1578b6a3d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/persistently-high-pesticide-levels-found-in-small-streams Small watercourses are contaminated with large numbers of herbicides, fungicides and insecticides. A new study shows that the legal requirements specified for water quality are not met in any of the five Swiss streams investigated. Indeed, thresholds for acute toxicity to aquatic organisms were also exceeded. 04.04.2017 15:00:42 EST c956d562-536a-4a46-89d2-6ecbc22d959a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/info-sheet-on-the-evaluation-of-glyphosate A new info sheet provides information on the (eco)toxicological evaluation of glyphosate and explains how the differences in the evaluation by various organisations come about. 20.03.2017 09:30:56 EST dfd90c20-d848-4409-aa27-bbc83444d9c2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-report-on-measuring-pcbs-and-dioxins-in-surface-waters This report evaluates the suitability of sediment analyses and of measurements with passive samplers in the water phase for localising PCB and dioxin sources. It is shown that PDMS passive samplers are well suited for this purpose. 10.02.2017 16:04:11 EST e340bc0a-93e7-4212-a1b1-92090bb01a7e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/students-learn-about-ecotoxicology In which ways can earthworms assist us? What are bioassays used for? The Ecotox Centre answered these and other questions to high school pupils at the EPFL's Journées des gymnasiens. 20.01.2017 14:13:27 EST f9e3b244-1cd8-4562-a0bd-9ff997304025 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ssss-annual-meeting-9th10th-february-2017-in-berne On 9th/10th of February 2017, the annual meeting of the Soil Science Society of Switzerland will be held in Berne. The topic will be "Soil Science and Soil Protection: a Challenge across Boundaries". 06.12.2016 13:22:18 EST 3b80a616-26e4-4c62-a8d3-cabd117e6eef https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/oligochaetes-indicate-sediment-quality Aquatic oligchaetes are well suited for the assessment of biological sediment quality. However, difficulties with their species determination inhibit their use as routine indicator organisms. A genetic species determination using genetic barcodes could change the situation and promote the application of the method. 29.11.2016 12:25:54 EST 158014da-c324-46e4-8ac1-ef7b4a79cc6d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/bioassays-assess-ozonation-and-post-treatment-of-wastewater Ozonation is an established treatment technology to remove micropollutants from wastewater. However, labile toxic reaction products may be formed during ozonation. Therefore, a biological post-treatment step is needed. Using bioassays, the Ecotox Centre has assessed how efficient ecotoxicological effects are reduced by ozonation in combination with various post-treatment technologies. 22.11.2016 11:05:42 EST 519350a4-791c-416e-9fd2-ee2360ab23fd https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/neonicotinoids-harmful-to-soil-organisms The neonicotinoids imidacloprid and clothianidin were detected in soil of sugar beet, wheat and corn fields as well as in soil of ecological compensation areas. The toxicity of the substances to the beneficial springtail was determined. It was shown that the measured concentrations represent a potential risk for springtail health. 22.11.2016 10:06:07 EST cb0071a6-eb24-4490-b64e-e53e6733804a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/risk-assessment-of-transformation-products-of-pharmaceuticals Not only pharmaceuticals but also their transformation products may pollute our surface waters. However, the assessment of their ecotoxicological risk is difficult because data on their ecotoxicity are often missing. In a case study, the Ecotox Centre compares the existing assessment methods. 22.11.2016 10:33:19 EST 66b9fc56-c986-49da-b570-d659c776b78d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/legally-binding-effect-based-quality-criteria-for-switzerland The Ecotox Centre is currently adapting numerous proposals for quality criteria before they become legally binding in 2018. 20.11.2016 13:55:33 EST 0cfdb06c-cfcb-45b0-84ff-354ec95123d6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/estrogens-from-agriculture A joint project by Agroscope and the Ecotox Centre investigates the discharge and fate of natural estrogens from agriculture. The aim is to quantitatively assess the occurrence, the behaviour and the importance of estrogens from agriculture for surface waters in Switzerland. The project is financed by the Federal Office for the Environment. 