In the heart of Baghdad, the Tigris River, a vital lifeline for the city, is facing a silent threat: total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs). A recent study published in the journal ‘Applied Water Science’ (translated to English as ‘Applied Water Science’) has shed light on the extent of this pollution, with significant implications for the energy sector and environmental management.
The research, led by Fikrat M. Hassan from the Department of Biology at the College of Science for Women, University of Baghdad, investigated the concentrations and origins of TPHs in the Tigris River. The study, conducted over six months, analyzed water, sediment, and macrophyte samples from three sites along the river, including an oil refinery.
The findings revealed that TPHs were present in all matrices, with concentrations varying significantly between sites and seasons. “The highest concentrations were found at the oil refinery site, indicating anthropogenic sources of pollution,” Hassan explained. The study identified 13 different hydrocarbon compounds, with hexatriacontane, hexadecane, and nonane being the most prevalent.
The commercial impacts of this research are substantial. The oil refinery’s operations are directly linked to the increased TPHs levels, highlighting the need for stricter environmental regulations and monitoring in the energy sector. As Hassan noted, “The oil refinery site is considered a risk site due to the increasing concentration of TPHs. This pollution, alongside other environmental problems in Iraq, needs a swift solution to save the river.”
The study also found that the origin of TPHs was predominantly pyrogenic, or anthropogenic, based on the ratio of low molecular weight to high molecular weight hydrocarbons. This suggests that human activities, particularly those related to the energy sector, are the primary contributors to TPHs pollution in the Tigris River.
The research underscores the urgent need for effective water management strategies in lotic ecosystems, particularly in regions with significant industrial activity. As the energy sector continues to expand, so too does the potential for environmental damage. This study serves as a stark reminder of the need for sustainable practices and robust environmental monitoring.
The findings of this research could shape future developments in the field by influencing policy decisions and encouraging the adoption of cleaner technologies. As the energy sector grapples with the challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability, studies like this one provide valuable insights and data to guide decision-making.
In conclusion, this research highlights the critical need for environmental stewardship in the energy sector. By understanding the sources and impacts of TPHs pollution, we can work towards a more sustainable future for the Tigris River and the communities that depend on it. As Hassan aptly put it, “The THPs pollution is beside other environmental problems in Iraq need to find a quick solution to save the river.”