A Review: Emerging Contaminants in Water: Environmental Impact and Sustainable Removal Strategies

Abstract Emerging contaminants (ECs) are newly recognized pollutants that have been detected in water sources but are not yet fully regulated. These include pharmaceuticals, personal care products (PPCPs), endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), microplastics, and industrial by-products. Unlike conventional pollutants, ECs persist in aquatic environments, bioaccumulate, and have been linked to adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. The inefficiency of conventional wastewater treatment methods in eliminating ECs exacerbates their impact, making it crucial to develop advanced detection and remediation technologies. This review provides an in-depth analysis of ECs, discussing their sources, environmental and health impacts, detection techniques, and mitigation strategies. Furthermore, global regulatory frameworks are examined, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive policies to manage EC pollution