https://doi.org/10.15255/KUI.2024.015
Published: Kem. Ind. 74 (1-2) (2025) 17–31
Paper reference number: KUI-15/2024
Paper type: Review
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Monitoring and Removal of Pesticides from Wastewater – A Review

B. Babić Visković, S. Morović, D. Ašperger and K. Košutić

Abstract

Pesticides play a key role in modern agriculture by controlling pests, increasing crop yields, and ensuring food safety. However, their widespread use raises environmental concerns due to their persistence and potential adverse effects on ecosystems. Analytical methods for detecting pesticides have evolved to meet the challenges posed by the wide variety of these chemical compounds. Techniques such as gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry offer sensitive and selective detection, enabling effective monitoring of pesticide levels in environmental samples. Pesticides can contaminate the aquatic environment through runoff from agricultural fields, threatening water quality and aquatic life. Various methods for removing pesticides from water sources are being investigated to mitigate these environmental impacts. Advanced oxidation processes, adsorption techniques using activated carbon or nanomaterials, and membrane processes are among the most important strategies for effective pesticide removal from water. Understanding the presence of pesticides in the environment, using robust analytical methods for their detection, and developing effective removal strategies are key steps in mitigating the potential environmental and human health risks associated with pesticide contamination. This review highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research to address the complex challenges posed by pesticides in aquatic ecosystems, and emphasises the need for sustainable agricultural practices and regulatory measures to reduce their environmental impact.

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Keywords

pesticides, environment, chromatography, membrane processes, advanced oxidation processes, adsorption