18.11.2016 11:10:21 EST afad01eb-a015-4069-a271-2ce728bff31c https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/sediment-storage-conditions-influence-biotest-results New results from the Ecotox Centre show that freezing has a pronounced influence on sediment toxicity. 27.10.2016 10:55:33 EST b8a488b1-cda2-4d4d-9d22-4f37f2261eb8 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/metals-in-swiss-sediments A new report summarizes the available data on metals in Swiss sediments and enables a prioritization of these important contaminants. 21.07.2016 13:54:01 EST b7af2e4d-f605-4908-ada4-9b4df4b0c6a3 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/successful-evaluation-of-the-ecotox-centre In 2015, the Ecotox Centre was evaluated by external experts. The evaluation report has now been published: Overall, the development of the Ecotox Centre and its services and impacts were rated very positively. 27.05.2016 13:22:41 EST a8601ba2-fa91-40dd-8424-a87c1217d4ca https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/passive-samplers-as-investigators-find-pcb-source-in-the-birs Several years ago fish in the river Birs were polluted with PCBs way beyond the legal threshold but the pollutant source remained unknown. With the help of passive samplers the source in a manufacturing plant could be revealed. 18.05.2016 14:47:07 EST fd0f603d-a4ac-4993-9d08-71670e2598ee https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicity-of-corrosion-inhibitors Corrosion inhibitors protect steel structures from oxidative degradation but ingredients may be washed out that are harmful to water organisms. Two of the four corrosion inhibitors investigated by the Ecotox Centre released ecotoxic and estrogenic compounds. 18.05.2016 16:22:45 EST 136d4122-8089-431f-8c2b-b9d90b24c90d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/development-of-a-new-earthworm-assay The Ecotox Centre has adapted the bait lamina test to measure the feeding activity of earthworms in the laboratory. The test gives functional answers that are relevant for the ecosystem and in the future could improve the risk assessment of chemicals. 17.05.2016 13:47:09 EST 35981830-0d7c-4e94-9dfb-e0ec0850226e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/sediment-quality-in-the-venoge Do the sediments in the Venoge contribute to the rivers inferior water quality? To answer this question the Ecotox Centre has assessed the water quality with bioassays and chemical analyses. 17.05.2016 14:07:05 EST d9bcbbfb-5ed8-4473-92f5-69e54b37f17c https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/progress-in-the-sediment-module-for-the-modular-stepwise-procedure Together with Eawag and the Federal Office for the Environment, the Ecotox Centre has been working on a sediment module for the assessment of streams since January 2015. 17.05.2016 13:02:41 EST b3924300-2e9c-459d-ae2d-216efdae7b36 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/micropollutants-teaching-materials-for-high-schools-and-environmental-education Stefan Widmer of the University of Zurich has developed teaching materials on micropollutants and ecotoxicology for use in high schools and environmental education. 13.05.2016 17:17:34 EST bebe859b-4b2d-440f-9b99-adda859d046e https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicology-for-high-school-students Last week, the Ecotox Centre's laboratory in Lausanne opened its doors to numerous high school students and gave them some insight into the field of ecotoxicology. 24.03.2016 15:42:03 EST a44c9a39-15e0-4427-9eaa-f81758f15bb1 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/are-wood-preservatives-toxic-to-soil-organisms To protect wood as a building material from fungal and bacterial decay, various biocides are used. The Ecotox Centre has investigated which biocides are mostly used in Switzerland and how these affect soil organisms. 13.11.2015 11:20:53 EST 8e0648b1-4899-4c53-950c-08ad8d05d048 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/progress-in-the-evaluation-of-ecotoxicological-data During the authorization procedure of chemicals or for the determination of environmental quality criteria ecotoxicological data need to be evaluated regarding their reliability and relevance. Das Oekotoxzentrum hat ein neues Bewertungssystem mitentwickelt. The Ecotox Centre has developed a new system that that is supposed to make this data review more secure and reproducible and less subjective. 12.11.2015 16:05:53 EST e220910a-c661-44fe-8e9e-e03a1bbbac65 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/info-sheet-on-microplastics-in-the-environment The info sheet summarizes the current knowledge and gives details on the sources of microplastic particles, their transport in the environment, their effect on aquatic organisms and techniques for sampling and analysis. 