It’s a Micropollutant! A Performant Name for Chemical Residues

• In Event: Residues: Rethinking Chemical Environments - II

Abstract

Micropollutants is an umbrella term that stands for residues of pharmaceuticals, synthetic hormones, psychiatric drugs and other tiny doses of industrial chemicals in the water cycle. They enter the water via our excrement or when unused pharmaceuticals are flushed down the toilet or sink. In recent years, such trace substances have developed into “contaminants of emerging concern” (US EPA, 2008). They raise toxicological concerns, despite their very low concentrations. After all, pharmaceuticals and hormones are explicitly designed to have effects at trace concentrations. Experts also warn that residues will accumulate due to ageing societies and climate change and have begun to tackle the problem. In this paper, I focus on the public discourse on what is described as ‘micropollutants’. Empirically, I draw on a content analysis of 20 years of newspaper reporting on the issue in the German press (~450 articles). Theoretically, I take inspiration from Judith Butler’s work (‘It’s a girl!’) to explore the performative potential of naming the problem in this particular way. My argument is that the umbrella term ‘micropollutants’ frames the issue in a way that privileges technological ‘end-of-pipe’ solutions rather than measures 'at the source'. Speaking of 'micropollutants', so my thesis, makes it more difficult to address systemic problems in our health care system or reflect on the use and disposal of pharmaceuticals, personal care products or life style drugs as part of an affluent life style.

Author

• Nona Schulte-Römer, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