Assessment of Persistent Organic Pollutants in Fierza Lake, Albania: Environmental Impacts and Contamination Profile

The aim of this study was to analyze persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in water, sediment, and fish samples from Fierza Lake, Albania. Water, sediment, and fish samples were collected in December 2023 and May 2024. The samples were analyzed for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The analysis of POPs was conducted using GC-MS/MS. Total PCB concentrations in water, sediment, and fish ranged from < MDL to 4.372 ± 0.957 µg/L, < MDL to 4.217 ± 0.968 µg/kg, and < MDL to 5.849 ± 0.953 µg/kg, respectively. PAHs in water, sediment, and fish samples ranged from < MDL to 0.195 ± 0.061 µg/L, < MDL to 0.203 ± 0.067 µg/kg, and < MDL to 0.227 ± 0.072 µg/kg, respectively. OCP concentrations in water, sediment, and fish ranged from < MDL to 3.626 ± 1.058 µg/L, < MDL to 3.032 ± 0.724 µg/kg, and < MDL to 3.558 ± 1.108 µg/kg, respectively. Although aldrin and endosulfan were detected at higher levels, an increase in the concentrations of DDTs, HCHs, and heptachlor was also noted. Continuous monitoring of POP levels by relevant institutions is recommended to ensure comprehensive assessments of the potential environmental risks facing the lake.