11.11.2015 15:49:07 EST f706b200-67fb-4507-b46d-85c8115514d5 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/setac-glb-s-exciting-20th-annual-conference Organised by the Ecotox Centre under the direction of Inge Werner, the 20th annual conference of the German-language branch of the “Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry” (SETAC GLB) took place from 7th to 10th September 2015 at ETH Zurich. 15.09.2015 11:45:39 EST a74cfb66-c851-48ab-a8de-7943fd0134f2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/rainbow-trouts-measure-advanced-wastewater-treatment The Ecotox Centre is investigating how the transformation products of ozonation can be effectively eliminated 26.06.2015 10:44:36 EST 4be2a35b-0626-4399-9d6a-9b8f5cc8682d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/amphibians-and-plant-protection-products-more-information-is-needed Since the influence of pesticides has been little studied in amphibians, it will be discussed in an expert workshop whether further studies are needed and how the protection of amphibians can be assured. 29.05.2015 14:58:42 EST 71c8714a-1025-432f-bd8b-085f2e08e278 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/evaluation-concept-for-micropollutants-from-diffuse-sources A new evaluation concept is supposed to help measure and assess the input of micropollutants from diffuse sources into surface waters using effect-based quality criteria. 28.05.2015 14:31:41 EST 0f77606e-e4e3-4fd3-968c-b306e332d0f2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/rough-evaluation-of-surface-waters-with-a-high-effluent-load-using-bioassays An assessment of the water quality using bioassays is particularly useful when biologically active substances or mixtures are present, that cannot be adequately assessed using chemical analysis. We present a practical approach to the rough evaluation of contaminated waters. 27.05.2015 14:20:39 EST c7924eba-9b1a-407f-996c-aabbd7f41f54 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/seminar-benjamin-pauget-18-june-2015-1400 "Le programme Bioindicateurs: du développement à la validation d'outils biologique indicateurs de la qualité des sols" 18 June 2015, 14.00 26.05.2015 12:42:15 EST c6b0fbf0-b07d-4fa4-825a-276852ffd93d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/panel-discussion-on-amphibians-and-plant-protection-products The Ecotox Cntre is organizing an expert workshop and a panel discussion on the topic of amphibians and plant protection production on June 16, 2015. 26.05.2015 10:44:58 EST e6300de1-f81b-4d0a-9625-fdb8b30d116a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/setac-glb-annual-meeting-2015-at-zurich We would like to invite you to the 20th Annual Meeting of SETAC GLB: "Ecotoxicology and Environmental Chemistry - from research to practice", which takes place in Zurich, September 7-10, 2015. 26.03.2015 12:42:41 EST c9a82b2f-a3de-4033-8e3a-59c60ec8250d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/demeau-workshop-on-effect-based-monitoring-tools The Ecotox Centre participates in the organization of a workshop on in vitro bioassays as innovative tools for water quality assessment. 15.01.2015 12:43:34 EST 894eecad-c247-454f-9231-c6f4ddf12fab https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/2015-is-the-international-year-of-soils The General Assembly of the United Nations decided to proclaim 2015 as the "International Year of Soils" and to create a platform to raise awareness of our soils. 09.01.2015 12:44:25 EST 64271459-1c13-4899-ae2e-0eba692afede https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/mixtures-of-harmless-pollutant-concentrations-are-actually-toxic-eu-regulation-needs-to-be-adjusted The risk posed by complex chemical mixtures in the environment to wildlife and humans is increasingly debated by scientists and politicians alike. 25.11.2014 15:48:55 EST 31ea680c-7ec0-45ef-be41-62eda889b4a6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-member-of-cipel-scientific-board Neu ist Benoît Ferrari vom Oekotoxzentrum Mitglied des wissenschaftlichen Rates der Internationalen Kommission zum Schutz des Genfersees (Commission internationale pour la protection des eaux du Léman, CIPEL). 