Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), including pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), are increasingly being detected at low levels in surface water, and there is concern that these compounds may have an impact on aquatic life [1]. Emerging contaminants are known to cause endocrine disrupting activity and other toxic mechanisms, some are recognized as known carcinogens by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)[2].
References:
1. “Contaminants of Emerging Concern including Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products.” https://www.epa.gov/wqc/contaminants-emerging-concern-including-pharmaceuticals-and-personal-care-products. United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2019-08-19.
2. “Emerging Contaminants and Federal Facility Contaminants of Concern.” https://www.epa.gov/fedfac/emerging-contaminants-and-federal-facility-contaminants-concern. United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2019-04-04.
