Pharmaceuticals in water reclamation: prioritisation and monitoring for sustainable irrigation practices in mediterranean regions

ENG- The present doctoral thesis explores the potential risks posed by pharmaceutical compounds (PhACs) in water reuse scenarios across the Mediterranean region. The research begins with a comprehensive review of scientific literature, identifying the 50 most frequently detected PhACs in wastewater, surface water, and marine environments in Catalonia. These substances span a broad spectrum of therapeutic classes. An analytical method was subsequently developed to detect 45 of these compounds in environmental samples collected from Catalonia and the Greek islands (Articles 1 and 3). This method was then employed to assess the effectiveness of two wastewater treatment technologies. The conventional activated sludge (CAS) system achieved removal efficiencies of up to 98 percent, while the nature-based UASB-CW system yielded elimination rates between 64 and 69 percent. These results indicate that the CAS system is more effective in removing the targeted compounds. Additionally, regional variations in contaminant profiles underscored the importance of tailored prioritisation strategies based on geographical context. In parallel, two risk assessment frameworks were applied to evaluate both the environmental and human health implications of the detected PhACs (Articles 2 and 3). The analysis identified ibuprofen and iopromide as having the highest potential for environmental impact, whereas diclofenac, ibuprofen, and several psychoactive pharmaceuticals emerged as the most concerning in terms of potential human health effects. Nonetheless, all compounds remained below established safety thresholds. Overall, this thesis provides a robust scientific basis for improving water reuse management in Mediterranean contexts, integrating environmental protection and public health considerations into future water governance strategies