Fate of sulfonamides in wetland systems by multi-element stable isotope concept

ended

Antibiotics (AB), their degradation products and the translocation of resistant genes in the environment poses serious health risks to humans, animals and ecosystems (OneHealth concept). Constructed wetlands (CW) have untapped potential to treat wastewater from agriculture, domestic sewage or contaminated water effluents from waste water treatment plant for eliminating AB. However, the overall distribution, persistence and the contribution of different dissipation processes of AB in CW remain mostly unknown. Here, the project aims to identify degradation processes of AB in wetlands by developing a cutting-edge four-dimensional element isotope (13C, 15N, 2H, and 33/34S) approach and concepts to improve CW use worldwide. Sulfonamides (SAs) are selected as representative AB. Methods of isotope-effect free extraction from environmental matrices and isotope analysis will be developed while a conceptual framework will be tested to isotopically identify degradation processes in wetland, including the direct and indirect photolysis with DOM and nitrate and plant degradation in vitro and in vivo, and to further monitor SAs degradation in the field using isotope concepts. This work will open a new paradigm to better understand and follow up the fate of SAs and other emerging micropollutants in wetlands but also for other field conditions. The applicant has a proven record of experience of isotope concept application supported by 6 first authored publications and has developed independent thinking and problem-solving skills during his past scientific study. The host holds both unique infrastructure for stable isotope analysis (GC/EA-IRMS, MC-ICPMS) and the expertise for implementation, evaluation and interpretation and a rich experience for wetland field work. This project is thus based on the genuine combination of expertise of all contributors to gain new knowledge and experience, enabling the applicant to develop his own research path within this emerging field.