The mini review of sustainable urban environment and emerging contaminants

Abstract

This review examines emerging contaminants (ECs) and transitional one in five environments, focusing on air (ground-level and atmosphere), water, soil, and indoor. Key pollutants—volatile organic compounds, microplastics, Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and bioaerosols—demonstrate cross-compartmental persistence, correlating with respiratory diseases, endocrine disruption, and immune risks. Indoor exposure dominates, driven by formaldehyde, microbial agents, and particulate matter. Advanced sensors and AI-enhanced monitoring enable real-time detection yet gaps persist in quantifying risks of novel ECs and scaling interventions. Prioritizing source control in built environments, alongside health-aligned and end point policies, is critical to mitigate exposure surrounded.