Micropollutant
Micropollutants are anthropogenic trace substances found in surface waters. They include metallic and organic compounds, that occur in low concentrations in the environment (<0.1 ug/L - 1 ug/L). Because they are not completely degradable, they are very common. In higher concentrations, micropollutants can be toxic to humans. However, even concentrations 104 times below the human threshold can have negative effects on aquatic organisms, soil bacteria, and ecosystems.
Common micropollutants are:
- Drug residues (Penicillin, X-ray contrast medium, Diclofenac)
- Hormones (Bisphenols, Phthalates, Estriol)
- Insecticides and Herbicides (Glyphosate, Mecoprop, Diuron)
- Organic Fluor compounds (from outdoor equipment, nonstick coatings)