Contaminants of Emerging Concern in South African water resources Knowledge Hub dataset

The dataset was generated as part of the establishment of a national Knowledge Hub for contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) in South African water resources. It was produced through a combination of laboratory experiments, field sampling and data compilation activities aimed at improving the accessibility and integration of CEC-related information for researchers, regulators and water resource managers.

Two primary research components contributed data to the dataset. The first investigated the presence of emerging pollutants in irrigation water and their effects on soil health and microbial communities at selected smallholder farms in the North West Province. Water and soil samples were collected, analysed for physico-chemical parameters and selected contaminants of emerging concern, and assessed using microbial DNA sequencing techniques. A greenhouse experiment using spinach was conducted to evaluate the influence of contaminated irrigation water on soil microbiota and crop growth.

The second component focused on the characterisation, interaction and modelling of microplastics, nanoparticles and semi-volatile organic compounds in surface water from selected rivers in Gauteng and Limpopo provinces. Seasonal water samples were collected and analysed for physico-chemical properties, suspended solids, microplastics and nanoparticles. Laboratory-based extraction, spectroscopy, chromatography and toxicity modelling techniques were applied to assess contaminant occurrence, behaviour and potential ecological risks.

The dataset was intended to contribute verified CEC data to a centralised online knowledge hub, supporting water quality monitoring, policy development and future research. It provided baseline information on contaminant distribution, seasonal variability and potential impacts on environmental and agricultural systems in South Africa.