Table 1:

Classification of CECs.

ContaminantType of emissionsSource
Pharmaceutical residuesBiological active compounds (e.g., antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs) from human and veterinary sourcesUrban (wastewater discharge) and agricultural
Personal-care products (PCPs) and lifestyle compoundsSubstances from personal-care purposes (e.g., shampoos, sunscreens, detergents, cosmetics, etc.) Pharmaceutics for human and veterinary purposes Sunscreens and ultraviolet filters Steroids and hormones Substances such as caffeine and nicotineUrban (wastewater discharge)
Endocrine disruption chemicals (EDCs)Natural or synthetic chemicals found in human and animal foodUrban and agricultural (Natural chemicals found in human and animal food)
Heavy metals PesticidesIndustrial compounds Agricultural substances to control plagues and unwanted vegetationIndustrial Agricultural
Petroleum hydrocarbons and gasoline additivesGasoline additives comprise more than 500 substances to, for example, improve petrol burning efficiency (octane)Industrial
Industrial additives and solventsSome examples are mercury, lead, cadmium, thallium, or silverIndustrial (wastewater discharge)
MicroplasticsPlastic particles (<5mm)Industrial and urban
(wastewater discharge)NanomaterialsSubstances used in sunscreen products, transport, healthcare, materials, energy, and information technologiesIndustrial

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