A review on the presence and removal of phthalates from wastewater

Phthalates are plasticisers dangerous to ecosystems and humans.The paper aims to review the exposure of high-concern phthalates resulting from industrial and domestic activities to wastewater and analyse the advanced technologies used in European countries to remove phthalates from wastewater. We drew attention that many phthalates are not completely removed during the conventional wastewater treatment processes and often require an additional complex combination of technologies. Maximum wastewater cleaning efficiency (85–95%) depends on phthalates specificity and is achieved with advanced cleaning methods. However, the solutions to the problems of phthalate’s presence and removal from wastewater are often addressed at the scientific research level. Because of the modernisation and operation of advanced technologies, the cost can increase by 5–25%. As a result, some European countries face financial difficulties implementing advanced technologies. To make progress in cleaning up phthalates, the EU is likely to continue maintaining and upgrading existing wastewater systems.