Tobacco Eco-Toxic Fallout: Organochlorine Pesticides and Polychlorinated Biphenyls Residues in Hookah Wastewater Publisher



Soleimani F ; Moeini Z ; Tahmasbizadeh M ; Yazdi N B ; Mouseli A ; Arfaeinia H ; Heydari G ; Hatami M M
Source: Global Nest Journal Published:2026

Abstract

Concerns about both flavored and traditional waterpipe smoking continue to grow because of their considerable environmental and health impacts. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) present in wastewater generated from waterpipe use. Samples from four major brands of flavored tobacco (Nakhla, Al fakher, Al tawareg, Tangiers) and traditional tobacco were analyzed. The mean concentration levels of ∑OCPs in Nakhla, Al-Fakher, Al Tawareg and Tangiers brands were 111.25, 125.51, 122.70, and 98.13 ng/L, respectively, and in traditional tobacco samples was 132.23 ng/L. The PCBs concentrations in flavored tobacco samples were 10.36-11.94 μg/L, which exceeds the concentration in traditional tobacco at 10.26 μg/L. β-HCH was the most prevalent OCP, representing up to 51% in flavored tobacco wastewater and 45% in traditional tobacco wastewater. PCB194 was the most common PCB congener, consistently making up 24-25% of the entire PCB concentration. The risk quotient (RQ) for values traditional and flavored hookah wastewater were ranged from 0.00 (δ-HCH) to 2.46 (endosulfan) and 0.00 (δ-HCH) to 3.50 (endosulfan), respectively. The environmental and health impacts of hookah wastewater, particularly concerning PCBs and OCPs and other toxic compounds, are becoming increasingly concerning. Despite the comparatively low toxic equivalent (TEQ) values associated with hookah wastewater, the continuous discharge of such waste into aquatic environments present considerable threats to the wellbeing of both natural habitats and people. Addressing this contamination requires concerted efforts from policymakers, researchers, and communities worldwide to develop effective solutions. © 2026 Global NEST.