Organic Micropollutants in Environment: Origin and Occurrence

It is relatively recent in the history of human development that societies are facing the challenge of figuring out the fate and occurrence of organic micropollutants (OMPs) in the environment as well as their ecological significance. When these pollutants are discharged continuously without any regulatory measures, even at low concentrations, they may pose an environmental threat. In recent studies, many OMPs have been analyzed for their environmental fates and ecotoxicological effects. Chronic exposure to OMPs may cause ecosystem damage, but acute toxicity is unlikely at environmental concentrations. The purpose of this book chapter is to discuss the role played by OMPs including their origin, types, occurrences, and adverse effects on the environment and human health. Detection and analysis of OMPs in the environment will begin with the development of sensitive and robust methods. If proper measures are not taken by the relevant authorities and scientific community, unwanted consequences may result.