Emerging pollutants in waste water: Challenges and advancements in treatment technology

Abstract Microplastics, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), and other emerging contaminants in wastewater have all caused serious environmental and public health issues. The effectiveness of conventional wastewater treatment techniques to remove these pollutants, such as activated sludge, membrane bioreactors, and coagulation-flocculation, is often insufficient. The difficulties and improvements in treatment technology for eliminating developing contaminants from wastewater are examined in this thorough review study. The review gives a general overview of the most important subcategories of emerging pollutants, the shortcomings of traditional wastewater treatment techniques, and the developments in treatment technologies, including advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), adsorption-based methods, and novel biological treatment approaches. The obstacles mentioned include the need for sustainable and energy-efficient solutions, regulatory and monitoring concerns, and technological and economic hurdles. A number of suggestions are made as a response to these difficulties, such as boosting oversight and regulating procedures, fostering cooperation and information sharing, encouraging industry participation, and supporting research and development. These suggestions may be put into practice in order to reduce the hazards posed by developing contaminants in wastewater and safeguard our water resources and the ecosystem over the long run. The article emphasizes the value of using a multidisciplinary and cooperative approach to solving the problems caused by new contaminants. In order to create original solutions, advance best practices, and build suitable regulatory frameworks, it underlines the necessity for ongoing research, policy development, and stakeholder collaboration. The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide academics, decision-makers, industry stakeholders, and the general public with a useful resource in their quest to comprehend and resolve the complicated problem of developing contaminants in wastewater.