Comprehensive Assessment of Emerging Contaminants in Drinking Water Supplies: Occurrence, Sources, Human Health Implications, and Regulatory Challenges

Abstract

The problem of emerging contaminants (ECs) in drinking water is one of the most significant public health concerns affecting populations worldwide. These pollutants consist of pharmaceuticals, personal care products, industrial chemicals, and pesticides, which are increasingly detected in global water supplies due to rapid urbanization, industrial growth, and changing consumption patterns. Although ECs generally occur at trace or low concentrations, numerous studies have linked various ECs to adverse health effects, including endocrine disruption, antibiotic resistance, and long-term toxicological risks, thereby emphasizing the need for a comprehensive evaluation of their presence in drinking water systems. This scholarly paper evaluates the occurrence, fate, and potential impacts of emerging contaminants in drinking water supplies. The study adopts a multi-faceted approach, integrating water quality monitoring, laboratory - based analytical data, and environmental modelling techniques to identify the major sources and pathways through which ECs enter drinking water systems. These sources include wastewater discharge, agricultural runoff, industrial effluents, and improper disposal of pharmaceutical products. Furthermore, the paper critically examines the efficiency of existing drinking water treatment technologies in removing emerging contaminants. The findings indicate that while conventional water treatment methods—such as coagulation, sedimentation, and filtration—are effective in eliminating many traditional pollutants, they are often insufficient for the complete removal of ECs. As a result, advanced treatment technologies, including advanced oxidation processes, activated carbon adsorption, and membrane filtration systems, are increasingly necessary to address these persistent contaminants. The paper concludes by proposing enhanced monitoring frameworks and improved treatment strategies aimed at reducing the risks posed by emerging contaminants in drinking water. Strengthening regulatory guidelines, technological innovation, and long-term surveillance programs is essential to ensure the safety and sustainability of drinking water supplies in the face of emerging environmental challenges.