29.10.2014 15:53:31 EST 634b7814-58af-43b8-a47c-e49b8964e27b https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/news-info-sheets-on-plant-protection-products-in-surface-waters-eqs-and-rac-values Plant protection products (PPPs) in surface waters are currently at the centre of interest of policy, regulation and environmental research. Thus, the Swiss Federal Council has called for an action plan to reduce the risks of pesticides and to promote their sustainable use. 15.09.2014 15:59:32 EST d12ab1e5-7fe0-4ba3-ae82-b4b3d959fc86 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-at-wwtp-neugut-open-day How can water animals teach us about the quality of surface waters? This and other questions could be answered at an open day at the WWTP Neugut in Dübendorf on September 6, 2014. 06.09.2014 16:02:52 EST 557ba0b8-7c59-4257-978d-973c5652e5d2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/european-eqs-experts-at-the-ecotox-centre Quality criteria experts from numerous European countries met on June 11 and 12 for the Multilateral Meeting, which this time was held at the Ecotox Centre. 13.06.2014 16:04:45 EST 76ac6863-fbc1-4f52-ab5f-0b624e7a84a7 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-eu-report-on-effect-based-monitoring-tools Under the Water Framework Directive, the water quality needs to be reliably monitored. In addition to analytical methods, integrative methods that measure the water quality on the basis of the effect or potential harm to aquatic organisms should play an important role. 24.04.2014 16:07:41 EST 33eb4fb7-8ca2-403f-9e18-4b827c59c54a https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/pesticides-in-swiss-surface-waters-surpass-environmental-quality-criteria A new screening survey has found more than 100 different pesticides in watercourses of the Swiss Mittelland. 05.03.2014 16:10:05 EST bedfaba3-7e55-4afb-8f41-8d056c2a7cdd https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/bioassays-for-micropollutants-put-to-test In a large ring test, 20 laboratories - among them the Ecotox Centre - have used a total of 103 in vitro bioassay methods to assess the quality of water samples. 04.02.2014 16:13:03 EST 8359c721-7cec-4489-a07a-6057362cf4eb https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/setac-europe-2014-in-basel The Ecotox Centre participates in the organisation of the next annual meeting of SETAC Europe, which will be held in Basel on May 11th-15th, 2014. 14.11.2013 16:14:20 EST 31ea5d6f-7359-449c-a070-93784778421c https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/news-group-leader-for-sediment-and-soil-ecotoxicology On 1 October Benoit Ferrari started as the new team leader for sediment and soil ecotoxicology at the Ecotox Centre in Lausanne. 01.10.2013 16:15:38 EST f2544d08-3098-424a-951f-33a230e488a9 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/encapsulated-biocides-are-less-toxic Biocides in façade render prevent the growth of algae and fungi, but are also washed out into the environment with the rain. 25.07.2013 16:17:05 EST ed559b87-89c7-4923-b355-d0a309e6622d https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicity-of-rare-earth-elements Rare earth elements is the common name given to 15 chemically similar periodic elements of the lanthanide family, scandium and yttrium. 05.07.2013 16:20:22 EST 098c194f-0758-4f86-91d5-0847ccae8fc6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-database-on-environmental-quality-standards In the assessment of water quality, many countries specify limits for individual substances based on ecotoxicological data — so-called environmental quality standards (EQS), which ca, however, differ considerably from one country to another. 25.05.2013 16:21:47 EST 3a82eeaf-6753-40eb-ad81-153d6241b7f2 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-info-sheets-on-radionuclides-and-fracking The Ecotox Centre has prepared two new info sheets on current topics. The info sheet on hydraulic fracturing (fracking) reviews the current state of scientific knowledge and describes potential impacts on groundwater and surface waters. The other factsheet provides information on the fate of radionuclides in ecosystems and their effects on organisms. 23.05.2013 16:23:59 EST f4545043-bbed-4f0f-8eab-2fa94f13af03 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-informs-council-of-states-committee When the Council of States Committee for Science, Education and Culture CSEC visited Eawag, Etienne Vermeirssen presented the Ecotox Centre's work. 20.05.2013 16:25:38 EST 4c2f9c93-e140-420c-a33e-932a1f627b01 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-member-of-sednet-steering-group SedNet is a European network aimed at incorporating sediment issues and knowledge into European strategies to support the achievement of a good environmental status and to develop new tools for sediment management. 