Ecotoxicity of Wood Preservatives
To protect wood as a building material from fungal and bacterial decay, various biocides are used. By direct contact or by leaching these biocides can get into the soil posing a potential risk for soil organisms and thus soil health. Commissioned by the Federal Office for the Environment, the Ecotox Centre studies the toxicity for soil organisms of active ingredients in wood preservatives that are frequently used in Switzerland. In a literature review the available toxicity data are compiled and the expected exposure assessed based on a market analysis of the consumption in Switzerland. In addition, bioassays with earthworms and springtails are performed.
Applied test systems
Publications
Final report: Ecotoxicity of wood preservatives (SOLTOX): Current knowledge and evaluation of potential toxicity for soil organisms