How do emerging contaminants get into wastewater?
The excretion of drugs that are not absorbed by our bodies is generally considered the largest source of pharmaceuticals in wastewater. Flushing of unwanted or expired medications also contributes to pharmaceuticals in wastewater. Chemicals found in personal care products that are applied to our skin can be washed down the drain during showering, as well as during laundering of clothes that come into contact with these products. Other chemicals are associated with household products and can end up in wastewater through washing and laundering. For example, organophosphate flame retardants are often added to furniture, while the perfluorinated compounds PFOS and PFOA are commonly used in stain resistant or nonstick products, including clothing and cookware. Some chemicals can end up in wastewater from industrial operations, or can directly enter the groundwater through runoff.