15.05.2013 16:26:56 EST 8ce6c9fc-34d7-4ed6-98c0-40a901f136ca https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/inge-werner-new-president-of-setac-glb Inge Werner, Head of the Ecotox Centre, is the new president of the German Language Branch of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC GLB), the regional SETAC branch that represents the society's interests in the German-speaking countries and that organizes one scientific conference per year. 01.01.2013 16:28:09 EST d3acbfc7-256c-429b-b6b0-9ea58f24c5f3 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-suggests-quality-criteria-for-pesticides On our homepage we list our quality criteria suggestions for numerous organic compounds: Now also values for eight pesticides (biocides and plant protection products) are included. 26.11.2012 16:29:51 EST f96b8dd1-4089-4141-8b85-4cf40a578756 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/new-info-sheets-on-endocrine-disruptors-sediment-toxicology-and-nanotoxicology The Ecotox Centre has prepared new info sheets on "Endocrine Disruptors in the Environment", "Sediment Ecotoxicity" and "Ecotoxicology of Nanloparticles". 23.07.2012 16:32:20 EST 8382b0c3-5f19-4c12-be44-38a672c0b464 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotoxicology-for-schools Yesterday, the Ecotox Centre's laboratory in Lausanne opened its doors to numerous school classes and gave them some insight into the field of ecotoxicology. 06.06.2012 16:33:28 EST 3df80d1c-0828-454f-8cd9-28ca5f886dd4 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/eu-proposes-eqs-for-new-priority-substances-ecotox-centre-contributed Die EU Kommission schlägt 15 neue prioritäre Substanzen vor, die in Zukunft in EU-Oberflächengewässern unter der Wasserrahmenrichtlinie überwacht und kontrolliert werden sollen. An der Erarbeitung der neuen EU-Grenzwerte für diese Substanzen war auch das Oekotoxzentrum beteiligt. 31.01.2012 16:34:56 EST b61a2a43-ecd1-4867-b9f5-f1793636cfc6 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/ecotox-centre-at-tecday-in-frauenfeld What are environmental hormones? How can they be deteced? The Ecotox Centre answered these and other questions to pupils of the Kantonsschule Frauenfeld at the TecDay on November 3, 2011. 03.11.2011 16:36:16 EST 89136b6b-4d83-42eb-b1b4-cb735655c145 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/course-micropollutants-in-surface-waters-with-a-focus-on-hormonally-active-substances-in-german The course gives a theoretical general introduction into the problem of micropollutants, especially hormonally active substances, in rivers and lakes. 29.09.2011 16:38:57 EST e8cbc671-a208-4154-992c-93ae558b5248 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/assessment-concept-for-micropollutants-now-also-available-in-english The concept for the assessment of water quality with respect to contamination with micropollutants has been published as a book chapter in English. 09.05.2011 16:43:02 EST 2c1984ae-9ba0-45b3-b1cb-4ce4653d7e3f https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/quality-criteria-for-plant-protection-products Effect-based quality criteria for plant protection products are necessary for the ecotoxicological assessment of surface water quality. 15.04.2011 16:45:04 EST 5a4268ec-c84f-4d07-beca-ff5aa53481ce https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/all-clear-regarding-estrogenic-substances-in-swiss-mineral-water German and Italian researchers recently reported that bottled mineral water is contaminated with estrogenic substances in many cases. A study performed by the Ecotox Centre and the Federal Office of Public Health gives the all-clear for Switzerland. 04.04.2011 16:46:56 EST e986a25f-4fdc-42ad-863d-921c55583a23 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/mixture-toxicity-what-can-research-do-and-what-does-practice-need In November 2010, the Ecotox Centre held a workshop to evaluate the state of the art and practical needs in the field of mixture toxicity. The participants discussed the regulatory challenges and formulated the need for action for the future. 01.03.2011 16:49:54 EST 508e7fe8-e38a-4b42-940c-dd895ddd51e3 https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/setac-symposium-on-mixture-toxicity-ecotox-centre-is-co-organiser The Ecotox Centre is the co-organiser of a SETAC Special Science Symposium on the topic of mixture toxicity. 02.02.2011 16:52:07 EST bb2c1822-5366-476c-8748-98d7fdf928fd https://www.ecotoxcentre.ch/news-publications/news/do-pesticides-harm-our-fish Environmentally relevant mixtures of pesticides affect the energy balance of fish, with possible consequences for their longer-term survival. This effect is influenced by higher water temperatures and diseases. Detection of the complex effects with specific biomarkers is promising. 01.01.0001 12:10:37 EST d7faffa2-3e28-4887-92fa-128a4edddf77