Influence of Industrial Wastewater Irrigation on Agricultural Crops: A Comprehensive Review of Effects on Growth, Physiology, and Metabolism

Abstract— Industrial wastewater, containing a complex mixture of organic and inorganic compounds, exerts a profound influence on crop physiology. When pollutant concentrations are managed through dilution or treatment, the agricultural reuse of this wastewater can promote sustainable practices by conserving scarce freshwater resources and providing valuable nutrients. However, irrigation with untreated or highly concentrated effluent leads to the accumulation of toxic heavy metals in plants, adversely affecting seed germination, plant growth, crop yield, and ultimately human health. This review synthesizes current research on the quality of wastewater from diverse industries and its differential effects on growth, yield, and key physiological and biochemical parameters in various crop plants. The analysis underscores that careful, context-specific management is imperative to harness benefits while mitigating significant ecological and agricultural risks.