Chapter 1 - Introduction

Abstract

Emerging micropollutants (EMPs) are defined as synthetic or natural compounds released from point and nonpoint resources and end up to the aquatic environments at low concentration. EMPs are not commonly monitored and measured; and therefore they impose adverse effects on human health and aquatic world. The EMPs include pharmaceuticals and personal care products, detergents, steroid hormones, industrial chemicals, pesticides, and many other contaminants. Although the effects of micropollutants in aquatic environments are not very well known yet, there are clear indications considering their acute and chronic impacts on ecosystem. Bioaccumulation, toxicity, and resistance to degradation are reasons for potential risks of EMPs. Most of the conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are not designed to completely remove EMPs at low concentration, and this subject makes the treatment processes vulnerable to remove the dangerous compounds. The upgrading of the conventional WWTPs might reduce the discharge of EMPs into the receiving waters and can even improve the overall quality of wastewater effluents for possible reuse. After reviewing the potential risks associated with the EMPs, this chapter focuses on applying and design of the new and low cost treatment technologies with respect to control and removal of EMPs from aquatic environments. In practical terms the results of this chapter will help to obtain the information on EMPs in aquatic environments and develop significant solutions to fill the knowledge gaps faced in aquatic environments.