A review of different removal techniques for pesticides found in European waters identified by the European Environmental Agency

The widespread use of pesticides in agriculture has led to increasing concern over the contamination of water across Europe. Although many pesticide residues are detected below the maximum residue level (MRL) set by the EU Drinking Water Directive (0.1 µg/L for single substances), several compounds have been consistently reported above these limits, indicating potential risks to both environmental and human health. In February 2024, the European Environmental Agency (EEA) identified four pesticides: imidacloprid, metolachlor, atrazine, and bentazone, as substances exceeding regulatory thresholds at a significant number of monitoring sites. Highlighting the need for new removal techniques that can trap these persistent pesticides. This review explores 94 studies from the past decade, investigating a wide range of removal methods including adsorbents and biosorbents, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), electrochemical oxidation, and biological approaches. Particular attention is given to removal performance, operational feasibility, and compliance with regulatory limits. As it stands, AOPs and electrochemical oxidation currently offer the most promising results, with several studies demonstrating complete removal of targeted pesticides, including final concentrations compliant with the EU’s MRL. • A comprehensive review of different removal approach’s for imidacloprid, metolachlor, atrazine and bentazone. • Currently advanced oxidation processes are the most successful options available for water treatment. • Currently sorption materials are the most popular options available for water treatment. • Further work is required before bio-based materials become a viable option for water treatment.