CONTAMINATED WATERS: UNVEILING THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH IMPACTS OF GLOBAL WATER POLLUTION

Abstract

Water contamination has emerged as a critical global challenge, significantly impacting marine ecosystems and human health. This review highlights the primary sources of water pollution, including industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, untreated sewage, and heavy metal infiltration. The accumulation of these contaminants in marine environments disrupts aquatic biodiversity, compromises ecosystem functions, and introduces toxins into the food web. Marine species suffer physiological and reproductive harm from exposure to heavy metals, microplastics, and persistent organic pollutants. These toxic substances bioaccumulate and biomagnify through trophic levels, posing serious health risks to humans via seafood consumption and water use. In humans, contaminated water is associated with acute and chronic illnesses, including gastrointestinal infections, neurological disorders, and cancer. Moreover, antibiotic-resistant bacteria in polluted waters further complicate public health efforts. This review also explores current mitigation strategies such as advanced wastewater treatment technologies, bioremediation, and policy frameworks aimed at pollution control. Despite these efforts, enforcement and infrastructure remain inadequate in many regions. Integrated and multidisciplinary approaches are essential to address the complex and interconnected nature of aquatic pollution. Public awareness, policy reform, and sustainable practices are critical to safeguarding marine ecosystems and ensuring access to clean water. Continued research and international collaboration are vital to developing innovative solutions that can reduce waterborne pollutants and mitigate their far-reaching consequences. The review underscores the urgency for immediate action to protect both marine life and human populations from the escalating threat of water contamination.