Work

A review of different removal techniques for pesticides found in European waters identified by the European Environmental Agency

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The widespread use of pesticides in agriculture has led to increasing concern over the contamination of water across Europe. Although many pesticide residues are detected below the maximum residue level (MRL) set by the EU Drinking Water Directive (0.1 µg/L for single substances), several compounds have been consistently reported above these limits, indicating potential risks to both environmental and human health. In February 2024, the European Environmental Agency (EEA) identified four pesticides: imidacloprid, metolachlor, atrazine, and bentazone, as substances exceeding regulatory thresholds at a significant number of monitoring sites. Highlighting the need for new removal techniques that can trap these persistent pesticides. This review explores 94 studies from the past decade, investigating a wide range of removal methods including adsorbents and biosorbents, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), electrochemical oxidation, and biological approaches. Particular attention is given to removal performance, operational feasibility, and compliance with regulatory limits. As it stands, AOPs and electrochemical oxidation currently offer the most promising results, with several studies demonstrating complete removal of targeted pesticides, including final concentrations compliant with the EU’s MRL.

Source: Environmental Science & Policy

DOI: 10.1016/j.envsci.2025.104194

Authors: James Disley, Guzman Gil-Ramirez, Jose Gonzalez-Rodriguez

Institution: University of Lincoln

Language: English

Topic: Advanced oxidation water treatment

Subfield: Water Science and Technology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,250