Journal of Water Resource Engineering and Pollution Studies ISSN: 3107-8419 (Online)

Authors : Dr. Nisha Verma, Rahul Singh

ABSTRACT : Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Products (PPCPs) have emerged as one of the most concerning classes of micropollutants in aquatic environments. With rapid urbanization, increasing health awareness, and lifestyle-driven consumption, the use of PPCPs has risen exponentially. Unlike conventional pollutants, PPCPs occur in trace concentrations but persistently enter water bodies through municipal sewage, hospital effluents, and agricultural runoff. Their presence in aquatic systems poses significant risks to aquatic organisms, ecological stability, and human health due to bioaccumulation and endocrine disrupting effects. This paper critically examines the sources, environmental impacts, detection techniques, and treatment strategies for PPCPs, while also highlighting regulatory frameworks and sustainable approaches. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the role of advanced treatment methods such as membrane bioreactors, activated carbon adsorption, advanced oxidation processes, and nanotechnology-enabled filtration. By analyzing current challenges and proposing integrated solutions, this paper aims to guide environmental scientists, water managers, and policymakers toward mitigating PPCP pollution for sustainable water management under the AIEEE standard framework.

Keywords : PPCPs, emerging pollutants, wastewater treatment, endocrine disruptors, nanotechnology