Emerging Pollutants in Soil and Water: Sources, Risks, and Advances in Removal Technologies for Sustainable Management

Abstract

Emerging pollutants, known for their complex chemical structures and varied sources, are gaining attention as significant environmental and public health concerns. Their persistence in the environment, ability to bioaccumulate, and widespread presence across ecosystems make them particularly troubling. These substances originate from diverse sources, including agricultural runoff, industrial effluents, and everyday consumer products like pharmaceuticals and personal care items. Exposure to these contaminants has been associated with health issues, particularly affecting the respiratory and digestive systems. This review offers an in-depth analysis of major classes of both organic and inorganic emerging contaminants such as antibiotics, nanomaterials, microplastics, and EDCs. It explores their origins, the pathways through which they enter and move through the environment, and their resistance to standard treatment processes. Furthermore, the review assesses a range of advanced treatment technologies, including advanced oxidation processes, membrane-based separation methods, and adsorption strategies. The discussion focuses on their effectiveness, economic feasibility, and potential l for large-scale application. In addition, the study underscores the need for integrated risk assessment frameworks to quantify ecological and human health risks, and it calls for strengthened policy measures and regulatory standards. By identifying current gaps in treatment technologies and governance, this review outlines critical opportunities for innovation in pollutant removal, sustainable resource management, and the development of adaptive regulatory systems. These insights contribute to more effective groundwater protection and broader environmental sustainability goals.

Keywords: Exposure assessment; Heavy metals; Human health; Microplastic; Pollutants; Potential effects.