Emerging contaminants in the Himalayan Ecosystem : Understanding the Occurrence, Fate, Distribution and Interactions

As per the definition given by the United States Geological Survey, ECs are “any synthetic or naturally occurring chemical or any microorganism that is not commonly monitored in the environment but has the potential to enter the environment and cause known or suspected adverse ecological and/or human health effects” (USGS, 2017).

This book covers impact of ECs on biodiversity, includes unique coverage on effect on Himalayan region and broadens understanding on antibiotic resistance. Emerging contaminants are a growing concern due to their potential impact on human health and the environment. Emerging contaminants are pollutants that pose potential or deadly hazards to human health and the environment. These contaminants can come from a variety of sources, including industrial activities, agriculture, and waste disposal, and can persist in the environment for a long time. As per the definition given by the United States Geological Survey, ECs are “any synthetic or naturally occurring chemical or any microorganism that is not commonly monitored in the environment but has the potential to enter the environment and cause known or suspected adverse ecological and/or human health effects” (USGS, 2017). In fact, microbial contaminants including antibiotic resistance bacteria/genes are also considered as ECs. Industrial chemicals, pesticides, medicines, surface-active agents, persistent organic compounds, mercury, and personal care items are examples of ECs that are routinely detected in groundwater, municipal wastewater, surface water, drinking water, and food supplies. As people's lifestyles change and new items are developed to improve their lives, a new class of emerging pollutants emerges. Endocrine disruptors, analgesics, antibiotics, hormones, and a variety of other pharmaceutical chemicals, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and antiepileptic drugs, are recent additions to this list of "emerging contaminants." Antibiotics, medicines, personal care items, hormones, and artificial sweeteners are considered emerging pollutants because of their demonstrated or prospective detrimental impacts on aquatic ecosystems and human health.