A review of recent trends in the removal of emerging contaminants from wastewater using green adsorbents

Abstract

Water pollution caused by emerging contaminants (ECs) is perceived with deep concern nowadays due to their considerable impact and their persistence in wastewater treated using conventional methods. Pharmaceuticals, personal care items, and nanoparticles are examples of ECs that are increasingly utilized. Given that ECs pose a significant risk to human health and the environment, many wastewater treatment techniques have been developed in order to remove them. For instance, advanced wastewater treatments are highly effective at removing ECs but are expensive. Adsorption utilizing green adsorbents is a possible approach for finding a long-term, effective, and affordable solution to this issue. This review explores the efficiency of different green adsorbents applied in order to remove ECs from wastewater.