Painkillers, pesticides and metals found in False Bay waters: UCT study (opens original article in a new tab)

A University of Cape Town study found a mix of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and metals in False Bay's waters and sediments, with higher concentrations in sediments and potential long-term environmental concerns.

• A study found painkillers, pesticides, and metals in False Bay's waters and sediments.
• Contaminant levels were higher in sediments than in seawater, with diclofenac being the most common pharmaceutical detected.
• The study found no immediate harm to marine life, but warned that pharmaceuticals could accumulate and affect the ecosystem over time.