Water contamination by pharmaceutical products: constructed wetlands as an alternative treatment solution in arid zones of Mexico

Abstract

In recent decades, the scientific community, aware of the importance in the prevention of pollution as a method to avoid alterations in the ecosystem, has studied the presence and effects of pharmaceutical products in wastewater. Water contamination by pharmaceutical products is a topic of growing interest, considering that they have been found in various water bodies and are not usually monitored by environmental authorities, except in highly developed countries in terms of environmental regulation. This review study addresses the recurrence of these pollutants, their effects on the environment and the use of constructed wetlands, and the benefits of their implementation for wastewater treatment in arid areas. The objective of the present review is focus in forming a research framework for its application in the sustainable development of arid zones and to inform of the advantages and disadvantages represented by the introduction of green techniques for wastewater treatment.