Description
This document contains the relevant toxicological information and other literature used to develop a water quality guideline that protects freshwater aquatic life against copper toxicity. Its derivation follows the Protocol to Develop Alberta Water Quality Guidelines for Protection of Freshwater Aquatic Life (Alberta Environmental Protection 1996). Copper is an essential compound for plants and animals in small quantities. However, copper becomes toxic when biological requirements are exceeded. Copper is widely distributed in environmental media because it is a naturally occurring element. Compared to natural emissions, emissions of copper from human activities are substantial. Most copper released from human activities comes from disposal of coal ash residue and spreading of municipal and industrial wastes on land.