I challenge -
I challenge the analyzers to look at the volumeteric dilution of caffeine in solution at the points studied that weren't immediately adjacent to a sewage outfall - and then analytically demonstrate their analytical equipment's ability to detect at levels that low. It doesn't take much of an area volume and the resulting dilution to get specific molecules like caffeine down below detectable levels - parts per trillion and even lower. In fact, if the analyst were heavy coffee drinkers, contamination from aerosols in the associated testing atmosphere might be more plausible.
I'm all for eliminating coastal septic tanks, but this isn't a plausible way to demonstrate the need. Measuring phosphates and nitrates would be a lot more convincing that there is a local sewage problem. Anyone tested the local macro alga for caffeine-like molecule production? Lots of plants produce caffeine.
