Navigating micropollutant contamination: A review of industrial wastewater technologies and policies in the U.S.

Edited by: SIMAR KAUR MATTEWAL1 AND DYLAN M. MCCORMICK2 | ^Banner Image Generated by AI

With alarming levels of toxic chemicals detected in human bloodstreams owing to inadequate water treatment, industries face immense pressure to adopt effective water treatment methods while reducing their carbon footprints. However, a lack of stringent regulatory frameworks for monitoring and setting allowable chemical levels in water resources, coupled with poor industrial compliance, has allowed micropollutants to find their way into the environment, posing significant threats to ecosystems. Existing technologies are ill-equipped to eliminate micropollutants. Lengthy periods between the introduction of novel chemicals, recognition of their adverse effects, and the formulation of enforceable regulations have contributed to gaps in protecting water resources, emphasizing the necessity for collaborative efforts among policy institutions. Recent years have witnessed significant changes in water regulations, with agencies such as the EPA intensifying efforts against micropollutants like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Despite identifiable areas for improvement, evolving manufacturing sophistication coupled with overall advancements in regulations have spurred technology development and enhanced the quality of water resources over the past five decades, with a promise of greater strides in the future.

Highlights

1. Emerging environmental contaminants are a growing problem. Micropollutants are low-concentration synthetic chemicals with adverse effects on the ecosystem. They are present in our water resources as a result of ineffective industrial water treatment and poor policy frameworks.

2. Existing treatment and sensing technologies are inadequate. Accounting for technological capabilities and limitations is crucial for the successful implementation of regulations.

3. Collaboration between different regulators is critical to develop and execute effective policy frameworks.

4. Careful integration of treatment technologies and policies is necessary for a comprehensive solution.

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